PLYMOUTH, NH – A midlife career change is off to a good start for Brian Francis of Plymouth, who was recently named the recipient of the annual New Hampshire Electric Cooperative (NHEC) Lineworker Scholarship.

Francis, a 2002 graduate of Plymouth Regional High School, spent most of his working life building custom homes in the area, but a desire to help his community led him to consider a new career in linework. Francis says he’s looking forward to the excitement of life on the lines and used the $2,500 scholarship award to complete his training at the Linemen Institute of the North East in New York, where he ranked at the top of his class of 42.

“Brian demonstrated in his scholarship application that he is a community-minded person who wants to give back through his work as a lineman,” said Sara Thielbar, head of the NHEC Scholarship Committee. “We wish him luck in his training and future career.”

NHEC offers one $2,500 scholarship annually to members or children of members who are pursuing a career as an electrical lineworker. CLICK HERE for more information about NHEC’s scholarship opportunities and community programs.