EL PASO, Texas (May 1, 2024) – El Paso Electric (EPE) and Western Technical College (Western Tech) are pleased to announce a new partnership for the Lineworker Certification Program. 14 students were selected to receive a scholarship from EPE, marking the commencement of their transformative journey towards becoming talented lineworkers.

Scheduled to commence on May 6, 2024, the three-month Lineworker Certification Program represents a significant investment in developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting the evolving demands of the energy sector. Hosted at EPE's state-of-the-art Operations and Safety Training Center, the program will provide participants with hands-on training and theoretical knowledge essential for success in the field.

“EPE is proud to invest in the education and development of the future lineworkers who will build and maintain the infrastructure needed for economic growth in our region,” said Kelly Tomblin, EPE President and CEO. “The Western Tech Lineworker Certification Program underscores EPE's commitment to developing and keeping local talent while driving innovation within the energy sector. We want to thank our partners, TRC Companies, Workforce Solutions Borderplex and the Electric Company Charitable Foundation, for their aligned vision and support.”

“Western Tech’s strategic partnership with El Paso Electric is energizing the future of our community by empowering individuals with the skills and knowledge to safely and efficiently power our borderplex community,” said Brad Kuykendall, Western Tech CEO. “Together, we're illuminating pathways to success for aspiring electrical lineworkers, and paving the way for a brighter tomorrow for generations to come. We want to thank the wonderful team at EPE for their leadership, guidance, and support in launching this new and exciting program. We also want to give a special thanks to Workforce Solutions Borderplex and the Electric Company Charitable Foundation for their immense support.”

About El Paso Electric

El Paso Electric is an energy provider that is engaged in generation, transmission and distribution service to power approximately 460,000 customers in a 10,000 square mile area from Hatch, New Mexico to Van Horn, Texas. Major cities in the service region include El Paso, Texas and Las Cruces, New Mexico.

About Western Technical College

Western Technical College is a fourth-generation, locally-owned college, proudly serving the El Paso community since 1970. This is the place where you can take your passion and turn it into a career you love. Here, you’ll be surrounded by classmates who share your passion and are on the same path. Our caring instructors and staff are totally dedicated to your success and will be with you every step of the way. Think about it: the few months of hard work that you invest in your education today will set the stage for a bright future tomorrow.