Ever wondered who braves the storms to get our power back on? Meet the linemen of Huntsville Utilities, who face the dark to bring our communities light.
“Linemen are the crucial members of the Huntsville Utilities team who are directly responsible for delivering electricity to our customers. Linemen are the ones who physically connect and maintain the infrastructure that makes the delivery of power possible. Without them, the electricity wouldn’t reach homes and businesses,” says Wes Kelley, president and CEO of Huntsville Utilities.
Huntsville Utilities employs a diverse group of linemen who are highly trained across multiple specialties. Some are experts in the big, high-voltage (46kV) transmission line maintenance and construction, while others focus on the installation and repairs of the power lines you see running overhead in your neighborhood (12kV). One team specializes in underground power systems. Another is responsible for identifying and resolving issues with power outages and street lighting systems, and the service crew keeps our homes and businesses connected to the power grid. Beyond linemen, Huntsville Utilities also employs highly skilled Substation Electricians who make sure the electricity gets distributed safely and reliably. Thanks to their broad training, linemen can expertly manage various electrical systems, providing reliable service to the community.
While the job is physically demanding, mental and emotional resilience are equally important for a lineman’s success. Think about it: they’re working high up on a pole, maybe in the pouring rain, and everyone’s power depends on them. That takes mental toughness–the ability to stay calm and focused even when things get stressful. It also requires emotional toughness because the job can be demanding with long hours, dangerous weather, and the weight of public safety on their shoulders. Intelligence is key, since linemen need a solid understanding of electrical systems and top-notch problem-solving skills to quickly figure out what’s wrong and how to fix it. Finally, linemen need to be self-starters, because they’re often working independently and must take initiative.
Climbing the ranks as a Huntsville Utilities lineman begins as a utility worker, gaining valuable experience and getting to know the team. From there, utility workers can apply for apprenticeship positions. A key requirement for all apprenticeships is a Pole Climbing Certification. Successful candidates will then embark on a comprehensive four-year apprenticeship program, fully accredited by the Alabama Office of Apprenticeship (AOA). Both beginning as a Utility Worker and applying directly for an apprenticeship offer excellent routes to a rewarding lineman career.
A lineman’s workday typically begins early, often requiring them to prepare for extended hours and potentially unpredictable situations. After arriving at the job site, linemen meet with their crew, receive assignments, and gather necessary materials. Because safety is top priority, they meticulously check their personal protective equipment (PPE) and dress appropriately for the weather. The crew conducts a job review and safety briefing, ensuring everyone understands their roles. Throughout the day, they focus on working hard while prioritizing safety, knowing that a safe day on the job means everyone will return home to their families. At the end of a regular workday, they stow PPE, clean the job site and trucks, and reflect on the day’s work, discussing challenges and potential improvements.
“Our linemen take pride in hard work and refuse to be defeated by challenges—“can’t” is never an option. They always find a way to get the job done,” says Kelley. “Above all, linemen are committed to doing what’s right, working with integrity, and supporting their teammates. They have each other’s backs, knowing that teamwork and trust are essential to completing the job safely and effectively.”
Next time you flip on a lightswitch or sigh in relief when your power is restored after an outage, take a moment to thank the brave linemen who made it possible. From scorching heat to biting cold, they answer the call. Linemen are the backbone of our electrified world.
