You most likely see the EnerStar Electric crews out and about, working on power lines and other electrical equipment in our community. It’s no secret that a lineworker’s job is tough––but it’s a job that’s essential and must be done, often in challenging conditions. This month, we celebrate Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 8. And because of the uniqueness of the job, we thought we’d share some interesting facts about electric lineworkers with you.

The work can be heavy in more ways than one. Did you know the equipment and tools that a lineworker carries while climbing a utility pole can weigh up to 50 pounds? That’s the same as carrying six gallons of water. Regarding utility poles, lineworkers are required to climb poles ranging from 30 to 120 feet tall. Needless to say, if you have a fear of heights, this likely isn’t the career path for you.

Lineworkers must be committed to their careers because it’s not just a job; it’s a lifestyle. The long hours and ever-present danger can truly take a toll. In fact, being a lineworker is listed among the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S.

Lineworkers often work non-traditional hours outdoors in difficult conditions. While the job does not require a college degree, it does require technical schooling and skills, years of training, and hands-on learning. Did you know that becoming a journeyman lineworker can take more than 8,000 hours of training (or about four years)? That’s because working with high-voltage equipment requires specialized skills, experience, and an ongoing mental toughness. Shortcuts are not an option, and this line of work has no room for error.

Despite the many challenges, EnerStar’s lineworkers are committed to powering our local communities. During severe weather events that bring major power outages, lineworkers are among the first ones called. They must be ready to leave the comfort of their home and families unexpectedly, and they don’t return until the job is done, often days later. That’s why the lineworker’s family is also dedicated to service. They understand the importance of the job to the community.

The EnerStar lineworkers are vital to keeping the power flowing 24/7, 365 days a year. To do this, they maintain 1,500 miles of power lines across five counties and 928 square miles.

In addition to the highly visible tasks lineworkers perform, their job today goes far beyond climbing utility poles to repair a wire or string fiber lines. Today’s lineworkers are information experts who can pinpoint power outages from miles away. As the grid becomes “smarter,” technology plays a vital role in all aspects of the job.

Being a lineworker may not seem like a glamorous job, but it is essential to our community’s life. Without the exceptional dedication and commitment of these hardworking men and women, we simply would not have the reliable electricity that we need for everyday life.

So, the next time you see a lineworker, please thank them for the work they do to keep power and internet flowing, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions. After all, lineworkers are the power behind your power. While all co-op employees play a vital role, this week, we recognize the line crews in the field. Watch for our employee spotlights this week on our social media channel as we #ThankALineworker