Heroes in Hard Hats: The Life of Electric Cooperative Linemen
From dirt roads to city streets, a dedicated group of individuals work tirelessly, often unnoticed, to help ensure that life as we know it continues uninterrupted. These are the linemen of electric membership cooperatives (EMCs), the unsung guardians of our electrical grid. Through the voices of Southern Rivers Energy Linemen Matthew Atkinson, Nick Hemby, Parker McWaters and Noah Weiss, and Safety Coordinator Jaret Burkett, we dive into the world of those keeping our lights on, highlighting their dedication, challenges and the profound impact of their work on our communities.
From 30 feet up in a bucket truck, the world below begins to look different. Our linemen get a firsthand look at everyday life. On sunny, calm days, it’s sometimes easy to forget the nights that keep Southern Rivers Energy (SRE) line crew members up at night.
“Linemen are sometimes the overlooked heroes, braving the worst elements to help ensure our homes remain comfortable and our lives uninterrupted. This month, we recognize and celebrate the role they play in keeping the lights on and our members connected,” says Safety Coordinator Jaret Burkett.
Earning the Title of Lineman
Becoming a lineman is no small feat. The journey involves rigorous training and education, spanning from formal instruction in electrical theory and safety to hands-on experience under the watchful eyes of seasoned professionals.
“Safety is our priority,” says Burkett, highlighting the continuous learning required to mitigate the risks inherent in working with high voltage. Linemen undergo years of training before earning the official title.
“Growing up with a dad who works on the line crew at Coweta-Fayette EMC, I’ve seen firsthand what it means to be part of the electric cooperative family. It’s not just about the skills you bring; it’s about having the right attitude, and a willingness to learn and share knowledge. That’s what makes a great lineman. For anyone looking to join this field, remember, it’s a career built on teamwork, safety, and continuing to train and learn,” says Parker McWaters, reflecting on the influence his father’s career played on his path to becoming an apprentice lineman.
Typically, new hires start on the ground, helping crews with tools and keeping job sites safe. After completing an apprenticeship, which usually lasts four years, and with thousands of hours of training, you are eligible to complete the courses needed to move up to journeyman lineman status—that’s when you’re considered officially trained in your field. But the education doesn’t stop there. As a lineman, you continuously receive training to remain mindful of safety requirements and stay up to date on the latest equipment and procedures.
A Brotherhood in Boots
At the heart of this profession lies a strong sense of brotherhood and camaraderie. Linemen rely on each other for support, sharing knowledge and experiences.
“It’s a family. In this work, you have to depend on the person beside you in life-or-death circumstances. We look out for each other,” says Journeyman Lineman Nick Hemby. “If it weren’t for the work we do every day, the daily life that our members are used to wouldn’t exist. Linemen work long hard hours, helping ensure that power is on. While our friends or families are sitting in the safety of their home, complaining that the lights have been out for an hour, I’m somewhere in the middle of a right-of-way, getting soaked in the freezing rain and wind, doing everything I can to restore their power.”
The First Responders
The impact of linemen extends far beyond the poles and wires that span our service territory. In times of crisis, such as during storms or fires, their efforts are pivotal in rebuilding shattered communities.
“Seeing the relief on people’s faces when the lights come back on—it’s indescribable,” says newly promoted SRE Journeyman Lineman Matthew Atkinson.
“Yeah, going into communities that have just been hit by a tornado, hurricane or severe storm can tug on your heartstrings,” Burkett adds. “Our guys are often first on the scene of an emergency, seeing things that are devastating like car accidents, structure fires and damage from severe storms. It is heartbreaking to see people’s lives destroyed so quickly. Linemen are usually there rebuilding lines and turning the power on to those we can before anyone else comes to start rebuilding or recovering what they have lost.”
The heroism of linemen is not confined to moments of disaster, but is a constant, enduring force. Their work, though often performed out of sight, is indispensable to our daily lives.
Reflections and Appreciation
“This job demands a commitment to safety and a deep respect for teamwork. Every day brings a new challenge, such as battling the elements so power needs are met with precision. The skills and discipline I developed in the military have been invaluable in adapting to this demanding and rewarding career,” says Apprentice Lineman Noah Weiss.
“The daily tasks of a lineman are physically demanding, but you won’t hear any of us complain (too much). I know what I signed up for—loading heavy materials, climbing poles, and in and out of buckets. To anyone considering a career as a lineman, remember this: Hard work, drive and a willingness to learn and lead are your most valuable tools. This job isn’t just about building a grid; it’s about building respect, too. I challenge our new guys, you have to work every day in a way that gains the respect of the men above and below you. That’s the foundation of excelling in a career in this field,” adds Atkinson.
Lineman Appreciation Day is April 8. Let’s celebrate the men behind our electric grid. In their boots and hard hats, they are a testament to the co-op’s commitment to serve and improve the quality of life for our members and community.