Frequently Asked Questions

• Will a Class A permit work?
No, you must provide proof of a valid Class A CDL license to qualify for an interview.

Due to high volume we do not confirm whether individual documents have arrived. If you are concerned about making sure your items have arrived, the best way to do so is send it via method you can have tracked while shipping.
• How long before my application is processed??
There is a 7-10 business day average. Applications are processed in chronological order as the mailed transcripts come in, this process ensures applications and interviews are ordered properly and that any applications submitted after yours are not processed before yours. Once we have transcripts we verify the online submissions are finished and complete your application. If anything is missing we will contact you back by email.
• How long before I will know my interview date?
You will receive correspondence stating your application is complete and you are now waiting for an interview. These notices are both emailed and mailed out. Interviews can happen within the next month and typically takes 1-3 months on average (but can take longer) depending on if there’s a waiting list to interview in that area.
• What do I need to bring to interview?
Nothing. No tools are needed. It is an oral interview and no demonstration is required. You may bring paystubs to ask for credit for previous experience if you wish to do so.
• Can I get credit for previous work experience/line school/previous apprenticeship?
It is up to each individual subcommittee to determine whether they will grant credit to an individual.
• What address do I mail my documentation to?
Our mailing address is 8425 Washington Pl. NE Albuquerque, NM 87113, but there is no longer documentation that needs to be mailed. Please check with brittany@swlcat.org if you have questions.
• When will I know if I’m accepted?
After interviewing you will receive your rank score. We will contact applicants individually via written correspondence on an as needed basis when new apprentices needed. If you are not contacted, you can remain on the rank list for up to 1year.

Orientation will is held in Albuquerque NM over an 9 day period (Friday through Saturday) and it is required you complete orientation and pass to remain an indentured lineman apprentice. Failure to pass orientation will result in removal from the program. Breakfast, lunch, and hotel are provided. Books and tools are issued upon completion of orientation.

***For Apprentices***

• How will I receive classroom/field training?
All indentured apprentices are required to complete two separate week long (reporting Sunday night with class Monday through Thursday) classes held twice a year in Albuquerque, NM and La Grange, TX. All class schedules are posted in TradeSchool accounts. ALL apprentices are also required to attend 4 mandatory classes a year in their respective area.
• How do I report my monthly hours worked?
Monthly hours are due on the 1st of month every month, they will be counted late if sent anytime on/after the 10th after 5pm MST.
ALL Online hours must be submitted to appropriate supervisor email by 5 pm MST by the 10th of every month. If you are unaware of how to submit online timesheets please watch the following video. http://swlcat.org/apprequest.html

Supervisors can make an account via the link below.
https://secure.tradeschoolinc.com/v4/swlcat-org/login/index.php