Innovative Training Program Elevates Safety and Skills at V.I. Water and Power Authority with $750,000 Grant

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) is taking a significant step forward with the introduction of a groundbreaking lineman training program aimed at enhancing both the skill set and safety protocols of its workforce. This initiative was highlighted at WAPA’s recent Governing Board meeting by Chief Operating Officer Ashley Bryan, with the training being conducted by the esteemed Northwest Lineman College (NLC) and supported by a generous $750,000 grant from the Department of Interior.

Northwest Lineman College, renowned for its comprehensive and demanding curriculum, is setting a new standard for lineman education. “The rigor and depth of the training provided by Northwest Lineman College are unparalleled compared to any previous programs we have engaged in,” remarked Ms. Bryan. The training will feature an advanced hot line school segment, demanding absolute precision from trainees on all procedures involving energized lines.

Ms. Bryan shed light on the necessity of this program, noting the inefficiency of WAPA’s existing three-year apprenticeship scheme which typically extends to five years before employees can safely handle energized work. “This timeframe is not in line with industry standards,” she observed, expressing optimism that the new training will better align job specifications with the practical acquisition of skills, thereby fast-tracking the proficiency of WAPA’s workforce in critical job roles.

Moreover, the program is set to propel WAPA to new heights of operational excellence, as stated by Ms. Bryan. Josh Jones, the Director of Safety, also emphasized the importance of shifting away from a culture of high risk tolerance to one where safety is paramount. He believes the training will be instrumental in dismantling unsafe practices and reducing the incidence of workplace injuries.

The announcement of this training initiative comes in the wake of a recent injury incident at WAPA in January, highlighting the urgent need for improved safety measures. According to Andrew Smith, the Executive Director, the program is designed to bolster linemen’s capabilities in recognizing and reporting hazards, thereby minimizing the risk of future injuries.

Additionally, Ms. Bryan highlighted the program’s role in modernizing WAPA’s operations as it starts integrating renewable energy sources and underground infrastructure into the territory’s electrical grid, marking a significant advancement in the utility’s commitment to innovation and safety.