On April 11, we honor our lineworkers on Lineworker Appreciation Day, which has been designated by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association as the second Monday in April. These brave men and women are on the front lines 24/7 year-round, doing whatever it takes to keep the lights on when conditions are at their worst.
To support these lineworkers, along with the 2,000 cooperative employees we represent, the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives built a 9,600-square-foot, state-of-the-art regional training center. It provides the tools and training necessary to prepare our lineworkers to perform their jobs safely. The top priority is making sure everyone returns home to their families.
One of the most rewarding programs that I’ve had the honor to be a part of is the Power Line Worker School at Southside Virginia Community College. Our VMD member cooperatives started this program with SVCC through donations of money, equipment, expertise and curriculum development. Since the program’s inception, more than 390 students have completed the 11-week program, with everyone getting an opportunity for employment by the time they graduate. It is truly a life-changing experience for these students.
We want to thank the VMD cooperative lineworkers that keep electricity flowing to more than 700,000 members across our three-state area, along with all the lineworkers that keep the lights on across this great country.
Brian S. Mosier, President & CEO
Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives