Electrical utility workers train in areas of engineering, physics and, naturally, electricity. Workers must also be knowledgeable in safety concerns. Each state regulates the types of test its approved utility workers must pass, but most tests contain the same general information.

Mathematics

Any power lineman training necessarily includes basic and advanced math instruction, including algebra, trigonometry, geometry and measurements. Mastery of these skills may be a prerequisite to moving on to other areas of lineman study.

Safety

An important component of lineman training teaches safety issues. Linemen train in areas of material handling, fire and chemical safety and working safely with electricity.

Electrical Principles

Prospective lineman can expect in-depth testing in the principles of electricity, including AC and DC current, capacitors, transistors, insulators, magnetism, circuits and energy distribution.

Lineman Skills

Linemen spend much of their time setting and repairing poles and distribution lines, so testing likely will include components on rigging, motors, transformers, machinery and circuit testing. Linemen should be able to demonstrate these techniques.

Electric Transmission and Distribution

Prepare for the test by studying local distribution patterns, transmission lines, instrument reading, underground systems, relaying and reading schematics.