Event Profile

Spring Lineworker Boot Camp

Date(s):
March 3 — 6, 2025
Venue:
Kootenai Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Description:

Who Should Attend: 

Line crew supervisors and managers, crew foremen, lineworkers, line apprentices, and substation workers. 

Related Events:  

Fall Lineworker Boot Camp, Nov. 3-6, 2025

Overview: 

This new boot camp condenses seven popular courses from our Lineworker Skills Series into a focused, four-day program. During the boot camp, you will gain valuable knowledge and practical skills in critical areas to enhance your safety, efficiency, and confidence on the job. The program combines theory and hands-on sessions to provide a comprehensive learning experience.

Courses in the boot camp include: 

DOT Truck/Trailer Inspections
This session emphasizes compliance with Department of Transportation safety standards and regulations during pre-trip inspections. You will learn to enhance safety through thorough inspection protocols, ensuring vehicles meet operational requirements and mitigating risks before hitting the road. Classroom instruction will focus on the details of compliance and practical application of DOT standards.

Arc-Flash Hazard Identification and Compliance
This session dives into Chapter 1 of the NFPA 70E Standard and selected annexes, supplemented by the National Electrical Safety Code. You will explore foundational rules, electrical best practices, and how the national standards are interpreted to enhance workplace safety. The classroom environment will provide an interactive space for understanding arc-flash hazards and the importance of compliance.

Cable Splicing and Termination
A perfect blend of art and science, this hands-on session covers essential cable splicing and termination techniques. You will receive valuable skills to improve efficiency and reliability in the field. 

Phasing and Testing
This half-day session will allow you to apply your knowledge of phasing and testing in a controlled, hands-on training environment. By reinforcing essential phasing and testing skills, this course ensures you will be better prepared to ensure proper phase alignment and system reliability during live operations.

Lineworker Rigging
Rigging is a critical skill often underestimated by lineworkers yet vital for safety and operational success. This hands-on session focuses on developing proper rigging techniques, improving safety awareness, and addressing common challenges encountered in linework.

Insulate and Isolate
Working around energized lines and equipment requires expertise in insulate/isolate methods and safety practices. This classroom-based refresher will cover essential concepts and work methods, ensuring you are equipped to work safely and effectively in energized environments. 

Transformer Basics
Transformers are a cornerstone of linework. This session focuses on pole-mounted and underground residential distribution transformers. Participants will learn to identify specific safety concerns, evaluate equipment conditions, and perform basic repairs. Classroom instruction will ensure a thorough understanding of transformer operations and troubleshooting techniques.

Instructors: 

Michael Stremel, Affiliated Consultant, Institute for Safety in Powerline Construction 
James McGowan, Affiliated Consultant, Institute for Safety in Powerline Construction

Schedule: 

Registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. Pacific Time on the first day, and the boot camp will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. all four days. Lunch and refreshments will be provided each day.

Location: 

Kootenai Electric Cooperative 
9014 W. Lancaster Road
Rathdrum, ID 83858 
(208) 765-1200 

Suggested Hotels: 

Red Lion Templin’s on the River 
414 E. 1st St.
Post Falls, ID 83854 
(208) 773-1611 
 
Holiday Inn Express & Suites 
2300 W. Seltice Way 
Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 
(208) 667-3100 

Fees: 

Utility Member Early Bird (extended to 3/3/2025): $2,770 
Utility Member Standard: $2,845

Associate Member Early Bird (extended to 3/3/2025): $4,155 
Associate Member Standard: $4,230 

Non-Member Early Bird (extended to 3/3/2025): $5,540 
Non-Member Standard: $5,615 

Canadian utility members, please contact registration@nwppa.org for pricing and to register.

Note: Organizations that register a group of employees will receive every fifth registration for free. For example, if you register five employees, you only pay for four; register 10 employees, you only pay for eight; and so on. There is nothing additional you need to do to receive this discount.

Cancellation Policy: 

For in-person events: cancellations at least 30 days prior to the event will receive a full refund; within 15-29 days there will be a $100 fee; and within 1-14 days or no show, the charge will be 100% of the registration fee.

When possible, please send a substitute instead of canceling; NWPPA does not charge a fee for substitutions. To request a refund, please contact us at registration@nwppa.org or (360) 254-0109.

Continuing Hours:

This boot camp qualifies for 24 continuing hours. Certificates are issued upon full completion of the boot camp. 

For More Information:

To find out more about this event, or to learn about other events, view the Training and Event Catalog.