John Rezek's Heroic Actions Earn Him the Hardhat Safety Award

John Rezek: A Lineman's Remarkable Act of Heroism

In an inspiring display of courage and rapid response, John Rezek, a lineman affiliated with The E-J Group, has been awarded the prestigious Hardhat Safety Award at SAFEBUILD 2026. This honor, bestowed by the Building Trades Employers' Association of New York (BTEA), recognizes Rezek's exceptional actions during a life-threatening emergency on March 10, 2026.

While working on a remote railroad bridge, Rezek's day took a critical turn when a coworker from another subcontractor suffered a medical emergency. Without hesitation, Rezek sprang into action, taking immediate steps to provide life-saving assistance. His leadership was evident; he coordinated a response from others at the scene and successfully utilized an automated external defibrillator (AED). His decisive actions were integral to stabilizing the situation and ensuring his colleague received the necessary medical care to survive.

With approximately six years of experience in supporting complex transmission and distribution projects, John Rezek is more than just an award-winning lineman. He is trained and certified in various critical skills, including Pole Top Rescue, CPR, First Aid, and AED usage. His dedication to safety is reflected in his operational approach and the OSHA certifications he possesses. Beyond his professional skills, Rezek is also a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, which has equipped him with a unique blend of discipline, composure, and leadership abilities that shine through in all aspects of his work.

Colleagues and peers regard Rezek as a beacon of professionalism and integrity, often highlighting his selflessness and unwavering sense of responsibility. His actions during the emergency not only saved a life but also exemplified the highest standards of courage and commitment to safety in the construction industry.

The recognition will take place during the SAFEBUILD 2026 event, celebrating the construction sector's dedication to safety, innovation, and collaboration. This annual gathering serves as a platform for industry leaders to discuss advancements in safety protocols and best practices, alongside promoting the commitment of union contractors, represented by BTEA, toward enhancing safety standards across New York's construction landscape.

The E-J Group, Rezek's employer, is a highly respected entity in the electrical contracting sector. With over 4,000 employees and a national reputation built on 127 years of experience, E-J is known for its full-service electrical solutions, ranging from large-scale mission-critical infrastructure to innovative energy projects. The company prides itself on combining deep family expertise with cutting-edge technology, ensuring effective solutions for modern power and communication needs.

In honoring John Rezek, the industry not only recognizes an individual but also highlights the collective commitment to safety and excellence in construction practices. His story serves as an inspiration for all workers, demonstrating the importance of quick thinking, teamwork, and adherence to safety protocols in safeguarding lives.

For more information about The E-J Group and their commitment to excellence in electrical contracting, visit E-J Group's Website.