WAYNE COUNTY, W.Va., October 19, 2026 — CMAK Energy Group and GMB Powerline Services announce the successful launch of the Wayne County Lineman Program, which officially began August 13, 2026. Now underway in its inaugural fall semester, the program gives juniors and seniors at Tolsia High , Wayne High and Spring Valley High schools hands-on preparation for careers in the electrical line industry.
Developed in partnership with Wayne County Board of Education, the program reflects GMB’s commitment to investing in its home community and the next generation of skilled utility professionals. GMB Powerline Services, part of CMAK Energy Group, was founded by Wayne County native Michael Adkins, whose background includes 12 years as a lineman.
GMB fully funds the program’s core needs, including student gear, equipment and instructor salaries. Industry sponsors provide additional support that expands students’ learning opportunities.
“Wayne County is home, and giving students a chance to build a future in the line trade means a great deal to me,” said Michael Adkins, founder of GMB Powerline Services. “We want them to see what is possible and have the training, equipment and support to take that first step. This program is an investment in our students and the communities they will one day serve.”
Students learn utility fundamentals, safety practices and pole climbing through practical instruction. The curriculum includes opportunities to earn first aid and CPR credentials, complete OSHA 10 Electric Transmission and Distribution training, and pursue additional safety credentials. This foundation helps students prepare for entry-level opportunities and further apprenticeship training in the utility industry.
To expand hands-on learning beyond pole work, a 20,000-square-foot training center is being built on four acres at a location convenient to the participating schools. The facility will enable students to simulate building and running utility lines, giving them a broader understanding of how linework skills come together in the field.
“Our focus is on helping students develop safe work habits and a solid understanding of the trade from the beginning,” said Dustin Smith, Program Director. “Hands-on instruction connects what they learn in the classroom with the skills and expectations of the field. We want students to leave with confidence, practical knowledge and a clear sense of their next steps.”
CMAK Energy Group and GMB Powerline Services also recognize Safety Test, Buckingham Manufacturing, Milwaukee Tools, Hanes Supply and VOLTS Fleet Service for their generous support. Together, industry partners have contributed equipment, supplies and funds for field trips to work sites and lineman rodeos, giving students opportunities to see the trade in action.
As part of those learning opportunities, students boarded a bus to travel to Kansas for the 2026 International Lineman’s Rodeo & Expo, taking place October 14–17. The rodeo competition held at the National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame in Bonner Springs, Kansas, is where lineworkers from around the world competed in events based on traditional linework tasks, including pole climbing and hurtman rescue. The trip gave students an opportunity to observe skilled professionals in action and connect their classroom instruction with the safety practices, technical skills and teamwork used in the trade.
The successful launch demonstrates how collaboration between schools and industry can expand access to career training while helping develop the workforce that builds, maintains and restores essential power infrastructure.
If interested in more information or a contribution to the program, please reach out to Dustin Smith at [email protected].
GMB Powerline Services is a leading provider of electric utility infrastructure services, specializing in transmission and distribution construction, substation services, planned utility work and nationwide emergency storm restoration. Serving utility customers across the United States, GMB is recognized for its unwavering commitment to safety, quality, reliability and customer partnership. As a member of the CMAK Energy Group family of companies, GMB continues to invest in its people, technology and operational capabilities to meet the evolving needs of the utility industry.
