If you were to poll a random sample of local high school or college students about their career aspirations, not many would have electrical line work at the top of their lists. And truthfully, anyone considering a career in the utility industry would be wise to carefully consider this specific role.
Line work is no picnic. Lineworkers often must battle the elements and work long, irregular hours to restore outages as quickly and safely as possible. They take on many of the challenges of a first responder’s dangerous work with perhaps less recognition, and, through it all, they must maintain a friendly and professional demeanor as a member-facing representative of their employer. But for the right person, the job’s rigors are more than offset by its rewards.
South Plains Electric Cooperative’s lineworkers have lit up our members’ lives since 1937, powering people’s dreams and empowering them to achieve their goals. From providing the lamplight that our members study by to the internet connectivity most of us need to move ahead professionally, electricity is the unseen, often unconsidered workhorse humming in the background. Our linemen are the unsung facilitators of this energy source and form a brotherhood in their daily reckoning with and management of this volatile but crucial resource.
That’s why we honor them annually on National Lineman Appreciation Day, April 8 this year.
While we are nearing the end of another school year, remember that the Cooperative offers great career opportunities for a variety of positions. The highest demand continues to be for linemen. If you want a rewarding, high-paying career, consider line work. There are specialized, technical colleges that teach line work basics, and the Cooperative has a structured program to take you from apprentice to journeyman. We offer part-time positions with our line crews so you can get a first-hand look at the work. Please contact Tahnee Truitt, our director of human resources, if you’d like to know more.
Since there is no equivalent day of tribute for our equally integral behind-the-scenes staff at the Cooperative and other crew members, we ask that you include all our employees in your expressions of gratitude this month. South Plains Electric works as a team to keep your lights on. Some of our workers risk life and limb in the aftermath of torrential rain while others weather storms of a different sort. Member service representatives often absorb the brunt of members’ frustrations, and system operators must allocate Co-op resources and personnel effectively and efficiently during chaotic weather events, often while juggling other tasks.
Please join us this month in thanking all lineworkers and electric Cooperative employees. Their service and pride brighten our community immeasurably!
