EEI, IBEW and NECA observe National Lineworkers Appreciation Day
The Edison Electric Institute (EEI), along with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) are observing National Lineworker Appreciation Day on July 10.
National Lineworker Appreciation Day, celebrated annually, honors the life and work of Henry Miller, the first IBEW president, along with more than 100,000 electrical lineworkers throughout the nation.
“The IBEW’s founder Henry Miller dedicated his life to the cause of dignity and respect for all lineworkers,” IBEW International President Kenneth Cooper said. “On this day we as a nation come together to honor America’s lineworkers for all they do for our communities. Their commitment, professionalism, and bravery, keeps our homes, schools, hospitals, and economy running and every American owes them a debt of gratitude.”
Lineworkers are also being honored in Washington, as more than 75 members of Congress are observing National Lineworker Appreciation Day by cosponsoring resolutions to honor America’s lineworkers.
U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA) said she was proud to cosponsor legislation to recognize Monday as Journeyman Lineworker Recognition Day. “Each day, our nation’s journeyman lineworkers are on the front lines ensuring we have access to the safe, reliable, affordable and clean energy we need,” Rep. Trahan tweeted.
Lineworkers often work around the clock and in dangerous conditions following major weather events and catastrophes – like hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, winter storms, and other extreme weather events. As a result of their efforts, they allow the customers and the communities they serve to have access to safe and reliable electricity.
EEI President and CEO Tom Kuhn said EEI and its member companies applauded the industry’s lineworkers for the tireless work they do. “Whether it is wildfires, hurricanes, tornadoes, ice storms, or anything in between, our nation’s brave lineworkers always rise to the challenge. They are heroes, and we commend their commitment to restoring power safely and as quickly as possible for our customers and the communities we serve,” Kuhn said.
“Society as we know it would not exist without our brave lineworkers who endure extreme conditions daily to power our homes, schools, and hospitals,” NECA CEO David Long added. “We not only thank these highly skilled professionals for their dedication to our communities, but acknowledge the hazards they face and the sacrifices they make to keep electricity flowing throughout our country.”
