Eversource developing future workforce

Press Release

With a high demand for skilled utility workers across the state, Eversource is partnering with Housatonic Community College and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Unions 420 and 457 to prepare the next generation of electrical lineworkers in Connecticut.

The Lineworker Certificate Program provides students valuable training in the electric utility industry and the opportunity to progress into

Eversource’s paid apprenticeship program.

“Our industry is seeing incredible growth, and as we look toward a clean energy future, it’s critical that we continue to ensure we have a well-trained workforce to maintain a safe and reliable electric system while delivering excellent service for our customers,” Eversource President of Connecticut Electric Operations Steve Sullivan stated. “We’ve had great success with our popular certification program at Capital Community College and are excited to expand that collaboration with Housatonic Community College. We value our partnership with the Connecticut State Community College system and know it will help us train highly skilled lineworkers who will have strong employment opportunities after completing the course. ”

Nearly 150 students applied for 15 open spots in the rigorous 13-week certification program.

The students began virtual classroom learning and hands-on training at the Eversource outdoor training complex in Berlin in early March.

Their extensive course work includes electrical theory, CPR, and safety – preparing them for employment with electrical lineworker responsibilities and tasks.

“We are happy to expand this program with Eversource, which started with Capital Community College students in 2021,” said CT State Community College President John Maduko, M.D. “Through partnerships like this, we are able to quickly meet workforce needs in our community while our students prepare for in-demand jobs that pay family-sustaining wages.” Visit Eversource.com for more information on the certification program and to stay updated on the next available class.

Scholarships

Huscher Team

The Huscher Team of William Raveis Real Estate will award a $500 scholarship to a graduating senior from Coginchaug Regional High School who will attend college or a trade school in the fall.

Applicants will submit an essay on “What I Love About My Town and/or Community.” Essays should be at least one page or 500 words, but can be longer. Essays, along with the writer’s name, contact information and posthigh school plans, are due by the end of day Friday, April 28. Essays can be submitted to the CRHS guidance office or emailed to Debbie.Huscher@ Raveis.com.

Durham Fair Association

The Durham Fair Association is offering 10 $2,500 scholarships to high school seniors who live in Durham, Middlefield or Rockfall and will be attending an institution of higher learning in the fall.

Applications are available at the guidance offices at Coginchaug Regional High School, Vinal Regional Technical High School, Xavier High, Mercy High, Middletown High School Vo-Ag Center and Choate Rosemary Hall.

Submission deadline is Friday, April 14. For more information, contact Diane Moore at 860-966-1301.

Rockfall Foundation

The Virginia R. Rollefson Environmental Leadership Scholarship, offered by The Rockfall Foundation since 2018, recognizes outstanding contributions by a high school senior residing in the Lower Connecticut River Valley for carrying out a program, project, or activity that benefits preservation, conservation, restoration or environmental education.

One $1,000 scholarship is awarded yearly to a student who demonstrates leadership and initiative.

Applications must be submitted by Thursday, March 30.

For full details, visit rockfallfoundation.org.

Middlefield Community Center

Bus trip. Wednesday, March 29, shopping at Walmart in Wallingford. Call Middletown Area Transit at 860-3460212, press 2.

Senior Lunch Bunch. Join us Monday, Wednesday and Friday for lunch at the Middlefield Café.

Lunch is provided by CRT for a suggested donation of $3. For more information, call 860-349-7121.

Energy assistance. Applications are being accepted inperson for energy assistance. Call 860-349-7121 to make an appointment.

Food bank. The food bank is open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., by appointment only. For more information, call 860-349-7121.

Dial-a-Ride. Curb to curb service. Cost is $7 for round trip transportation. For details, call Middletown Area Transit, 860-346-0212.

Zoom exercise classes. Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. For Middlefield/Rockfall seniors. To register, call 860-349-7121.

Volunteer. Volunteers are needed to serve lunch. For details, call 860-349-7121.

Tag, plant sale

The Durham Garden Club is planning a Tag and Plant Sale for Saturday, April 15, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 163R Middlefield Road. Rain date is Sunday, April 16.

Tag sale item donations are appreciated. All funds raised support the club’s annual CRHS scholarship and civic beautification work. Email Karen Patterson, tashmoo4me@aol.com.

Raccoon Club

The New Haven Raccoon Club, 853 New Haven Road, Durham, will host its annual ham shoot/youth .22 shoot Sunday, March 26 starting at 9 a.m. Try your luck at winning a ham for Easter din-