“Sustainability of CUC is heavily dependent upon having a cadre of skilled technicians and engineers available continuously,” he said.
He said the U.S. Office of Insular Affairs can help by supporting an apprenticeship program like what the American Samoa Power Authority had in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s.
Malae said the program requires multi-year funding and a structured teaching approach.
Under this program, selected students will work as interns of CUC and will be sent abroad for formal schooling at a polytechnical institute.
CUC has been training its power, water and wastewater personnel with the Pacific Lineman Training and Micronesian Water Training programs.
In his recent visit to Saipan, U.S. Interior Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs Tony Babauta commended CUC’s apprenticeship program.
He also urged CUC to hire former military personnel with technical knowledge.
“It’s a good scheme to turn riflemen in to linemen,” he said.
He said CUC should have programs that will encourage more local employment and create opportunity for graduates of skilled training courses.
