Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) has trained its line and utility workers at the Hedge Training Facility in Sacramento, California, for more than 50 years. Three years ago, the California Department of Industrial Relations approved SMUD’s apprenticeship standards, opening the door to launch the SMUD Power Academy and partner with the Division of Apprenticeship Standards.
The Sacramento Power Academy expands SMUD's training approach to train the next generation of utility workers from across state and country.
Next year, SMUD is offering a one-day comprehensive climbing course including fall protection and necessary skills to quickly and safely ascend and descend wood utility poles. Climbing skills are the foundation of line work, and the Sacramento Power Academy is renowned for its comprehensive, hands-on training approach. Fall protection is incorporated into all climbing practice, along with the ancillary skills required to ascend quickly and safely, maneuver and work aloft, and descend expertly.
The course will cover:
- Preparation and safety
- Climbing equipment
- Climbing poles and maneuvering aloft
- Knots, handline and other rigging basics
- Line materials and components
SMUD offers the Powering Apprentices Award, a special scholarship program awarding full tuition to selected students. Applicants must be 18 years or older and live within the SMUD service territory. Awards will be based on merit and financial need. Send an email to get more information.
Register for the program here.
