Gas Distribution Pipeline Mechanic Introduction Program
To meet the increased regional demand for skilled labor in the natural gas distribution industry, the Collegiate Consortium for Workforce and Economic Development has partnered with PECO and other industry counterparts to bolster the local gas distribution mechanic workforce. The Consortium consists of Bucks County Community College, Camden County College, Community College of Philadelphia, Delaware County Community College, Montgomery County Community College and Drexel University.
Curriculum for the program was developed through a coordinated effort led by the Consortium and PECO, and was supported by Philadelphia Gas Works, Henkels & McCoy and Utility Line Services.
This hands-on program prepares students for entry-level employment in the natural gas industry. Students will learn how to perform tasks needed to install and maintain pipelines for natural gas distribution systems, which provide natural gas service to residential, commercial and industrial customers.
Job Outlook
Employment of Gas Distribution Line Mechanics is closely aligned with three Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry’s High Demand Occupations. They are listed as Pipe and Steam Fitter, Pipe Layers, and Installations, Maintenance and Repair Worker. Entry-level salaries for the following positions can be as high as an estimated salary of $23-$25 per hour.
Work Environment
Gas Distribution Line Mechanics are responsible for the installation and maintenance of natural gas distribution systems, which provide natural gas service to residential, commercial and industrial customers. Successful Line Mechanics must be physically fit, hardworking, and able to follow instructions rapidly and proficiently. Mechanics can expect to work on many different sites doing a variety of jobs. Having a diverse skill set and being able to communicate with people effectively, is important.
Class Schedule and Location
Opening in 2022, the new Career and Advanced Technology Center will include state-of-the-art teaching and learning facilities. The course offerings at the Career and Advanced Technology Center will focus on career readiness and creating a thriving workforce in our city’s transportation, manufacturing and health care fields. The program includes 132 classroom hours and 54 hours of operator qualification training.
Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Possess a valid driver's license in your state of residence
- Pass a Department of Transportation drug test and physical
- Must be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
- Residency may be required
- Must achieve a passing score on a mechanical aptitude test
Cost
Total cost is $5,189, which includes testing, CPR certification, OSHA card and materials. The cost does not include CDL permit.
Workforce Development Program Scholarships
Community College of Philadelphia Foundation and its donors are pleased to offer scholarships to students enrolling in select Workforce Development courses. To submit your scholarship application, follow the steps in this Workforce Development Program Scholarship Application Guide.
Register
To register and for more information, contact Debbie Serano at the Consortium at 215-218-3886 or info [at] collegiateconsortium.org (info[at]collegiateconsortium[dot]org).
Classes
Workplace Success / CAST Preparation
Provides the foundation for success in employment in the construction and skilled trades industry. Regardless of a candidate’s position, there are key skills that will enable you to be successful and an added value to your organization. Students will review the four aptitude disciplines of the Construction and Skilled Trades (CAST)
Technical Skills and Safety
This course is designed to provide the student with the theory and experience necessary to appropriately plan, organize and perform typical introductory job assignments of a technician, mechanic or helper.
First Aid Safety
Emergency first-aid and accident-prevention instruction for employees and managers. OSHA requirements are stressed in this course. Administrative aspects of recordkeeping requirements, rights and responsibilities, standards, safety program development and implementation are covered. Safety training includes identification and elimination of accident and health hazards, inspection techniques and administration of first aid and CPR.
Operator Qualification Tasks
The Northeast Gas Association through its predecessor organizations - NEGA and NYGAS - has had a program on Operator Qualification (OQ) since 1998. OQ is a regulation of the Office of Pipeline Safety of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). It requires pipeline operators to develop and maintain a written qualification program for individuals performing covered tasks on pipeline facilities. The intent of this qualification is to ensure a qualified workforce and to reduce the probability and consequence of incidents caused by human error.
CDL Permit
During this 16-hour module, students will be instructed on all topics of State CDL Manual to prepare to pass the PA State Air Brakes, General Knowledge, and Combination Vehicle multiple choice tests.
Information Session
Hear about the advanced manufacturing industry and employment opportunities as you begin your path to a new career.
Watch the recorded Advanced Manufacturing information session here
Questions?
Thinking about enrolling but need additional information or assistance with registering?
//csinquiry [at] ccp.edu (Contact us with your questions here).
Course Dates and Times
| Date and Times | Location | Course Cost/Fees | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|
Tues., Weds., Thurs., | In-Person Class Career and Advanced Technology Center Located at the southeast corner of 48th and Market. | $5,189 (Includes testing, CPR certification, OSHA card and materials. The cost does not include CDL permit.) | To register, contact Debbie Serano at the Consortium at 215-218-3886 or info [at] collegiateconsortium.org (info[at]collegiateconsortium[dot]org). |