I’ve spent most of my adult life in elected office, first as a county clerk in Mississippi and eventually in the U.S. House of Representatives. There are upsides in making a living in public service. For me, those were supporting investment in my community, helping constituents in difficult circumstances, and contributing to public policies that had bipartisan support. And yes, recognition in my community was an occasional perk.
However, there are many Americans who serve our cities and towns every day, and they don’t get the thanks or the recognition they deserve.
In this case, I am speaking about line workers, the men and women who maintain our electric grid. You know, the tradesmen who go up on power poles and put themselves in harm’s way to ensure we have reliable electricity 24/7/365.
I know this subject because my son is a lineman working for an electric cooperative. This family connection also means that I am aware of the level of professionalism and commitment that these workers bring to their jobs.
Make no mistake about it, being a lineman is a risky profession. Often, these workers are dispatched to restore electricity during severe weather events. That means they are climbing wet and slippery electrical poles high in the air, often with strong winds, and have to deal with all of the elements. Indeed, every year, linemen are injured and killed performing this dangerous vocation. Thankfully, these events are rare.
The deeply held commitment these linemen have to workplace safety is truly remarkable. My son and the people who work with him are serious about their safety and the well-being of everyone around them and the communities they serve. They take this responsibility solemnly.
Ultimately, line workers prioritize ensuring that the customers they serve have electricity; this takes precedence over their personal comfort. These linemen are keenly aware that many Americans rely on electricity for their well-being. This is especially true for vulnerable individuals who require uninterrupted electricity to operate medical devices, such as breathing assistance pumps and dialysis machines.
This is not to mention the general health benefits of having air conditioning during a scorching day or a stiflingly hot night. Without a doubt, air conditioning is crucial for the well-being of many.
I sincerely hope you have a greater appreciation for America’s linemen. These workers aren’t asking for gratitude or accolades. It is essential that we acknowledge the sacrifices these men and women make to ensure our quality of life.