13
protective gear, tree-trimming basics and more, all
so they can scale trees and keep powerlines free
from limb interference.
"This program would not be possible without
the support of the Alabama Power Foundation,"
said ISTC President Annette Funderburk. "It was
a long process, but through various meetings
and innovative thinking we were able to create
a program that met the needs of Alabama while
giving individuals a second chance."
Program instructor Johnny Thornburg has
worked in the industry for decades and calls the
program a major benefi t for all involved. "These
companies need skilled workers, so we're fi lling
a key gap," he says, "but what it does for the
participants is amazing." As they make their way
up tree trunks and power poles, starting with
25-foot climbs and ending with at least a
100-foot ascension, their moods are elevated,
too. "With every foot gained, there's an equal
measure of confi dence gained," Thornburg says.
Since 2023, the program has trained four cohorts
totaling 50 men so far. "If they could quadruple
the program, it would still be full," Thornburg
says. More than the promise of a paycheck drives
its popularity, though. According to Thornburg,
"his guys" know their work helps the community.
"Tree guys are often the fi rst on scene to clean
up and start getting the power back on after
a disaster," he says. "They reap real rewards
knowing they can be a part of the solution. It
gives them pride in themselves, which leads to
hope. That's mostly what I'm teaching."
