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How to become a lineworker in Michigan
To become a lineworker in Michigan, most people finish a one-year lineworker program at a community college or get into the ALBAT union apprenticeship, then work 3 to 4 years to reach journeyman. You'll need a commercial driver's license and must be comfortable climbing poles. It's one of Michigan's best-paid trades, with a median of $51.39 an hour, but only about 295 openings a year, so it's competitive.
Last checked: October 2026. Pay is the Michigan median from the federal government (May 2025).
Quick facts: lineworker in Michigan
| Median pay | $51.39 an hour ($106,890 a year) |
|---|---|
| Typical range | $41 to $60 an hour |
| Openings | About 295 a year, growing 6.2% through 2034 |
| Training | A 1-year college program, then 3 to 4 years to journeyman |
| License | No state license. A CDL is effectively required. |
Sources: BLS, Michigan wages (May 2025) · Michigan Hot 50 (MCDA) · MCDA projections 2024 to 2034 · LCC, program cost
Ways to get trained, cheap or free
Community college
Lansing Community College: about 13 months including climbing school, $10,115.50 in-district (2025-26), with a track run with Consumers Energy. Gogebic Community College (Ironwood): 1 year, $9,996 without CDL or $15,004 with. Alpena Community College also offers utility technology. LCC · Gogebic · Alpena
Union apprenticeship
Michigan outside lineworkers apprentice through ALBAT, the American Line Builders training program. Journeyman status generally takes 3 to 4 years, with raises every 6 months (IBEW 876). Application windows are short, so check often.
Get the CDL early
Programs require you to be eligible for a Michigan CDL. How the CDL works
Short training for this job may qualify for Workforce Pell once Michigan approves specific programs, so ask the provider.
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Common questions
How much do lineworkers make in Michigan?
The median is $51.39 an hour, about $106,890 a year. Most earn between $41 and $60 an hour.
Source: BLS, May 2025
How do you become a lineworker in Michigan?
Most people finish a one-year community college lineworker program or get into the ALBAT apprenticeship, earn a CDL, then work 3 to 4 years to reach journeyman.
Source: ALBAT