FAQs
What's in it for me?
If you are a line clearance tree trimmer, working for a contractor for the specific purpose of clearing lines for a utility, you are already making union scale wages for your step level on your path to journeyworker. When your company paid into JATC’s training fund, you became eligible for enrollment in the JATC line clearance certification program. This program is more than just your company’s evaluation of your worth. If you choose to work for another contractor doing line clearance in California, your step level will travel with you. We document your skill and time.
What will this cost me?
Your Company pays for this program. We encourage every employee who is eligible to take full advantage of all that is offered.
Can I be stepped down for failing an evaluation?
No. JATC can only advance you through evaluations and assessments.
Are the onsite assessments difficult?
Yes. They must be passed with an 80% rate of right answers or better. You need to show the appropriate skills and knowledge to work safely at each level.
Are the proctored evaluations difficult?
Yes. They are based on (and in most cases taken from) questions you can familiarize yourself with on the KPA platform. The step evaluations are difficult. So is trimming a tree, running a crew, driving safely and being efficient in your trade.
Can I get reimbursed for a CDL?
Yes, but there are some important things to understand. Our CDL Reimbursement program is a grant-funded effort. This means that CDL Reimbursements are available to:
- People who are currently registered with Cal Nev JATC Utility Arborist Certificate program, and…
- Are also enrolled in the CDL Reimbursement Program, and…
- Grant Funds are available.
Remember, you must be registered with JATC and enrolled in the CDL Program. There will be some out-of-pocket costs for each individual; we do not reimburse your CDL permit or DOT Approved Drivers Physical examination.
What happens if I am already a Journeyman and I want to make it official?
You would have to take the Journeyman evaluation. In order to do this, you must have documented proof of your step level and take the next scheduled Journeyman evaluation (Step 3 final evaluation). It is highly recommended that you study the KPA assignments if only to see how the quizzes are worded. Remember, the quizzes themselves prepare us for the evaluations. When you are qualified to take the evaluation, you will be given access to the KPA system and be able to read, watch, and do the quizzes to prepare yourself for it.
If I am on my first step how long will it take me to make second step?
That is entirely up to you. It may take as little as six months. Successful mastery of the materials and skills advance you. Our trainers will assess you periodically in the field. The field assessments, combined with your practice and study of electrical hazards, hardware, knots, rigging forces, tree biology and pruning will lead to your promotion. If you are a groundworker, you will need to get your employer’s consent to advance to first step before you can enter the program
Can I be a journeyman in 18 months?
It is possible. It can take as little as 18 months, and the course and evaluations are designed to give you that chance. But it may take longer. We are not here to advance you over a specific time. We are here to advance you due to your demonstrated skills and the mastery of certain principles which we find useful in safe, efficient line clearance.
Do I have to take the course or tests? I am happy where I am.
If you feel that you are secure in your company, and will not be leaving, it is possible you will be happy where you are. Your company is betting on you needing this more complete training. This is why they pay in to our program and make it possible for you to take it.
What is KPA?
KPA is an online storehouse of modules that specifically relate to our trade. Each lesson in KPA is followed by a quiz. The quiz questions reinforce the lesson while preparing the learner for the proctored final evaluation.