Mountain States Lineman or Apps.

[swetngblts]

I have an interview with MSLCAT next week.

Last Monday was our first day of class at Northwest Lineman College here in Oroville, CA. Friday i got the letter stating my interview date with MSLCAT. At first my thoughts were to call and cancel the interview as i want to finish the class and graduate here at NLC. I feel NLC will be a great learning experience, a great stepping stone into the trade, great resume builder, and could lead to many great opportunities.

On the other hand, MSLCAT could be the foot in the door for an apprenticeship. So, i booked my flight and car rental and i'll be on my way out there to interview. I figure it's at the least good for learning the interview process as i will also be interviewing in June for the NW line and CalNev in the near future.

I called the lady out there to set up the interview time and ask her a few questions. One of the questions i asked her was "How many apps. are out of work and on the books?" She replied that she could not give out that information. Another question which i can't remember she replied in the same manner. So my questions for you guys out there are as follows.

What is the work outlook looking like out there for an apprentice? I know Spring is here and it should be picking up soon.

Does MSLCAT have an aptitude test? Need to do a quick brush up on math if they do.

Do you know how many apps. are on the books waiting to be called out for work? I'm trying to get a feel for the wait time as i'm hoping to finish here at NLC. I know it could depend on many factors such as how well i interview to how much work is out there.

Anthing else you guys can clue me in on would be appreciated.

[Meat]

NLC and the likes are pre-apprentice training courses to introduce you to the trade(IMO).I'm not familiar with Montana but the industry is screaming for lineman so I'm sure your work outlook will be good wherever you go. I would suggest you take the apprenticeship if it is offered but they may let you finish and then bring you on.Would be good for deal for you and them.Good luck,Meat.

[swetngblts]

Well, i think the interview went okay. I'm pretty sure i bombed a few questions and may have nailed a few questions. Rambled on one or two of the questions which probably hurt me. Regardless of the outcome it was a great learning experience for me. I'll be better prepared for future interviews. I've never been in that type of interview before.

I'll call next week to find out how i scored.

[co lineman]

I went throught the MLSCT program more then a few years ago and learned some great things and worked with some great guys..Wouldn't change anything if I could..I have been with a utility for about a year so really don't know about the work picture but I do know if you were a descent hand and tried hard the companies owuld do what they could do to keep you employed..Just go in with an open mind and the willingness to work and you will go far in the outside line work...