Climbing toward opportunity: Kaden Boggs leads SKCTC’s first lineman class
Published on Dec 18, 2025
On Friday, December 12, 2025, the Hazen Theater at Southeast Kentucky Community & Technical College’s Cumberland campus was filled with pride and anticipation as the college celebrated the graduation of its inaugural lineman training class. As the very first student to enroll in SKCTC’s lineman program, the day marked not just a personal achievement for Cumberland native Kaden Boggs, but the start of a new chapter for the region’s workforce.
Kaden Boggs (center), the first student to enroll in Southeast’s lineman technology program, celebrates graduation with instructors Devin Daniels (left) and Joshua Lemar (right).
Kaden’s journey began in an electrical technology class, where instructor Tim Long
first mentioned the lineman program. “I started looking into lineman school my senior
year of high school. When I heard the Harlan campus was starting a program, I had
my mind made up to apply. I had no idea that I was the first person to apply to the
program. It’s a bittersweet feeling because this program was fun and educational but
I’m ready to make some money,” Kaden quipped.
The SKCTC lineman training program was launched through a federal Appalachian Regional Commission POWER grant, designed in partnership with local employers and workforce agencies. The program is part of a broader effort to expand technical training and strengthen southeastern Kentucky’s workforce pipeline. The curriculum is hands-on, covering everything from climbing and equipment safety to power line installation and field operations. Graduates leave with industry-recognized credentials and practical experience, prepared for entry-level roles with utility companies, electric cooperatives, and contractors.
“Meeting people who share the same interests as me and hearing real-world stories from experienced instructors,” Kaden shared. His defining moment came early: “The first time I climbed to the top of the pole, I thought, I got this.”
Faith was a guiding force for Kaden. “Jesus helps me in all paths of life,” he said.
“I hope to see this program grow and become even more successful,” Kaden remarked. His advice to those on the fence about applying is simple: “Do it — you won’t regret it. It’s a life-changing experience.”
For inquiries about the lineman technology program, contact Melvin Dixon at 606-589-3068 or mdixon0062@kctcs.edu, or reach out to Devin Daniels at 606-589-3224 or ddaniels0051@kctcs.edu.
