NCC Alumnus Daylon Brann Finds Calling, Career
Daylon Brann of Oxford, NC began his studies at Nash Community College after a few years of real-world experience. After graduating from high school in 2006 he attended college and majored in automotive technology. During this time he discovered automotive repair was not a career field he wanted to pursue. After years of working at a job just to earn a paycheck, Daylon found his calling. He decided to enroll in the Nash Community College Electric Line Construction Technology program.
Enrolling in the program he found his true calling as a Line Construction Technician. “Nash Community College’s program prepared me for the workforce and challenges I would face on a daily basis. It was rigourous; however, it proved to be worth every minute in the end,” Brann said. There are various traits needed to be successful in the Electric Line Construction Technology program at Nash Community College including dedication, exceptional study habits, the ability to work as a team and independently, and the strong drive to push through on the tough days. He offers the following advice to students interested in a career as a line technician: “Be ready to give 110 percent each day. Keep your eyes wide open, always remembering safety is first, and that any mistake impacts the entire team.”
After completing his certificate, Daylon found employment with Duke Energy. From his hands-on experience in the workforce he has built a foundation and learned many new skills to add to it. “Line technicians work together as a team. Similar to the analogy “It takes a village to raise a child” seasoned line workers teach newer employees. Everyone works together as a team, and my foundation provided me the skills to be successful,” Brann said.
The typical day of a line technician can certainly vary. On a regular day Daylon works from 7:30 am until 3:30 pm on an electrical construction crew. If weather permits, he is involved in various tasks, repairing and maintaining electric power lines and system auxiliary equipment. Specifically, he spends his time replacing copper wire with aluminum wire, setting area lights, installing new poles and lines, and updating existing electrical systems. Even during adverse weather, there is always work to be done such as maintenance to equipment and vehicles. However, line technicians must also be willing to work in inclement weather as they are sometimes called to respond during ice storms, high wind, rain and other severe weather events – extreme scenarios of which they are well trained to handle.
Daylon enrolled at Nash Community College for its reputation, and the cost effectiveness of the program. “My profession is rewarding and challenging at the same time. I love what I do, and I am thankful I chose the Electric Line Construction Technology program at Nash Community College. The education and skills are providing me with a bright and comfortable future,” he said.
