PPL Electric Utilities hosts SUN Tech students for industry tour

Sunbury, Pa. — Hands-on demonstrations by PPL Electric Utilities employees helped students from SUN Area Technical Institute in Sunbury get a feel for everyday job tasks in the real world.

On May 3, PPL Electric welcomed 19 students and faculty from SUN Tech's Electrical Systems Technology and Electrical-Mechanical Technology programs to their Sunbury Service Center.

Employees from PPL Electric’s safety, engineering, public affairs, and operations teams spoke to the students about their roles and career opportunities. Lineworkers and electricians provided hands-on demonstrations for SUN Tech students, teaching them about utility poles, climbing, safety procedures, and how to operate a bucket truck. The visit also included a tour of an energized substation.

“These activities give students the opportunity to experience the different careers within PPL Electric and the energy industry,” said Van Reichelderfer, an Electrical Systems Technology instructor at SUN Tech.

“From lineworkers and substation electricians to design engineers, these interactions are invaluable as they consider their choices after SUN Tech,” Reichelderfer added.

PPL Electric employs more than 350 lineworkers, according to media relations at PPL Electric Utilities. "This number represents employees in all aspects of the lineworker progression, from Helper through Lineman Leader," Damon Turbitt said.

Positions within PPL Electric require a variety of education and skill level. "Our field engineer position requires a four-year engineering degree across a variety of disciplines, including electrical, mechanical and civil. We also offer various field technician positions for career-seekers with a two-year degree or specialized training or certification and entry-level options not requiring any additional education or training," Turbitt said.

PPL also offers apprenticeship programs for lineworkers, which don’t require previous training or education but must pass pre-screening testing.

The partnership is part of an ongoing relationship between PPL Electric and SUN Tech that began in 2014.