Avangrid and UI Launch Workforce Development Initiative in New Haven and Bridgeport, Creating Career Pathways in the Utility Industry

In partnership with UWUA Local 470-1, CT State-Housatonic, and The WorkPlace seventeen participants from Environmental Justice communities complete hands-on training in electrical line construction


For photos and videos of the graduation click HERE


TRUMBULL, Conn. — November 22, 2024  — United Illuminating (UI) and its parent company Avangrid (NYSE: AGR), in collaboration with the Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) Local 470-1, CT State Community College - Housatonic Campus, and The WorkPlace, recently celebrated the graduation of seventeen participants from the inaugural Introduction to Overhead Line Work program. This hands-on, three-week program provided individuals from New Haven and Fairfield Counties with essential training in electric line construction, including safety protocols, pole climbing, and live-line work. The program is part of a broader initiative to create sustainable career pathways in the skilled trades, with a focus on individuals from Environmental Justice communities.

"We are committed to strengthening our local workforce, particularly in Environmental Justice communities," said Frank Reynolds, President and CEO of UI. "By recruiting from these areas, we’re creating meaningful career opportunities while investing in the long-term sustainability of the local electric grid. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with CT State- Housatonic and The WorkPlace to further develop a skilled workforce for the future."

Recruitment for the Introduction to Overhead Line Work program began in late September, targeting residents of New Haven, Bridgeport, and Fairfield. Information sessions outlined the program’s application process, requirements, and hands-on training. The program received over 100 applications, with 50 candidates advancing to a physical aptitude test. Seventeen participants were ultimately selected for the program.

"At Avangrid, we are committed to our workforce being representatives -and representative- of the communities we serve " said Ignacio Estella, Senior Vice President, DEI, Talent, and Innovation. "We will continue to connect with local job seekers interested in the trades, with hands-on training action to help build careers with Avangrid, local talent for the benefit of all."

The graduates were recognized at a ceremony on November 15 at UI’s Trumbull Training Yard, where they demonstrated the technical skills they had acquired, including installing transformers, setting fuses, and climbing utility poles. Each graduate received a certificate of completion, as well as credentials in AHA Heartsaver® First Aid CPR AED, OSHA10, and CDL permit test preparation.

“This program is an essential tool for preparing the next generation of lineworkers,” said Moses Rams, President of UWUA Local 470-1. “The commitment and skill these participants have shown will ensure they are ready to safely perform operations critical to the safety and reliability of our electric grid. We look forward to continuing this work to strengthen the utility workforce for years to come.”

In addition to technical training, graduates will receive support from The WorkPlace, in building essential non-technical skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. The program will also provide tailored job search support, helping participants develop resumes, prepare for interviews, and increase their job readiness.

“This partnership is a great example of how community collaboration can create long-term, meaningful career opportunities,” said Christine Pariseau, Senior Manager of Regional Operations at UI. “The Introduction to Overhead Line Work program not only supports individuals seeking to enter the skilled trades but also helps to ensure the utility industry has the talent needed to meet the demands of the future.”

The collaboration between Avangrid, UI, UWUA Local 470-1, CT State-Housatonic, and The WorkPlace is a powerful step toward building a more inclusive and well-prepared workforce in Connecticut’s utility sector.

"As advocates for workforce development, we value our partnership with Avangrid, UI, CT State-Housatonic and UWUA Local 470-1 in strengthening the local utility workforce," said Joseph Carbone, President and CEO of The WorkPlace. "As the electrical industry evolves and the demand for clean energy grows, we are committed to preparing the local workforce to meet these challenges. Our goal is to develop a skilled, adaptable workforce that can not only meet today’s needs but also thrive in the utility sector of tomorrow."

“CT State-Housatonic is proud to partner with Avangrid, UI, UWUA Local 470-1, and The WorkPlace to equip our workforce with the skills and certifications needed to support the growth of the electric industry, said Dr. Patricia Benson, CEO of CT State-Housatonic. “We commend the seventeen participants who completed the program and look forward to seeing them pursue careers in the utility industry, strengthening our skilled trades workforce and contributing to the long-term economic success of the region.”

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