McKenzie Electric lineworker achieves journeyman status

After starting as a Cooperative Work Experience (CWE) student for McKenzie Electric, attending lineworker school, and nearly five years of on-the-job training and independent study, Riley Headings has achieved journeyman lineworker status and is fully qualified to take on the vital responsibilities of ensuring safe and reliable service for McKenzie Electric’s members. Headings was one of 14 apprentices to complete the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) apprenticeship program in 2024. Graduates received their journeyman lineworker certificates during a Jan. 9 awards ceremony held in conjunction with the Apprenticeship, Training and Safety Conference.

“Riley picks things up quick and is consistently a hard worker,” says Bill Hanson, McKenzie Electric line manager. “Without lineworkers like him and the rest of the 17-man crew, keeping the power flowing that runs our homes, businesses and communities wouldn’t be possible. We’re proud to have Riley on our team.”

Completing the lineworker apprenticeship program is no small feat. The structured training program is designed to teach the skills and knowledge needed to be a successful lineworker. Through on-the-job training and independent study, apprentices learn how to safely construct, maintain and operate the power grid. To graduate, they must complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of study.

“Investing in comprehensive training is about more than meeting industry standards – it's about protecting lives, maintaining reliability and keeping our communities connected to the power they rely on every day," says NDAREC Executive Vice President and General Manager Josh Kramer. "Through their support of NDAREC’s apprenticeship programs, North Dakota’s electric cooperatives are helping to produce the next generation of line professionals and building generational greatness in our industry.”

McKenzie Electric Cooperative is committed to providing employees with ongoing education and training, ensuring the highest levels of service, safety and reliability for our members. In addition to participating in the lineworker apprenticeship program, lineworkers attend annual training sessions to learn and refine the techniques necessary to safely work on energized and nonenergized power lines.