The Electrical Distribution Technology (EDT) program provides training in the basic skills, knowledge, and abilities applicants would need to apply for skilled craft positions in the electric utility industry. The program is intended to produce candidates who possess the skills to safely and confidently perform the manual tasks associated with electrical utility work while also building the foundational skills that will allow them to advance further in their careers.
The EDT program consists of a fast-paced and challenging curriculum that incorporates electrical theory an practical application of safety concepts and established work practices in the Overhead, Underground, and Substation Maintenance crafts. This is a full-time program where students will attend classes Monday through Friday. Upon completing the 1-year course, they'll receive a Certificate in Electrical Distribution Technology.
DLC will pay 100% of tuition for all successful applicants in the 2023-2024 class. There are also two (2) paid internships at the end of each semester as part of the program. Students also have the opportunity to obtain a free 'Class A' CDL license upon passing the driver's test.
Upon graduation, students who excelled during the program and demonstrated the desired aptitude and attitude will be considered for employment with DLC through its standard hiring practices.
DLC Student Selection Process (you must be recommended or pass at each step in order to advance to the next in the process):
- Application - You must apply to this posting and submit a resume to be considered for the program. Other submissions outside of this process will not be accepted.
- CAST Test - Prospective students must achieve a minimum passing score on the standardized Edison Electrical Institute (EEI) Construction and Skilled Trades Test (CAST) assessing. abilities in Graphical Arithmetic, Mechanical Concepts, Reading for Comprehension, and Mathematical Usage. Below is a link to the practice CAST test with an unlimited number of tries to get familiar with the concepts:
-
Wood Pole Tryout - Candidates that pass the CAST test will be invited to complete a 3-day (7:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.) tryout where they will receive instruction and be assessed on basic tool identification, knot tying, pole climbing, and introduction to confined space. Candidates must receive a passing score in order to advance in the selection process.
.jpg?sfvrsn=9d6ea842_0 "EDT_CareerDay_2022-16--Thumb (2)")
- Drug & Background Screens - Prior to the Wood Pole Tryout, prospective students must pass a background check and drug screen (both urine and hair follicle).
- Interview - Prospective students will participate in a 30 minute face-to-face professional interview with Duquesne Light leadership.
First Step:
- Register for an EDT Exploration Day
Taking place the first Friday of each month November-February 9:00 am-12:00 pm
During this visit, prospective students will:
- Receive an overview of what it takes to become a lineworker.
- Meet with current lineworkers, trainers, apprentices and EDT students.
- See a live demonstration.
- Receive an introduction to pole climbing and wood pole school tryout requirements.
Watch this EDT Video to learn more from our EDT trainers and graduates.