CMP Welcomes New Lineworker Apprentice Class
The class of 10 will start their years-long training that, if successful leads to 1st Class lineworker role.
Augusta, ME — June 23, 2025 —Central Maine Power (CMP), a subsidiary of Avangrid Inc., is proud to welcome a new lineworker apprentice class that is starting their lineworker training today at the company’s training facility in Farmingdale, Maine. Apprentices who successfully complete a multi-year program while working full-time at CMP, will become 1st Class Line workers. That is a role critical to building and maintaining Maine’s energy grid and restoring power.
This program starts with three weeks at the Farmingdale facility where apprentices will learn about the company’s map and radio systems. Hands-on training also takes place including climbing utility poles, operating bucket trucks and beginning to learn to work with live electrical systems.
Apprentices will then move on to one of the company’s 12 service center throughout Maine where they will continue training in the field, helping experienced crews. CMP’s apprenticeship program is designed to incorporate both classroom learning with on-the-job training under the guidance of veteran line crews and trainers.
“For over 125 years, CMP has proudly trained generations of lineworkers who power Maine’s communities, supporting union skilled trades jobs,” said Eric Sutton, Vice President of Electric Operations at CMP. “We’re thrilled to welcome this new class to begin their training and careers at CMP. By training these recent graduates, we’re investing in Maine’s future. These local jobs are critical to strengthening our grid, ensuring it’s more resilient against extreme weather and prepared for growth.”
“This program is the gateway to a lifelong, hands-on career in a vital skilled trade. Our apprentices will learn everything from climbing poles to safely operating a bucket truck, all while gaining the knowledge and experience needed to keep Maine’s communities powered,” said Steve Cookson, CMP’s Technical Trainer. “These are good, Maine-based jobs that offer competitive wages, stability, and real opportunities for growth. We’re proud to help shape the next generation of lineworkers who will keep our communities powered and growing across our state.”
CMP partners with local institutions and unions to support lineworker apprenticeship and training programs that prepare individuals for careers in the energy utility industry. One of the key training hubs in Maine is the Electrical Lineworker Technology Program at Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) in Fairfield. 2025 marks the seventh year of continued partnership between KVCC and CMP to directly onboard graduates of the college’s program. The majority of this year’s CMP apprentice class are graduates of KVCC’s program.