10.09.2024

Eiffage Énergie Systèmes trains a new class of line technicians at its Verquin center (62)

Building on the success of previous classes, our Verquin training center is preparing to welcome the 2024 class of High Voltage lineworkers. After a selection process monitored by Eiffage Energie Systèmes and the GESR (French socially responsible employers’ association) the recruits will follow a two-year in-service training program, alternating theory-based classroom sessions with hands-on experience on site, culminating in a High Voltage B Line Fitter Certificate of Professional Qualification and permanent employment with the company. 

Following initial screening of almost 200 candidates by the GESR’s specialists in recruitment, training and employment in the energy sector, some 15 profiles were selected, firstly on the basis of technical tests, then after a personal interview. 

The new recruits spent the first six weeks being trained in the regulatory aspects and obligations of the lineworker’s job, including UTE (Union Technique de L ‘Électricité) standards and lifelines.  

They were also given theoretical and practical courses on job-related tasks such as setting up a lifeline, assembling a pylon, putting cables on pulleys, replacing insulator chains, etc. At the same time, they were tirelessly practicing how to deal with the main hazards faced by lineworkers, namely electrical risk (with the installation of earthing), falling from heights (with the installation of lifelines and securing rules) and mechanical risk (installation of force recovery systems). All this before embarking on the site part of the selection process! 

“The new class of line technicians consists of 12 candidates who are currently in training for two years. During the first year of training, these 12 candidates stay in a team, known as the “school team”, which spends time immersed on certain worksites. The team then returns to the Verquin training site for a two- to three-week debriefing. They are given additional vocational training and prepare for the following year. During the second year of training, the lineworker apprentices will be assigned to operational teams and supervised by their team tutors”, explained Activity Manager Christopher Selvanadin.  

At the end of these two years of in-service training in the “school team”, then within operational teams, they will prepare their Certificate of Professional Qualification (CQP) as High Voltage B line fitters. Graduates will then be hired on permanent contracts within the Energy Systems Division. 

“This program, backed by the GESR, creates a real work dynamic where cohesion is key. 80% of our workforce comes from the GESR. However, there are other recruitment sources, such as the involvement of professionals in high schools and co-optation,” concluded Christopher Selvanadin. 

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