From left, Jesus Quitano, trades supervisor; Jay Rideb; Benji Yorormad; Joelourd Cepeda; Eddie Guzman; Glenn Manglona; Harry “Spike” Speicher, PLT-certified instructor; Kevin Watson, MPA, CUC Executive Director; Jimmy Manalo; Jessica Mundo; Rodney Taisacan II; Lee Lieto, power division manager; Vanessa Fitial, human resources generalist; Clay Williams, training & development coordinator; and Francisco Matsunaga, human resources manager. Not pictured: Graduates Nardin Lizama, Nicialynn Cabrera, and Collin Duenas.
CUC photo
(CUC) — The Commonwealth Utilities Corporation proudly celebrated the graduation of 11 lineworkers from the Pacific Lineman Training or PLT program at a ceremony held at the CUC Power Division Office in Oleai on Friday, Feb. 21, 2025. These dedicated individuals successfully completed rigorous training under the guidance of PLT-certified instructors Harry “Spike” Speicher and Chris Middleton. Speicher was present to honor the graduates.
The graduates are Nicialynn Cabrera, Joelourd Cepeda, Collin Duenas, Eddie Guzman, Nardin Lizama, Jimmy Manalo, Jay Rideb, Benji Yorormad, Glenn Manglona, Rodney Taisacan II, and Jessica Mundo.
Nicialynn Cabrera and Jessica Mundo are the only two female trade assistants who completed the training.
Reflecting on their experience, Cabrera said, “When I was younger, I saw someone climbing poles near my house, and I thought it was pretty cool. PLT gave me a better understanding of our work, going more in-depth than just on-the-job training.”
Mundo added, “PLT was helpful and informative, especially for someone new like me. The hands-on learning was particularly beneficial.”
The graduates shared their aspirations, with Cabrera and Mundo expressing their goal of becoming trades forepersons. Both emphasized the significance of teamwork and safety in the industry, with Mundo stating, “Safety is a big factor, especially because we work with electricity. This is someone’s life.”
Instructor Harry “Spike” Speicher, who has over 50 years of experience in linework, highlighted the importance of the PLT program in equipping Pacific Islanders with the skills and knowledge to manage their own power distribution systems. “PLT was designed to give Pacific Islanders the skills, knowledge, and positive attitude to work,” Speicher explained. “This training provides them with career opportunities without the burden of student loans.”
The PLT program is funded by the U.S. Department of the Interior and is certified by the U.S. Department of Labor, ensuring that graduates receive industry-recognized training and qualifications.
CUC Executive Director Kevin Watson, MPA, commended the graduates for their dedication, stating, “CUC is incredibly proud of these graduates for their hard work and perseverance in completing this training. Their commitment to excellence will directly contribute to the resilience and reliability of our power infrastructure across the CNMI. We look forward to seeing them grow in their careers and continue to serve our community.”
CUC commends all graduates for their dedication and hard work. Their newfound expertise will benefit the CNMI communities of Saipan, Rota, and Tinian as they continue to serve in this essential field.
