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Celebrating the Backbone of Electrical Services: National Lineworker Appreciation Day

On April 18 each year, Duke Energy takes time to honor its lineworkers during National Lineworker Appreciation Day. This significant observance gives recognition to the immense dedication, hard work, and sacrifices of lineworkers who play a crucial role in ensuring the public has access to safe and reliable electricity.

Lineworkers are often the unsung heroes of the utility sector. They work tirelessly in a variety of challenging conditions, ranging from hazardous weather to extreme heights, ensuring that power is restored swiftly and safely after outages. They often work long hours, especially during emergencies triggered by natural disasters like hurricanes and storms. Their unwavering commitment to public safety and service is vital to maintaining electricity flow, especially in communities that rely on it for business and daily life.

The Importance of Lineworkers in Crisis Recovery

A paramount example of the crucial roles lineworkers play was highlighted during Hurricane Helene, which struck in September 2024. This catastrophic storm required an unprecedented response from Duke Energy. The aftermath saw lineworkers restoring power for over 3.1 million customers across several states, demonstrating their reliability and expertise.

In numbers, the effects of Hurricane Helene were staggering. The restoration efforts involved 23,000 field personnel from more than 19 states and Canada. Lineworkers skillfully replaced 14,000 power poles and laid down 9 million feet of new wiring, showcasing their critical skills and resilience in the face of adversity.

Duke Energy’s workforce included more than 10,000 lineworkers, along with specialized teams like substation and relay technicians who ensure the consistent distribution of energy. Substation technicians manage the overall distribution process at substations, while relay technicians ensure electrical equipment is functioning correctly.

In the past few years, Duke Energy has been proactive in supporting its lineworker community. Since 2020, the Duke Energy Foundation has invested over $3.3 million into programs aimed at supporting lineworker initiatives and education. This investment not only helps improve the skills and training of existing workers but also encourages new talent to enter this essential field.

Growing Demand for Lineworkers

As infrastructure needs grow with the development of smarter energy grids, the demand for skilled lineworkers continues to increase. Duke Energy collaborates with over 22 community colleges that offer dedicated lineworker training programs throughout its service regions in the Carolinas, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky.

Scott Batson, senior vice president and chief power grid officer, acknowledges the importance of the lineworker teams. He notes, "Our customers live and work in some of the most vibrant, fastest-growing areas of the country. We can meet energy needs efficiently largely due to our line teams’ commitment to safety and excellence."

Personal Perspectives from Lineworkers

Lineworkers themselves echo this sentiment. Harrison Cochran, an apprentice lineworker in North Carolina, shares his experience, saying, "Working for Duke Energy is really rewarding. My colleagues and I have so much gratitude for the ability to help our customers and restore power. Our team is always ready to sacrifice time to get the lights back on or to mentor apprentices on essential skills needed for building our future grid."

Celebrating National Lineworker Appreciation Day is about more than just acknowledgment; it is an opportunity to reflect on the indispensable role these professionals play in our communities and recognize their hard work—often done in perilous circumstances. These dedicated individuals form the backbone of our power system, ensuring that even in moments of crisis, reliability and safety remain paramount.

Looking Ahead

As Duke Energy continues its journey towards an innovative energy future, its lineworkers will remain at the forefront, adapting to the evolving needs of electricity infrastructure. The dedication showcased on National Lineworker Appreciation Day serves as a reminder to recognize not just the work they do but also the safety and accessibility of energy that millions depend on every day. Duke Energy, through continuous investment in both infrastructure and workforce, is committed to ensuring a reliable energy source for its customers in the years to come.

For more insights into the work of Duke Energy lineworkers and the various initiatives to support them, additional resources including media content and imagery are available on their official website.