June 6, 2025 • Business News

Celebrating a Decade of Powering Careers: El Paso Electric and Doña Ana Community College Mark 10 Years of the Electrical Lineworker Program

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico (June 6, 2025) – El Paso Electric (EPE) and Doña Ana Community College (DACC) are proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of their joint Electrical Lineworker Program. The program has powered countless career opportunities in the utility industry and strengthened the regional workforce. In the past decade, EPE has hired 50 graduates from the program, reinforcing the critical role this collaboration plays in building a safe, skilled and resilient energy workforce.

Launched in response to the growing demand for qualified electrical lineworkers, the one-year pre-apprenticeship program equips students with the technical knowledge and hands-on experience needed to safely install and maintain electrical power infrastructure. From climbing utility poles and operating bucket trucks to mastering underground linework, graduates leave the program prepared to tackle the challenges of the electrical industry head-on.

“This program is a launchpad for a rewarding career,” said Kelly Tomblin, President and CEO of EPE. “Our continued investment in this partnership is a testament to the incredible talent unlocked by DACC and the essential role these individuals play in keeping the lights on across our region.”

“Our partnership with EPE has created a clear pathway for students to enter a high-demand, high-skill profession,” said Dr. Mónica Torres, Chancellor of Doña Ana Community College. “This program exemplifies what’s possible when education and industry come together with a shared vision—empowering our students, supporting our communities and strengthening the workforce.”

Through the program, students gain in-depth knowledge of AC/DC theory, transformers, line construction and occupational safety. With a dedicated outdoor training field, the program emphasizes critical skills like pole climbing, teamwork and field problem-solving, ensuring graduates are workforce ready.

As EPE and DACC look ahead to the next decade, the program remains a cornerstone in meeting the growing needs of the energy sector. For more information about the Electrical Lineworker Program, visit dacc.nmsu.edu.