Skills for success (Essential Skills) summary
Essential skills are needed for work, learning and life. They provide the foundation for learning all other skills and enable people to evolve with their jobs and adapt to workplace change.
Through extensive research, the Government of Canada and other national and international agencies have identified and validated nine essential skills. These skills are used in nearly every occupation and throughout daily life in different ways.
A series of CCDA-endorsed tools have been developed to support apprentices in their training and to be better prepared for a career in the trades. The tools can be used independently or with the assistance of a tradesperson, trainer, employer, teacher or mentor to:
- understand how essential skills are used in the trades;
- learn about individual essential skills strengths and areas for improvement; and
- improve essential skills and increase success in an apprenticeship program.
The tools are available online or for order at: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/essential-skills/profiles.html.
The application of these skills may be described throughout this document within the skills and knowledge which support each sub-task of the trade. The most important essential skills for each sub-task have also been identified. The following are summaries of the requirements in each of the essential skills, taken from the essential skills profile.
Reading
Powerline technicians read code books, standards and regulations to ensure work is done in compliance with industry standards. They read drawings and forms that contain technical information related to construction standards or specifications. They also read emails and other correspondence to stay informed on issues. They consult textbooks to determine steps to take when encountering new or infrequent tasks.
Document Use
Powerline technicians interpret information on lists, logbooks and timesheets, and they scan work orders for information about current projects such as job location, job description, timelines, scheduling, contractor requirements, project hazards and project contacts. They use area maps and equipment identification codes to identify their work location. They complete a variety of forms and checklists. They interpret symbols and codes on construction drawings, and use schematic drawings to assemble a piece of equipment or to isolate a circuit. Powerline technicians use information taken from tables and charts to perform calculations such as voltage drop or appropriate conductor sag.
Writing
Powerline technicians keep a daily logbook containing reminders and notes about job progress, deliveries, weather conditions and unusual occurrences. They may prepare training evaluations, switching authorizations and work protection documents. They document safety hazards and precautions or measures taken to implement barriers and controls to manage risks.
Oral Communication
Powerline technicians communicate with dispatchers to exchange information about work in progress or to obtain new assignments, and with supervisors and other crew members several times a day to share crucial information about tasks that need to be completed and unforeseen problems. They maintain constant contact with all crew members during operations to ensure the safety of all workers. Powerline technicians interact with property owners, the general public and various contractors. They also explain and demonstrate safe working techniques to new employees.
Numeracy
Powerline technicians estimate time and verify or determine materials and equipment required for a job. They calculate to what depth to bury poles, the weight of a load to be rigged, fuse size, the tension and angle of guy wires, and average kilo-voltage-amperes (kVA). Powerline technicians work in both metric and imperial systems of measurement and must be able to convert between the two systems.
Thinking
Powerline technicians use problem solving skills to determine how to proceed with an installation when safety hazards or unforeseen obstructions present themselves. They identify the people such as fire fighters, police, city representatives, customers and dispatchers, who need to be consulted to determine course of action when faced with emergencies such as downed wires or traffic lights, and storms. Powerline technicians use decision making skills to decide alternate work activities to be completed when weather prevents planned work. They decide on the suitability of materials and proper procedures to follow to accomplish tasks in a safe and efficient manner. Powerline technicians establish critical timelines for assigned projects keeping in mind that electrical power must be restored as quickly and safely as possible.
Working with Others
Powerline technicians work as part of a crew to perform critical and often highly hazardous work; therefore, collaboration is crucial. They participate in formal and informal discussions with co-workers, supervisors and other work groups about work processes. They monitor the work of others and may assign tasks to them or inform them of how to perform a task.
Digital Technology
Powerline technicians use communications software such as email and texting to communicate. They may access the Internet to obtain information, or to review electrical schematics or construction drawings. They also use other computer applications such as global information system (GIS) software to locate or place powerline devices or components. They may also use remote monitoring devices such as drones and supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) technology.
Continuous Learning
Powerline technicians need to maintain and upgrade their skills and knowledge of industry standards and regulations by attending educational sessions or courses offered by provincial or federal associations, and employers. Powerline technicians must also maintain their safety certifications such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillator (AED) and First Aid. They also learn from experienced co workers.