SPIDA®calc Pole Loading Certificate
About the Program
SPIDA®calc is an industry-recognized pole loading software application used by cities, contractors, utility companies, engineers, and planners to evaluate the impact of wind on wood and lightweight steel utility poles. This course begins with an introduction to pole loading, then moves into interpreting planner worksheets across a variety of real-world scenarios. You will apply that knowledge by reviewing utility-owned pole data, comparing field worksheet information against photos to confirm field conditions, entering worksheet data into SPIDA®calc to analyze poles under different wind conditions, and identifying remediation options when a pole does not meet safety requirements. The scenarios will progress from basic to more complex and are designed to challenge your ability to evaluate conditions, select the appropriate poles, and make informed decisions. Each exercise is built to closely reflect field situations without requiring you to be on site.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a Pole Loading with SPIDA®calc Certificate issued by Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Professional and Global Education (CPGE).
At A Glance
GET STARTED
Registration Opens July 22nd
What You Will Learn
- Review pre-collected utility-owned pole data documented on field worksheets.
- Compare field worksheet data with photographs to confirm field conditions and verify accuracy.
- Enter and analyze pole data in SPIDA®calc to evaluate utility poles under multiple wind loading conditions.
- Use SPIDA®calc-generated safety factors to interpret existing, or As-Is, pole conditions and determine whether a pole is safe in its current state or should be replaced.
- Develop remediation solutions in SPIDA®calc by creating As-Design options for poles that do not meet minimum safety requirements.
- Build foundational skills in industry-standard pole loading analysis used by electric utilities, engineering firms, and contractors.
- Gain practical experience using SPIDA®calc to support safe, reliable utility infrastructure planning.
- Learn a valuable skill that can help prepare you for entry-level roles in utility planning, engineering support, and utility operations.
Who Should Enroll
- Utility planners, designers, and engineering technicians.
- Employees of electric utility companies seeking to develop or enhance their pole loading analysis skills.
- Engineers, contractors, and consultants involved in utility design, planning, and infrastructure projects.
- Individuals pursuing careers in electric utility planning or engineering support.
- Students enrolled in the Electric Utility Planner Certificate Program who wish to complete the SPIDA®calc elective course.
- Anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of SPIDA®calc as a standalone professional development course.
Software & System Requirements
Students will receive a SPIDA®calc software license and installation instructions prior to the first class.
Important:
- SPIDA®calc is supported on Windows operating systems only (Windows 10 or Windows 11).
- Mac (macOS) computers are no longer supported and cannot be used for this course.
- Students must install and test the software before the first class meeting.
- Students should use the same Windows-based computer for both SPIDA®calc and Zoom during class. This allows participants to share their screen with the instructor when needed.
Program Outline
- Utility-owned pole data that has been pre-collected and documented on worksheets. (10% of exam)
- Compare field-collected worksheet data against pictures to ensure accuracy of the field conditions. (10% of exam)
- Enter worksheet data into SPIDA®calc to analyze poles under different wind conditions in order to obtain a Safety Factor for the As-Is conditions. (40% of exam)
- How to remediate poles (i.e., create As-Design options) when a pole is found to be less than the minimum acceptable safety factors. (40% of exam)
Stephen Kerman has served as a SPIDA®calc and pole loading subject matter expert and trainer for more than 15 years. He brings over 24 years of experience in planning and pole-related roles, including planner, training specialist, supervisor, deteriorated pole project manager, and manager of project managers. He also holds an MBA with a concentration in information systems. Stephen understands poles, knows SPIDA®calc, and, most importantly, enjoys teaching others.
This course is sponsored by SPIDA Software
Serving the electric and telecommunication industries since 2007, SPIDA Software’s cost-effective Structure Management System is a unique platform developed to create a digital twin of utility overhead systems and a centralized portal for the coordination of activities including joint use and engineering. The platform includes SPIDA®calc, the industry’s leading structural analysis software, and SPIDAstudio, the first-ever scalable, on-demand platform for the oversight of activity, analysis, and management of asset structural health. SPIDA Software’s solutions are developed and supported by a knowledgeable, passionate staff with extensive industry experience.
For additional information if needed:
https://www.spidasoftware.com/solutions/calc
