FAQs

When do I need to apply?
You need to apply on OCAS (www.ontariocollege.ca) by February 1 to start the program in the Fall. The acceptances for the highly competitive programs are released on March 1 to applicants.

What is average grade for admission?
Applications to this program must be received by February 1 for equal consideration. Then all applicants are ranked on the average of the Math and English entrance grades. The average admission grade cut off for the Powerline Technician program in Fall 2022 was 80.5% and Fall 2023 was 82%. This is very dependent on the number and entrance grades of applicants each year.

Any qualified woman who applies, will receive an offer through the We Saved You A Seat program. More information on the We Saved You a Seat initiative can be found here.

Will I be a Powerline Technician Apprentice when I complete this program?
Many power utility companies will hire with no prior training required, however the 2 year Powerline Technician Diploma program gives students an advantage with finding employment. For the past few years, Hydro Ottawa has hired exclusively from the Algonquin Powerline Technician diploma program to fill their positions for Powerline Maintainer Apprentices and Cable Jointer Apprentices.

Students cannot apply directly to the Powerline Technician Apprentice program. Prior to enrolling in this program, students must be working in the field as a registered apprentice with the Ontario College of Trades. Once you find an employer/sponsor, then you can register as an apprentice. When your application is approved, the ministry will sign a training agreement with you. For more information on apprenticeships, visit ontario.ca/page/start-apprenticeship.

What kind of computer will I need to buy for this program?
A Windows laptop with a minimum 15 inch screen is required. Students are trained on a Windows-based platform which is the industry standard in the field of engineering. Mac platforms are not acceptable because they are not compatible with the hardware and software used in this program.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): As a student in this on-campus program, you will require a mobile computing device that meets the specifications outlined by your program here.

How many students are in the class?
Only 48 students are accepted each year. (Fall start only).

When will my timetable be available on ACSIS?
Timetables are usually available in your ACSIS account in the first week of August.

Are there any specific clothing/uniform I need to purchase for this program?
Students must supply their own CSA-approved safety footwear (6 or 8 inch boot is required for climbing) and non-tinted protective eyewear. Lineman boots are recommended. These boots have a higher arch than most work boots so that the midfoot can be locked in, providing additional grip whilst climbing. Custom sizes can be found at companies like nicksboots.com.

Will I need to buy any textbooks?
There are 3 textbooks that must be purchased in level 01 for the entire program. This includes the Canadian Electrical Code, Part I which can be purchased directly from the CSA website in either PDF or Paper format here.

As a student in a program that has adopted etextbooks, your required texts and digital resources will be provided to you at the beginning of each term (with the exception of general education electives). For more information and associated fees, visit algonquincollege.com/etextbooks/.

Where is the Hydro Ottawa partner site located? Will I be able to get there using public transit?
The Hydro Ottawa site is located at 4565 Bank Street, at the intersection of Leitrim Road. Public transit does serve this area, it is just over an hour’s travel time if leaving from the college; times may vary from other starting points in the city. Many students arrange car-pools to save time and expenses. Classes at that site begin in level 2 and occur one day per week for the remainder of the program.

When will I be doing the co-op placement? Do I have to find the placement myself or does the college assist in getting and preparing for my coop placement?
Co-op is an optional component of this program, and students must have a minimum GPA of 2.7 (B-) and must complete a co-op preparation course in level 1 in order to qualify. Students can opt out of the co-op version of the program and have a scheduled break between level 2 and 3 (May – August).

The co-op work term takes place between levels 2 and 3 (during the Spring term). You are responsible for finding your own co-op placement although the college will assist with resume and job interview preparation and providing access to the HireAC co-op job board. For more information on co-op programs, the co-op work/study schedule, as well as general and program-specific co-op eligibility criteria, please visit algonquincollege.com/coop.