The decision to replace a medium-voltage cable is rarely straightforward. It involves high costs, plant downtime, mobilization of field crews, and a direct impact on the reliability of the electrical system. For many years, the dominant practice has been to adopt simplified criteria, generally based solely on cable age: Once a certain number of years has passed, replacement is planned.  …

Electrical equipment forms the backbone of modern industrial and utility operations, including power generation, transmission and distribution networks, renewable energy facilities, manufacturing plants, and hyperscale data centers. As global demand for reliable and uninterrupted power continues to rise, capital budget constraints and extended lead times for critical components are forcing organizations to place greater emphasis on maximizing the operational life of existing assets. 

Since its inception, the partnership between Long Beach City College (LBCC), Tony Demaria Electric, Inc. (TDE), and NETA has created a rare and impactful educational model for training high-voltage test technicians. Now entering its eighth academic year, the program continues to stand as a national example of how local institutions, accredited industry partners, and professional associations, as well as the individuals’ enthusiasm, dedication, and volunteering, can collaborate to address skilled labor shortages through a curriculum aligned with ANSI/NETA MTS, Standard for Maintenance Testing Specifications for Electrical Power Equipment and Systems.