For aspiring line workers in Williamson and Dickson Counties, the path to a stable, high-paying career has become a reality—thanks to scholarship support from United Way. Through our Transformation Fund, each student received $4,750 to cover tuition for the Pre-Apprentice Linework Academy at Columbia State Community College, a program designed to equip students with the hands-on skills needed for success in the utility industry.
In just seven weeks, these students gained the qualifications sought by Middle Tennessee’s utility companies, culminating in a showcase of their abilities at the annual Lineworker Mini Rodeo.
The average salary for a line worker apprentice in Tennessee is now $26.43/hour, or $54,974, with many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location and years of experience. With an 80-85% job placement rate and earning potential that only grows with experience, this partnership between United Way and Columbia State is opening doors to a life-changing trade—one that empowers individuals and strengthens our community.
Meet Mason
Mason standing third from left.
When Williamson County student Mason and his mother Tammy went to register him for classes at Columbia State, they spoke with an advisor about how he could enroll in the lineman program. They quickly learned that the program typically costs thousands of dollars—a cost that felt out of reach for Mason’s mother, who was supporting him as a single parent.
Thankfully, Mason’s advisor informed them about a grant through United Way for Williamson County students pursuing a trade instead of a traditional college path. The application process was simple, and with the support of United Way, Mason was able to enroll in the lineman program and follow his passion.
Mason has since completed the program and is now preparing to return to Columbia State for additional CDL training. He has also applied to several local power companies and is eagerly awaiting his next opportunity.
Mason and his mother are incredibly grateful for the support United Way provided, making it possible for him to pursue his dream of becoming a lineman—an opportunity they never imagined possible.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you and United Way does to make a way for those who otherwise wouldn’t have the chance to pursue their dreams,” said Tammy.
Meet Cooper
Scholarship recipients: Cooper from Dickson, TN and Ethan from Burns, TN.
As a single father with primary guardianship, Mike struggled to find a way to afford the McEwen Lineman School his son, Cooper, had his heart set on attending. While working at Dickson Electric Department, Mike learned during a safety class that Columbia State offered a similar lineman program. Their safety director encouraged him to look into it, and that advice led Mike and Cooper to visit the school.
During their visit, Tiffany Odom, Coordinator of Workforce Training, provided a wonderful tour, even taking them out to the yard to meet instructor Troy Smalling. It was at that moment that Cooper truly fell in love with the idea of becoming a lineman. From the hands-on training to the supportive administration, every step of Cooper’s journey at Columbia State reinforced that he was in the right place.
Thanks to the scholarship provided through United Way, Cooper enrolled in the program without the financial burden weighing on his family. He successfully completed the program, earned his CDL, and is now working in Dickson installing fiber with Ignite Broadband while awaiting the opportunity to step into a full lineman position.
The support that Mike and Cooper received reinforces the meaning of the phrase “it takes a village,” and they deeply appreciate the role United Way played in helping Cooper take the first steps toward his dream career.
In one of the Rodeo activities, students climb up and down an 80-foot pole, which is a necessary part of the TVPPA Climbing Lab Certification. In this activity, Cooper came in third place.
“I can’t emphasize this enough the gift of your scholarship was a blessing for my family and Cooper, and I truly appreciate it,” said Mike.
About the Scholarship
Our Transformation Fund fuels transformational outcomes across our multi-county footprint by investing in several priority areas, including workforce development. Funding was provided to by a generous gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott. Along with Columbia State, we are working together to increase workforce opportunities for those in underserved communities. This partnership opens the door to a life-changing trade. Nineteen graduates from five lineworker cohorts have received full scholarships from the fund.
“To hear first-hand how the funds provided relief for these families is so powerful. Working together with partners, we can truly change the entire trajectory of a life,” added Debby Rainey, our Regional Manager, Community Impact – Williamson, Hickman & Dickson.