The life of a line worker isn’t easy. Heights, inherent danger in live electrical lines, extreme weather and storm ravaged conditions are features of common workday.
In spite of the hazards and challenging typical workplace conditions, they play a singularly important role as essential workers.
That’s why appreciation streamed in for Journeyman Lineworkers Recognition Day on July 10, the anniversary of IBEW founder Henry Miller’s death.
Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle praised the 120,000 line workers who wire and maintain transmission and distribution lines, keeping the power flowing in the U.S.
“Every day, line workers rise to the challenge – often working long hours in hazardous conditions – to keep the lights on and our communities running,” said California’s Linda Sánchez, the first woman member of the IBEW elected to Congress. “From rebuilding the grid after major storms to maintaining the systems that power our daily lives, their steadfast dedication ensures that our communities stay connected.”
Sanchez and Donald Norcross of New Jersey, a wireman by trade and member of Folsom Local 351, joined more than 140 members of Congress with the resolution.
“America’s line workers are heroes in every sense of the word, putting their own safety on the line day in and day out to provide the electricity that powers every aspect of our modern lives,” said IBEW International President Kenneth W. Cooper. “Honoring them on this day is fitting, but our gratitude for them and the work they do lasts year-round. The IBEW is proud to represent the best of the best of our nation’s line workers and to thank them for all they do for all of us.”
The date commemorates the life of the IBEW’s first president Henry Miller, who founded the union in 1891 in part to improve safety conditions during the earliest days of America’s electrification, when one of every two linemen died on the job. Miller died in Washington, D.C. after falling from a pole as he rewired downed storm lines in 1896.
