Celebrated Every Day

Every second Monday in April, we stop, recognize and celebrate a group of workers that deserves to be in the spotlight every day. These people make sure we have things that we too often take for granted. These workers’ lives are also frequently interrupted to provide those things. These 2,060 lineworkers across Tennessee also put their lives on the line every single day. Every second Monday in April, we recognize Tennessee Lineworker Appreciation Day – but in reality, lineworkers deserve to be celebrated every day.

[INSERT CO-OP NAME] maintains [INSERT XXXX] miles of energized distribution line, and we keep the lights on [INSERT XX.XX] % of the time. While that remaining percentage might be what you focus on, especially when you are missing your favorite TV show or needing to get ready for work, I challenge you to think about the efficiency. Consider the work the lineworker is doing to make sure you have electricity – something you don’t even notice unless it isn’t working.

Lineworkers work countless hours to make sure your life, electricity-wise, goes as smooth and seamless as possible. While at the same time, their lives are frequently interrupted. Being a lineworker means the phone might ring at any time. Spouses are asked to leave during quality time with their significant other. Parents are asked to leave during family dinner. Grandparents are asked to leave during birthday parties. Their lives, and the lives of their loved ones, are impacted by what happens out on our distribution lines.

Simply put, being a lineworker is more than a job. They put their lives on the line every single day in what is considered one of the most dangerous jobs in the nation. These people are the first responders of our utility industry, and I personally appreciate all they do for our co-op and our community.

So, if you see one of our lineworkers around town, I hope you will take a moment to say thank you. Even if it isn’t on April 14, I know they will appreciate it.