Waterloo North Hydro to Double Conestoga College Scholarships for Powerline Maintainers

Jan 21, 2019

Starting this year, Waterloo North Hydro (WNH) is doubling the number of scholarships it offers to nearby Conestoga College students, from two to four.

The additional scholarships add to a relationship the utility began with the college in 2010, when WHN began an annual donation of equipment to Conestoga, including trucks and trailers that are scheduled to be replaced by newer models. This equipment and surplus materials are provided to the college to help fund the program and for use by students studying to be powerline technicians.

In addition to vehicle donations, WNH also shares its industry knowledge and the experience of its staff with the students. The utility provided instructors to the course for several years, former employees are program coordinators and current employees act as program advisors.

“By donating materials and sharing our leadership, knowledge and experience with students in the program, we are helping to educate the next generation of lines people,” says Waterloo North Hydro President and CEO Rene Gatien.

WNH also helps to ensure the continued success of the program through scholarships given to deserving students in each class.

“We greatly appreciate the support we receive from Waterloo North Hydro,” said Conestoga President and CEO John Tibbits. “Their contributions enrich the learning experience and help better prepare our students for successful careers in the industry.”

The Conestoga program is considered one of the leading programs of its kind. Graduates from the program are working for utilities across the province, including WNH. Currently, nine Conestoga Powerline Technician graduates are employed by WNH as powerline maintainers or apprentice powerline maintainers.

For more information on WNH’s work in the community, please visit www.wnhydro.com/community. For information on Conestoga College, visit www.conestogac.on.ca