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When you’re training the next generation of utility workers, you need more than just a classroom. This is something that the instructors of Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC) had quickly recognized when they started their utility construction class. Teaching was important, but what would put their students in the best position to succeed in the utility industry was hands-on experience with real-world equipment.
However, finding the right solution posed several challenges. From budget constraints to limited space on campus to ensuring a strong and safe learning environment for the students, there was a lot to consider. In the end, after talking with industry partners, OSU-OKC identified Skylift’s MD 6000 E-Series (aka. the “Green Machine”) as the ideal solution.
The Green Machine met all of their requirements and came with endless benefits in the classroom. In this case study, we are going to highlight how OSU-OKC leveraged Skylift’s equipment to create a safer, more effective training program that prepared students to confidently enter the utility industry.
The Challenge: Bringing Real-World Utility Training to the Classroom
Oklahoma State University’s utility construction program is designed to prepare students for careers in the field. To do this effectively, students need more than just classroom instruction—they need hands-on experience with real utility equipment. However, the right equipment for the university had to meet several requirements:
- The equipment had to be compact and maneuverable. OSU-OKC’s training exercises take place on campus, where tight spaces, enclosed areas, and accessibility restrictions make it difficult to use standard utility trucks.
- Reliability was critical. The program runs multiple classes each week, meaning any downtime due to mechanical issues could disrupt the learning experience and limit students’ opportunities to train on the equipment.
- The equipment needed to cater to a positive learning environment. It had to support a variety of exercises that students would encounter in the real world. Instructors also needed a machine that was safe and easy to teach on, allowing them to demonstrate techniques in real time without unnecessary complications.
Finding a piece of equipment that met this criteria was no easy task—but after consulting with industry partners, OSU-OKC discovered the perfect solution.
The Perfect Solution: The Green Machine
To identify the best equipment for their utility construction program, OSU-OKC turned to their industry partners, including Oklahoma Gas and Electric Company (OG&E). They needed insight into the machines that were commonly used in the field and which models would best work for them. During these discussions, one name kept coming up: Skylift.
“We started considering backyard units and leaned on our industry partners to find out what they’ve used in the past and what worked well for them. Skylift kept coming up in those conversations, so we reached out to their team. They were great in helping us understand their models and recommending the best option for us and the students.” – Terry Clinefelter, Department Head Construction Technologies, School of STEM
After reviewing Skylift’s lineup of backyard easement machines, OSU-OKC selected the MD6000 E-Series, also known as the "Green Machine." This unit was the perfect fit for their program because of its compact size, hybrid operation, wide-ranging functionality, and reliability.
Skylift worked closely with OSU-OKC to make the purchase feasible, helping them stay within their budget by providing a demo unit rather than requiring them to invest in a brand-new machine. Once the "Green Machine" arrived on campus, its impact was immediate. Students had access to a state-of-the-art, industry-relevant machine, and instructors found that training became smoother, more effective, and more engaging than ever before.
The Impact of Hands-On Learning With Skylift Equipment
Once OSU-OKC acquired and started using the machine, the benefits became immediately apparent.
A Quieter, Better Learning Environment
One of the biggest advantages of the MD6000 E-Series was its hybrid power system, which significantly improved the learning environment. With the ability to operate on battery power, instructors could conduct exercises without the constant noise of a diesel engine, making it easier for students to hear instructions and ask questions in real time.
The hybrid functionality also provided a major safety advantage. In a traditional setting, engine noise can make it difficult for students to hear critical safety commands, but with the quiet operation of the Green Machine, instructors could maintain clear communication, even when students were working at height.
Adaptable for a Variety of Learning Experiences
While the MD6000 E-Series is primarily a digger derrick, designed to drill holes for utility poles, its adaptable design allowed OSU-OKC to expand their training opportunities. The machine can easily be fitted with a dual-bucket system, allowing students and instructors to safely work together on the elevated lineman work they would encounter in the field.
“Our instructor can work right alongside the students from the bucket, helping them learn to change out equipment on a pole and guiding them through each step—while being 40 feet up in the air! It’s such a great way for students to get real-time feedback.” – Terry Clinefelter, Department Head Construction Technologies, School of STEM
Students Got Real-World Experience
By working with industry-standard equipment in a variety of training scenarios, students gained valuable experience that directly translated to the field. Exercises included pole and pot change-outs, operating in confined spaces, and learning to safely maneuver the machine—skills that are in high demand in the utility industry.
Beyond the direct benefits to students, this program also created advantages for OSU-OKC’s industry partners, like OG&E. Since students were graduating with hands-on experience using the same type of equipment they would encounter on the job, they entered the workforce with a smaller learning curve and a stronger understanding of safe and efficient operations. This not only made them more attractive candidates for employers but also helped utility companies integrate new hires into their teams faster and more effectively.
Skylift: Investing in the Future of Utility Training
OSU-OKC’s experience with the MD6000 E-Series highlights the value of real-world, hands-on training for the next generation of linemen. By partnering with Skylift, the university was able to equip its students with industry-leading technology, giving them a head start in their careers. This case study demonstrates that having access to the right equipment can make a significant difference - not only for educational institutions but also for utility companies looking to hire well-prepared, safety-conscious workers.
Skylift is proud to support workforce development and training initiatives by providing reliable, industry-proven utility equipment. If you’re interested in learning more about how Skylift machines can enhance training programs or improve operations in the field, contact us today to explore the possibilities.
