FirstEnergy is partnering with Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) Local 102 to pilot a Pennsylvania line worker apprentice program early this year.

The company launched a similar successful pilot program for Ohio apprenticeships in 2022. The initiatives are designed to enhance and expand our existing line worker training program while increasing staffing levels at our facilities.

“Apprenticeships are a viable, sustainable way for our line shops to flourish with hometown hires committed to living out FirstEnergy’s core values of Safety, Performance Excellence and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion,” said Alex Patton, director, Greensburg Operations.

Four West Penn Power line shops – Boyce, Charleroi, Jefferson and Washington – have been identified as starting locations for the Pennsylvania pilot.

“The ability to partner with FirstEnergy on this initiative presents an exciting growth opportunity to improve and strengthen both organizations,” said Travis Beck, president, UWUA System Local 102.

Recruitment of local candidates is scheduled to start this month. Once selected, participants will begin evaluations in the spring and officially enter the program come summer. All apprentices will be hired as full-time, paid employees at the line worker C level.

During their apprenticeships, new hires will learn foundational line worker skills from seasoned, veteran instructors with an emphasis on pole climbing, knot-tying and safety protocols taught in classroom and hands-on settings.

We’ll update employees on the status of Pennsylvania’s apprentice program as it is rolled out – and keep you informed if additional plans are made to expand existing programs or add new ones in other states.