Governor Kay Ivey approved Lawson State Community College’s Lineworker Training Program as Alabama’s first initiative to qualify under the state’s new Workforce Pell process. The announcement took place in Montgomery on Monday, where Governor Ivey presented a certificate recognizing the program’s approval. Launched by the governor this summer, the Workforce Pell initiative expands federal Pell Grant eligibility to short-term, career-focused training programs designed for high-skill, high-wage, or in-demand occupations.
What it means
The Alabama Department of Workforce (ADOW), working with the Alabama Workforce Board, administers the application and review process for these programs. The Alabama Community College System (ACCS) partners with ADOW to compile data and review applications before submitting them to the state. Lawson State’s application was the first to complete this joint review. Programs must meet specific requirements regarding length, employer demand, credentials, completion rates, job placement outcomes, and institutional history.
Lawson State’s 10-week Lineworker Training Program is offered in partnership with Alabama Power. The curriculum includes more than 400 hours of hands-on training covering pole climbing, power line installation, truck driving, and ladder safety. Recent cohorts have drawn hundreds of applicants, and participants who perform well often receive job offers before completing the training. ADOW Secretary Greg Reed said the announcement turns the promise of Workforce Pell into real opportunity for Alabama workers. Additional ACCS colleges are preparing applications for other high-demand fields, and ADOW will publish a directory of approved programs on its website as approvals are issued.
Key facts
- Lawson State Community College’s Lineworker Training Program is the first in Alabama to receive Workforce Pell approval.
- The program lasts 10 weeks and provides more than 400 hours of hands-on training.
- Training includes pole climbing, power line installation, truck driving, and ladder safety.
- The program is offered in partnership with Alabama Power.
- Recent cohorts have attracted hundreds of applicants.
- Participants often receive job offers before completing the training.
- ADOW will publish a directory of approved programs as approvals are issued.
Source: Governor Kay Ivey news release