Lineworker Program Graduates Seventh Class

St. Petersburg College celebrated the seventh graduating class of its Electrical Lineworker Program on Oct. 31 at the Allstate Center, honoring 17 new graduates who completed the rigorous 14-week training.

Offered in partnership with Duke Energy, Powertown Line Construction, Pinellas County Urban League and Pinellas Technical College, the program prepares students for essential careers in the electric utility industry. Graduates earn multiple industry certifications, including CDL Class A, OSHA 10, CPR, First Aid and Rescue Operations, giving them the skills and credentials to enter one of Florida’s most in-demand career fields.

SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams congratulated the graduates and thanked their families and program partners for their commitment and support.

“Our commitment is to educate students so they can secure better jobs, live better lives and create better communities,” said Williams. “This partnership embodies that mission in action, providing real opportunities for our students while strengthening the local workforce. I want to thank our partners for their leadership and unwavering commitment to workforce development and to changing lives.”

She also praised the graduates for their determination and resilience:

“Graduates, you are amazing. You are rock stars,” she said. “Thank you for your courage, your resilience and for pushing through when things got hard. You are the reason we do what we do.”

Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida President, spoke to the graduates about the legacy of the lineworker profession and the deep connection between Duke Energy and St. Petersburg College.

“This is a special moment,” Seixas said. “The men and women who complete this program represent the next generation of lineworkers, the heart of our company and our industry. This program started here at St. Petersburg College and has become a model for other community colleges across Florida. We’re proud of our long history in St. Petersburg and proud to stand alongside SPC in preparing skilled workers who will keep our communities safe and powered.”

Graduate Rebecca Rodriguez shared how the program transformed her both professionally and personally.

“I’ve worked in construction for years, but this program challenged me in new ways,” Rodriguez said. “It’s not just about learning technical skills; it’s about building discipline, confidence and perseverance. Our instructors truly care about our success and that made all the difference. I’m proud to show my kids what it means to work hard, push through challenges and know there’s no glass ceiling on what we can achieve.”

The Electrical Lineworker Program continues to be one of SPC’s most successful workforce training initiatives, helping address a critical need for skilled utility professionals across Florida. Through its strong partnerships and career-focused approach, the program not only changes lives but also powers communities: one graduate at a time.