By Ken Schlimgen, General Manager
Lineworker Appreciation Day is observed on April 14 this year. As the General Manager of your cooperative, I have the privilege of witnessing the dedication and professionalism of our line workers and employees. Their work is essential to the life of this community, and while many are unaware of the full extent of their efforts, I want to give you a glimpse into what they face and why it matters so much.
The job of a line worker is considered by many to be dangerous, and from my perspective, I don’t disagree. Safety professionals in our industry have stated that the job of a line worker is unforgiving as you don’t often get a second chance. But that doesn’t deter line workers. Every single day, in all kinds of weather, they are in the elements, ensuring that power is delivered to your homes and businesses. Whether it’s scorching heat, freezing cold, or a storm battering the area, our line workers are there to make sure your lights stay on and your power stays running.
In my former role at the cooperative, I saw firsthand the conditions they work in. When you’re working around high-voltage electricity, any mistake can be deadly, but these individuals are trained to do their job safely. They undergo constant training that prepares them for the situations they face, and the learning never stops. They stay up to date with new techniques, safety protocols, and equipment, always with safety as the top priority.
The physical demands of the job are immense, but the team doesn’t complain. They work with heavy equipment, climb poles, get in and out of trenches, and carry heavy loads. It’s a physically demanding, often exhausting job, but they embrace it, knowing they are what ensures their neighbors have the electricity they rely on.
The sacrifices they make are also worth noting. Line workers are often the first responders to emergencies, arriving at the scene of car accidents, fires, or storm damage. They work in the dead of night, during holidays, and weekends, missing out on family events and personal time. But the payoff is knowing that they are helping their neighbors and friends. Their families understand the commitment, and their dedication is unwavering.
What truly stands out, though, is the sense of camaraderie. This team is like a family—one built on trust, teamwork, and a shared mission. In a job that can be challenging, having someone you can rely on next to you is priceless. It’s not just about restoring power; it’s about keeping your teammates safe while serving the community. Their bond is the backbone of the cooperative, and it shows in everything they do.
The pride in their work is evident. I’ve seen it time and time again: when the job is done, when the lights come back on, and when they hear that simple “thank you” from someone who’s been waiting in the dark, it makes all the effort worthwhile. It’s that satisfaction, knowing they’ve made a difference, that keeps them going no matter the challenges they face.
Our cooperative is made up of people who are deeply connected to this community. We live here, we work here, and we raise our families here. If your lights are off, there’s a good chance ours are too. So, know that when our lineworkers are out there, they are giving everything they have to get the power back on as quickly and safely as possible.
District Meetings
Your cooperative will be hosting district meetings in every county we serve from mid-May through mid-June. Director elections will be held in Miner, Sanborn and Jerauld Counties. Detailed information for these meetings can be found on page 15. Please attend to receive updates on the status of your cooperative, the projects we are involved in and the potential challenges we face. I look forward to seeing you there.
Until next month, stay safe!