I have to agree in part.
My G/F is a poll worker and, although she states that the majority of the other poll workers are much older (she is 34), she does say that they generally are pretty sharp. The real problem are the instructors and the classes they all have to attend.
From what she tells me, their knowledge of electoral law and voting procedures is generally deficient, and unfortunately they are passing uninformed opinions and bad procedures on to people who really, regardless of party affiliation, want to do a decent job.
"Let voters practice voting on the equipment they will be using."
I agree, but even the poll workers only get a minimal time on the machines during the classes.
"Look to colleges, high schools, local governments and corporations for poll workers. "
That's all well and dandy, but:
A) How many students are going to get up at 4.00 am (poll workers have to be on station at 5.00 am) and stay at their posts until polling closes (9.00 pm)
B) Do you really want local govt. that heavily involved in polling.
C) Will corporations allow employees to serve and, if so, will the day be considered a fully paid vacation day, or will it be classified as unpaid leave.
Remember, the reason most poll workers are retired is because they do not have a job to go to.