After Hurricane Sandy hit the United States in 2012, the 113th Congress passed a bill designating April 18 as National Lineman Appreciation Day. The bill later became law in 2013. At Dixie Electric, we value our team of skilled linemen, and I want to take this opportunity to recognize them for the work they do.
You might be wondering why we have a whole day dedicated to linemen. First, linemen are the backbone of our electric cooperative. Utility lineworkers rank as one of the top 10 most dangerous professions. They brave the elements, often working in dangerous conditions, to ensure that our members stay connected and to restore power to our homes and communities. Linemen must be aware of their surroundings and the safety of the person next to them. Their work requires concentration, and there is no margin for error, so we’ve worked to build a culture of trust, teamwork, and service.
It’s not just during emergencies that our linemen make a difference. They stand ready to power every moment of your day, every day. They maintain our infrastructure, complete upgrades to our system, and ensure that we deliver safe and reliable electricity to our members. Their work is physically demanding, including loading heavy materials, climbing poles, and in and out of bucket trucks, often carrying 40 pounds or more of personal protective equipment with them.
Linemen also spend thousands of hours training and learning throughout their career. Their dedication is nothing short of extraordinary and a testament to their commitment to powering our local communities. Our linemen continuously receive training to stay mindful of safety requirements and up-to-date on the latest equipment and procedures.
In addition to their skills and expertise, linemen also embody the spirit of community. Whether it’s volunteering their time to assist with local events or going above and beyond to help a member in need, our linemen truly exemplify what it means to be part of a cooperative community. They sacrifice sleep, holidays, and, more than anything, time with family. And especially for those with younger families, they miss ball games, school events, family gatherings, and watching their kids grow up, to keep your lights on because they know that you depend on them.
To our linemen – thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your steadfast dedication to our members. You are the unsung heroes of our community, and we are incredibly grateful for everything you do.