As a self-described “high-energy guy,” Derrick DeHaney’s turning to Laurel Ridge Community College Workforce Solutions’ newest high-demand training program makes perfect sense. The Strasburg resident was in the college’s first cohort of Power Line Worker Program graduates in December.
He was actually interested in Workforce Solutions’ CDL program, but learned the Power Line Program was starting, so he watched a few videos about it and read up on it. As part of the program, DeHaney earned his CDL, plus an additional six industry-recognized credentials: heavy equipment operator, power industry fundamentals, power line worker level 1, Virginia Department of Transportation work zone flagger-intermediate, OSHA 10 and first aid/CPR.
“I’m a high-energy guy,” he said. “I’ve always worked outside – in construction. I’ve always worked with my hands, and the Power Line Worker Program was just something that I knew I would immediately be in love with. And, it was really love at first sight when I started doing it.”
As a 2009 graduate of Sherando High School, DeHaney said he was one of “the older guys” in the first cohort of Power Line students. But, he has always been athletic and conditioned, and his previous construction work meant he’s used to working outside in the elements.
DeHaney said he liked working with each of his instructors.
“The heavy equipment class was awesome,” he said. “CDL was awesome and so was our Power Line instructor Jimmy Powers. He turned us into pros within four weeks. He was patient with us. I can’t thank him enough. He was top tier. I’m also very grateful for (program manager) AnnaJane Whitacre and her staff and to Laurel Ridge just for offering this program. Staff have gone above and beyond to make sure we succeed.”
DeHaney recently started working for Dominion Energy, which was his top choice. He has always wanted to serve others and he finds fulfillment in playing such a vital role in keeping people safe and warm in their homes.
“I’m really excited to just be a part of an electric company and being able to say I’m the reason why people’s power is up and running, or restored from an event, whether it’s a snowstorm, or hurricane, or whatever it is,” DeHaney said. “Just being able to have that satisfaction that I’m helping others. I just can’t imagine that any of us can survive without electrical power.”
Prior to starting the program, DeHaney was working three jobs – maintenance work for a hotel and apartment complex, weekends doing security at night clubs, and construction for a temp agency. He is amazed to be starting his new career in such a short period of time
“It was sometimes three, but all the time it was two jobs at a time to make sure I had the right amount of funds in my pocket,” DeHaney explained. “I have two young kids. They depend on their father to be there for them. Joining this program has changed my life so much. I’m now able to have a career, and I’m proud I’m in a career I truly want to be in. And, 14 weeks is way better than four years of schooling. This is a legitimate career, making good money and with good benefits.”
Power Line Workers’ average starting pay is $70,000. The program’s tuition is $16,600, but thanks to the G3 program, all costs are covered for eligible students. Learn more about the program and how to attend an information session by visiting laurelridgeworkforce.com/powerline.
Laurel Ridge Community College was known as Lord Fairfax Community College until June 2022. For consistency purposes, the college will be referenced as Laurel Ridge going forward.