FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Ava Coulter
Marketing and Communications Specialist
coulter@edawn.org, 775-343-6811
American Lineman College Expands to Reno, Investing in Opportunity, Workforce Development, and the Future of America’s Critical Infrastructure
Reno, Nev. (July 7, 2026) – American Lineman College is expanding to Reno, with plans to open its new campus by the end of the year, pending final approval by the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education. The Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN) and Stark Accelerators Commercial Real Estate worked together to bring the school to Northern Nevada.
The new campus is an investment in people, workforce development, and the future of one of America’s most essential industries. The College, which has secured a facility at 350 S. Rock Blvd. in Reno, prepares students for careers in linework, substation and system operations, and other essential roles that keep homes, businesses, and communities powered.
“Our mission has never been to simply open another trade school,” said Michael Hennesey, President of American Lineman College. “It has always been to create opportunity. We believe there are exceptional people in every community who have the work ethic, character, and determination to become outstanding utility professionals. Too often, the only thing standing between them and a life-changing career is access. Opportunity should never be a luxury.”
“We are thrilled to welcome American Lineman College to Northern Nevada,” said Heather Wessling Grosz, Senior Vice President of Business Development at EDAWN. “This is what happens when good partners work closely together, and it has been a pleasure collaborating with the College and the Stark team to make it happen. The school is filling a real need for skilled workers in our region, and we are excited about what it means for our workforce and the businesses that count on it.”
The Reno campus is expected to create benefits beyond the classroom. Many students are anticipated to travel from outside the area to train, bringing new dollars to local hotels, restaurants, and businesses, and the College intends to partner with local vendors and suppliers whenever possible.
“Partnering with EDAWN, with our senior associate Louie Llamas leading the deal, resulted in successfully finding American Lineman College a new training facility in Reno,” said Ken Stark, President of Stark Accelerators Commercial Real Estate. “Over the years, EDAWN has brought many businesses to Northern Nevada. What is exciting about American Lineman College is that they are addressing a critical skilled-labor shortage in essential industries. The College will become a critical part of our infrastructure deployment ecosystem by strengthening our workforce pipeline for the electrical line-working and climbing sectors.”
EDAWN works to attract and support companies that strengthen Northern Nevada’s economy, connecting businesses with the partners, resources, and real estate they need to grow here.
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About EDAWN:
The Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization established in 1983 funded primarily by private investors with support from public partners, committed to supporting, growing, and maintaining a vibrant and sustainable economy in Northern Nevada. For more information, visit: www.edawn.org
About American Lineman College:
American Lineman College prepares students for careers throughout the utility industry through rigorous, hands-on education emphasizing safety, technical excellence, leadership, professionalism, and character. Founded on the belief that opportunity should never be a luxury, American Lineman College is committed to changing lives, strengthening communities, and developing the skilled workforce that powers America’s critical infrastructure. For more information, visit: www.lineman-school.com.
About Stark Accelerators Commercial Real Estate:
Founded in 2004, Stark Accelerators is a commercial real estate firm built on the principle that ongoing, mutually beneficial relationships produce the best results. The firm offers a full range of services that combine local market familiarity with global industry insight, serving clients from developers and private investors to corporations and REITs. Based in Reno, Nev., and Boise, Idaho, with clients throughout the United States, Stark Accelerators brings more than 70 years of experience to buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants alike. For more information, visit: www.stark.realestate.