PHASE I, II, & III PROGRAMS
ENERGY
POWERLINE TECHNOLOGY
The Powerline Technology program fills a current workforce need to scale-up electricity transmission capabilities for renewables and low-carbon energy production. The training provides an opportunity for Wyoming residents to be able to live and work in the state. In coordination with industry partners, the Powerline Technology program meets an emerging industry needs, provides additional workforce opportunities, and addresses critical shortages of line technicians.
FIBER OPTICS
In collaboration with industry partners, the Fiber Optics Specialization complements current Electrical and Instrumental program offerings and fills the workforce shortages that are needed to fulfill the obligation of bringing fiber to various areas of Wyoming. This program aligns with the state initiative to train young residents and provide the education and skills for them to stay in Wyoming to work and live.
SUBSTATION TECHNOLOGY
As Wyoming’s first Substation Technician program, this training fills an industry need and provides local students with the opportunity to stay within the state while gaining education to transition into a high-wage, needed workforce.
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Industry leaders are actively engaged and committed to the program. Students will learn the parts and materials of Substation; the fundamentals of substation work; and how to install, test, and troubleshoot substation equipment; as well as understand power formulas and how to apply them in real-world situations.
Learn more about the Substation Technology Project.
BLUE HYDROGEN
The Blue Hydrogen program will have two components: research and training. It will explore the potential for sustainable development of a hydrogen ecosystem in Wyoming as well as an education and workforce training program in relation to hydrogen energy and emerging hydrogen economy. The training program will be modularized for students from high school through graduate school and working professionals.
ELECTRICAL AND INSTRUMENTATION TECHNOLOGY
This project expands WWCC existing Electrical and Instrumentation Technology program into the Evanston campus, which will increase the numbers of students served and meet workforce needs in this critical field.
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The expansion supports Wyoming’s emerging initiatives, such as nuclear and carbon capture as well as legacy industries.
Learn more about WWCC’s Electrical and Instrumentation Technology program.
NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGY
Western Wyoming Community College is developing the state’s first nuclear technology program. This program has been identified as a local and state need and provides students the necessary training to pursue a career in the nuclear/power generation industry. Students will learn foundational skills and gain practical experience in reactor operations, radiation protection, and safety protocols using industry-standard facilities.
PHASE I KEY METRICS
Wyoming leads the nation as one of the top energy exporters. It is crucial for the state to continue developing a skilled workforce that can further enhance this energy exportation.
During Phase I, Wyoming's first powerline technology program and the integration of fiber optics components have set a remarkable example of successful collaboration between the education sector and industry. This partnership addresses the shortage of technicians in critical roles, and fixes that problem by giving Wyoming residents the resources and education to step into these well-paying and secure positions. Phase II promises exciting developments that will further solidify Wyoming's position in the energy industry.
PHASE II KEY METRICS
Through the WIP, Wyoming is enhancing its educational pathways to address the growing and evolving energy industry, particularly in electrical and instrumentation training. With an aging workforce nearing retirement and the rise of new energy initiatives like nuclear energy and carbon capture, Wyoming has expanded training programs to equip future employees with essential skills. These initiatives highlight Wyoming’s commitment to growing a skilled workforce capable of advancing both traditional and innovative energy sectors.
PHASE III KEY METRICS
Energy has always been central to Wyoming’s economy, and the WIP is preparing its workforce for both traditional and emerging energy sectors. Programs in Powerline Technology and Substation Technology are producing job-ready graduates who are already finding employment with utilities and cooperatives across the state, while Electrical and Instrumentation training continues to expand in response to new energy demands like nuclear power and carbon capture. At the same time, WIP is helping to pioneer the future of energy through the Blue Hydrogen program, which is advancing research and global collaboration to establish Wyoming as a leader in hydrogen production and infrastructure. With the launch of Nuclear Technology programming at Western Wyoming Community College, students now have direct pathways into upcoming sectors within the energy industry.
ENERGY
POWERLINE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Boosting Wyoming's Economy with Western Wyoming Community College's Powerline Technology Program
At Western Wyoming Community College, the Powerline Technology program stands out. It’s the only program of its kind in Wyoming, and significantly contributes to Wyoming's economic growth. By opening doors to jobs within the state and beyond, the Powerline Technology program is enhancing the prosperity of local communities. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce, support local electric utilities and cooperatives, and keep essential services running smoothly.
Key outcomes from the first two years of the program include:
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Over 20 students enrolled
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15 certificates and 5 associate degrees awarded
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15 program completers employed in the field
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10 industry partners
Learn more about the Powerline metrics, outcomes, and budget on the Powerline dashboard.
Program Highlights:
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Comprehensive Curriculum: The program equips students with a strong foundation in the application and theory of distribution and transmission of electrical power. Graduates are fully prepared to enter the workforce with a high-quality education.
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Real-World Experience: Through fieldwork, students operate digger derrick trucks, set and climb poles, install anchors, and string conductors. These hands-on experiences are essential for preparing students for the demands of the industry.
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Class A CDL Requirement: Graduates obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL), enabling them to contribute to the transportation industry and local economies.
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Emphasis on Safety: The focus on safety ensures that graduates can work with high voltage systems in challenging conditions, reducing the risk of accidents and disruptions.
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Adaptability: Graduates are known for their ability to tackle diverse projects in ever-changing conditions and locations, enhancing their value to local employers and the economy.
Are you interested in becoming a part of an industry that not only powers Wyoming’s communities but also fuels the state’s economic success? Learn more or apply at Get Started with Western!
