Beech Tree News Network

April 8, 2024 (Bowling Green, KY) The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) has designated the second Monday of April as Lineman Appreciation Day. On this date each year, we celebrate the men and women that go out in the storm to ensure safe, reliable electricity is available to power our modern life.

Warren RECC linemen’s efforts and sacrifices are plain to see, especially during the storms of recent years. They are dedicated employees, who undergo approximately 7,000 hours of training and education to reach journeyman status. But the learning doesn’t stop there.

Linework is ranked one of the 10 most dangerous jobs in the country. When working with electricity, diligence and professionalism are absolute necessities, and linemen never stop training. Whether it’s on the job or in the classroom, linemen are constantly learning and maintaining the highest professional standards to keep everyone safe.

“Warren RECC was founded here and we’re still operated locally. Our members’ communities are our communities. Our linemen are deeply committed to ensuring our members have safe, reliable power to support their everyday lives. While most of us are taking cover during a storm, they are leaving their homes and families to head directly into it to make sure we stay comfortable. Today, we take the opportunity to thank them for their service. Without their hard work and dedication, our lives would be significantly different. If you see a lineman today, I encourage you to shake their hand and thank them for his hard work,” said Dewayne McDonald, President and CEO of Warren RECC.