Del Mar College Foundation recognizes NEC for contribution toward purchase of bucket truck for new lineworker certificate pathway as part of Electrician Program
Sept. 21 acknowledgement included demonstration of hands-on training students will receive when certificate pathway launches in January 2027
Article by Melinda Eddleman
When the power goes out, you need them––lineworkers. Their role requires extensive hands-on training needed to get the job done
Nueces Electric Cooperative, known as NEC, is among utility providers in the area. And NEC leadership understands the need for a well-trained workforce in this line of work and has donated to the Del Mar College (DMC) Foundation a $12,500 gift toward the purchase of a “bucket truck” to prepare students who choose a career path to become a lineworker through the college’s new certificate program that begins in the spring.
On Monday, Sept. 21, the Del Mar College Foundation and academic leadership recognized NEC’s $12,500 gift toward the purchase of a 2016 Dodge Ram 5500 truck equipped with a 2016 Altec 41-foot bucket. The outdoor event included a check presentation and then a demonstration of how the bucket truck will be used to train DMC students, including how to use the vehicle as part of hands-on training, including positioning and operational skills needed for utility distribution work.
Developing the next generation of skilled professionals begins with meaningful opportunities to learn. At Nueces Electric Cooperative, we understand the importance of training with the tools and equipment used in the field. We’re proud to support Del Mar College in creating an environment where students can build their skills, develop a strong foundation in safety, and gain a firsthand understanding of the work that keeps our communities powered.
“NEC’s investment gives Del Mar College students the opportunity to train with the same equipment they will encounter in the field,” added Matthew Busby, vice president of development & donor advising and executive director of the DMC Foundation. “This generous support will help prepare skilled professionals for essential utility careers while strengthening the workforce pipeline throughout our region.”
The bucket truck will allow students pursuing the lineworker pathway to gain critical hands-on experience by learning proper setup, equipment inspection, positioning, safe operation and how to perform elevated utility work. The truck will also serve the college’s Diesel and Heavy Equipment Programs, which are with the Air Conditioning, Aviation & Automotive Department along with the Electrician Program.
Our Diesel and Heavy Equipment majors will gain hands-on experience, too, by maintaining, diagnosing and servicing the truck, engine, hydraulic system, aerial equipment and other components. So, while the Lineworker students learn how to safely operate the equipment in the field, our Diesel and Heavy Equipment students will learn how to keep that equipment operating and maintained.
Creacy also noted that NEC serves as an active member of the department’s Advisory Committee, helping to identify employers’ expectations among the college’s graduates entering the utility distribution industry. The cooperative also fills a critical role in determining needed equipment, curriculum improvements and career pathways that move the department’s students toward excellence and successful careers upon entering the workforce.
Del Mar College empowers students to achieve their dreams. The college offers quality programs, individual attention, outstanding instruction through faculty with real-world experience and affordability to credit and noncredit students in Corpus Christi and across the South Texas Coastal Bend region. Nationally recognized while locally focused, Del Mar College provides students programs that match current or emerging career opportunities in the area. Whether students are interested in the fine arts, sciences, business, occupational or technical areas, students get the education they need for the future they want at Del Mar College.