About the Program
Licensed through the Oregon Department of Education, the Vocational Outside Line Training Academy (VOLTA) is a private, non-profit vocational training school: preparing students for entry-level work as a line worker in the outside line industry.
If you are interested in pursuing a high-paying, skilled trade, VOLTA can help you achieve your goals. Our program focuses on skills for both the entry-level lineworker and the experienced tradesman looking to make a career change. You will be taught by Journey-level instructors who are currently active in the industry.
You will learn skills ranging from fundamental knowledge of electrical systems to equipment and safety protocols. Your accumulated knowledge will prepare you to enter the field as an entry-level lineworker. We ensure that the skills we teach are in line with the current industry demand so employers will know you have the skills they want in a new hire.
**THE 2026 VOLTA CALENDAR CAN BE FOUND IN THE 2026 VOLTA CATALOG.
Message to VOLTA Parents
We understand and appreciate your interest in your child’s success. However, an important first step in that process is allowing them to take responsibility as an adult. All VOLTA applications and application-related discussions will be conducted exclusively with the applicant, not with parents or guardians.
Program Features
VOLTA offers students multiple opportunities to pursue positions in the outside electrical industry. This includes such skilled and semi-skilled positions as:
- Apprentice Lineman
- Apprentice Tree Trimmer
- Equipment Operators for Digger/Derricks, Cranes, Backhoes
- Line & Tree crew helpers
How to Apply
The VOLTA application process has recently changed. All applicants must review the 2026 VOLTA Catalog, 2026 Enrollment Application, and the 2026 VOLTA Application Checklist before applying. These documents are available on the VOLTA Resources page. Applications will only be processed once all required materials have been received. Completed applications may be dropped off or mailed to the Battle Ground office, or emailed to volta@nwlinejatc.com. Payment must be submitted by check, cashier’s check, or money order (cash will not be accepted). Applicants will be notified within 48 hours of receipt whether they have been accepted, waitlisted, or deferred. No additional payment is required unless further instructions are provided.
Enrollment Period For Each Session
Applications received prior to open enrollment will be returned.
Admission requirements
To be considered for enrollment in the VOLTA 2026 program, applicants must submit a completed enrollment application along with required documentation and the $150 application fee. Applicants must provide proof of a valid driver’s license or CDL permit, current medical insurance, and a sealed official high school transcript or GED. All required materials must be received before an application will be reviewed.
Before submitting your application, confirm you have included:
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Completed Enrollment Application
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Copy of valid driver’s license or CDL permit
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Proof of current medical insurance
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Sealed official high school transcript or GED
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$150 application fee (check, cashier’s check, or money order only — no cash)
VOLTA currently holds three sessions per year, starting each spring, summer, and fall. Once a class is full, alternates are placed on a waiting list (10 max). Should someone not be able to fulfill their obligation, the next eligible applicant will be contacted. Applicants will be notified by email upon their acceptance.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the WOMEN'S ALL EXPENSES PAID scholarship opportunity sponsored by NECA?
The National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) has created a scholarship to help increase opportunities for women in the outside electrical industry. This is an annual, ALL EXPENSE PAID, scholarship for VOLTA. Any interested applicants must submit a 500-word essay. The prompt can be located on the VOLTA resources page, please refer to the document titled, “VOLTA Women’s Scholarship,” for more information.
Check with the JATC office after February 2024 for upcoming acceptance dates.
How long is VOLTA?
VOLTA is a 400-hour program broken down into 10 weeks. Classes run Monday through Thursday for ten (10) hours each day. Class schedules may vary due to holidays and Professional Development days for our staff and faculty.
How many sessions are offered a year?
VOLTA offers three sessions per calendar year: Spring, Summer and Fall. Please check the VOLTA Catalog on the resources page to find exact dates.
How many students are accepted into the program?
VOLTA currently accepts 32 student per session per location. If your application does not get accepted, you will be waitlisted and have the possibility of preferential placement in the next session upon the completion of a new application.
What is the current cost of VOLTA?
The current cost is $8,500 which includes the $150 enrollment fee. Student are responsible for their tools, lodging, and meals.
Is there financial aid available?
While VOLTA is a State-approved private, non-profit vocational training school, we do not currently accept Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). However, we do accept various grants, private loans, and external scholarships.
How do I find loans/scholarships?
Students can find scholarships in various ways. High school and community college career centers tend to have a database of various grants and scholarship opportunities from national and local organizations like Kiwanis, Women in Trades, and various utility companies. Two great sources that provide funds for electrical training are the Roger Earl Meier Scholarship and the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation Work Ethic Scholarship. You can also utilize online search engines like Fastweb: designed specifically as a scholarship matching service.
Where is VOLTA located?
VOLTA currently has two locations. One is at the Camp Rilea Armed Forces Training Center, located in Warrenton, Oregon (WEST). The second is at the Parker Technical Education Center, North Idaho College, located in Rathdrum, Idaho (EAST).
How can I apply to VOLTA?
You must first wait for open enrollment to begin. VOLTA holds three sessions per year, meaning three separate enrollment sessions. Application acceptance dates are posted on the calendar and will not be accepted prior to the posted application date. VOLTA applications (with instructions) are posted on the Resource page.