National studies consistently rank power line installers and repairers among the most dangerous jobs in the country, and for good reason. Laboring high in the air wearing bulky safety gear and working directly with high voltage creates the perfect storm of a dangerous and unforgiving profession. But electric lineworkers are up to the task. These brave men are committed to safety, as well as the challenges of the job.

Decatur County REMC’s lineworkers are responsible for keeping power flowing day and night, regardless of national holidays, vacations, birthdays, weddings or other important family milestones. Beyond the years of specialized training and apprenticeships, it takes internal fortitude and a mission-oriented outlook to be a good lineworker. In fact, this service-oriented mentality is a hallmark characteristic of their work. The job requires them to set aside their personal priorities to better serve their local community. 

Family Support System

To perform their jobs successfully, lineworkers depend on their years of training, experience and each other to get the job done safely. 

Equally important is their reliance on a strong support system at home. A lineworker’s family understands and supports its loved one’s commitment to the greater community during severe storms and power outages. 

This means in times of prolonged outages, the family and its lineworker may have minimal communication and not see each other for several days. Without strong family support and understanding, this challenging job would be all the more difficult. 

Community Commitment

In DCREMC’s territory and across the country, our lineworkers’ mission-focused mentality of helping others often extends beyond their commitment to their work here at the co-op. They are often familiar figures in the community and can be found coaching youth sports teams, volunteering for local charities and serving on local advisory boards. 

Thank You

Monday, April 8, is Lineworker Appreciation Day. Given the dedication of Decatur County REMC’s lineworkers, both on and off the job, I encourage you to take a moment and acknowledge the many contributions they make to our local community. And if you see their family members in the grocery store or out and about in the town, please offer them a thank you as well.