If you were asked to associate an image or a person with Palmetto Electric Cooperative, I bet you would picture a lineworker. Perhaps the most visible employees of the co-op, lineworkers work tirelessly to ensure our community receives safe, reliable power.

“Lineworker” is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as lineworkers perform difficult tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, they may be required to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions. Lineworkers must climb 40 feet on a pole, often carrying heaving equipment, to get the job done. They also carry the burdens of getting home safely to their families and getting your power back on.

Being a lineworker is not always a glamorous or easy profession. It takes years of specialized training, ongoing education and, equally important, a sense of service and commitment. How else can you explain their willingness to leave the comfort of their homes to tackle a challenging job in difficult conditions, when most are sheltering at home?

Throughout the past year, our lineworkers have remained dedicated to providing dependable power when our members needed it most. Palmetto Electric’s 2020 Annual Report, which is featured in the center of April’s issue of South Carolina Living, shares details about how the cooperative responded to the many challenges of this past year, including how our lineworkers worked to restore power following natural disasters such as tornadoes, hurricanes and ice storms, both here at home and in neighboring states. Their dedication and sense of service to the community is what truly makes them special.

While lineworkers may be some of the most visible employees at Palmetto Electric, it’s important to note that there is a team of highly skilled professionals working together behind the scenes to deliver the service and reliability you deserve. Without our entire staff and their commitment to service, our lineworkers wouldn’t be able to “bring the light” to our community.

This year, Lineworker Appreciation Day will be observed on April 12.  I hope you will join us in celebrating those who work around the clock to keep the lights on. We are thankful for their exceptional service.  Our lineworkers are proud to represent Palmetto Electric, and they deserve all the recognition that comes their way.