Advanced Distribution School

April 20-24, 2026

Registration deadline is April 6

This course is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training; and is part of the AIEC “Illinois Rural Electric Apprenticeship Program”.  This course is recommended for first year IREAP apprentices.

 Line School Forms - Each apprentice needs to print and bring these forms filled out to the first day of class.

Hands-on Training will Include

• Demonstrate the use of a variety of line fasteners and insulating equipment
• Describe pole quality and safety consideration while climbing
• Trouble-shoot lightning arrestors
• Participate in 3-phase line pole and crossarm changes
• Participate in discussion of accidents and near misses in electrical distribution work
• Demonstrate skills on transmission line maintenance (transmission sticking)

School Details

• Schools will start on Monday of each week with registration at 12:30 p.m.
• Monday 1:00 – 4:30 p.m. | Tuesday-Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
• Participants are responsible for their own meals. One hour will be allowed for lunch each day.  Each student needs to bring their own water jug.

Required Participant Equipment and Tools:

• Boots with a heel, suitable for climbing
• Pair of lineman's climbers, including all pads and straps
• Properly fitting lineman's belt and fall restraint equipped with a tool pouch and nut and bolt bag
• Hard hat
• Safety glasses (clear or dark)
• Long-sleeved shirt for climbing
• Leather work gloves
• Tools—side cutting pliers, skinning knife, folding wood ruler, screwdriver (6" blade minimum), hammer (claw or ballpeen), 12" adjustable wrench.
• Wet and cold weather clothing for outside activities

Accommodations

Please use any of the hotels we have special rates with.  https://aiec.coop/hotels

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations made prior to the registration deadline will be not be charged. Cancellations made after the registration deadline, but within 48 hours of the school will be charged at 50%. Cancellations thereafter/no shows will be charged the full school amount. Substitutions are allowed.