They’re the ones who brave storms, climb poles and work around the clock to keep the lights on. Linemen are the backbone of safe, reliable and affordable electric service, answering the call when communities need them most. It’s a demanding job — physically, mentally and emotionally — yet those who choose this path often say they wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Here’s what a few of them who work for Jackson EMC had to say when asked why they became a lineman:
Austin Lewis
Lineman, Neese
Austin started his career with Pike Electric before coming to Jackson EMC in 2022.
“Being a lineman is special because you get to have a great time with your co-workers. It’s special to be a part of working here because of the tight bond within this cooperative.”
Stephen Whitson
Lineman, Jefferson
Stephen was studying for an associate’s degree in electrical utility technology at Lanier Technical College when he got an internship at Jackson EMC. He has been a lineman for almost 4 years.
“One of the reasons I became a lineman is for the challenges. There are constantly challenges and always opportunities to grow and learn. It also gives me the opportunity to serve others daily. It’s been a great way for me to provide for my family.”
Jackson Murray
Lineman, Gainesville
Jackson started his career by attending a lineman training school, after speaking to linemen about the industry. He has been a lineman for 5 years.
“I enjoy being able to help others and do a job that has meaning and add value to the community. I also enjoy the brotherhood of being a lineman and enjoy working with everyone.”
Sal Mendoza
Lineman, Gwinnett
Sal started his career as a lineman by attending a training school. After graduating, he had multiple job offers and decided Jackson EMC was the best for his family. He has been a lineman for more than 4 years.
“When I moved to Georgia from Texas, I wanted something more out of life, a more fulfilling career. I’m a veteran and a friend shared a photo of him on social media in a bucket truck. I thought, ‘This seems pretty exciting.’ I reached out to him and he recommended lineman school. Becoming a lineman has given me a great sense of pride since leaving the service. It’s more than just working on power lines – it’s the support and respect we get from our members and our duty to provide great service.”
Carl started his career in the gas department of a utility in Knoxville, Tennessee. He later became an equipment operator then apprentice lineman before moving with his family to Georgia in 2005. He’s been at Jackson EMC for 20 years.
“It takes mental, physical and emotional strength to be a lineman. Mentally, you have to be focused on the job to keep yourself, your co-workers and the public safe. Physically, you endure long hours in extreme weather conditions. Emotionally, you have to be able to miss holidays and events with your loved ones. Being able to restore power for people means a lot to me. Fortunately, my spiritual gift is service. I have spent 35 years serving my community.”
Luke Braud
Lineman Apprentice, Gwinnett
Luke joined Jackson EMC in 2023, after working at a municipal utility following high school.
“I became a lineman because it’s a job not everyone wants to do. And, it’s a great career choice with many different options to progress. This is a job that’s very important and essential for the community.”
Todd Baxter
Journeyman Lineman, Jefferson
Todd started his career at Jackson EMC. He’s been a lineman for 12 years.
“I’ve had different jobs at Jackson EMC, but being a lineman means you have the potential to be working a range of hours and in the nastiest weather conditions you can imagine. When you’re a lineman, you may lose time and sleep, but it’s one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve done. It’s been very rewarding to see the gratitude from members when we get their power restored.” Journeyman Lineman, Jefferson Todd started his career at Jackson EMC. He’s been a lineman for 12 years. “I’ve had different jobs at Jackson EMC, but being a lineman means you have the potential to be working a range of hours and in the nastiest weather conditions you can imagine. When you’re a lineman, you may lose time and sleep, but it’s one of the most rewarding jobs I’ve done. It’s been very rewarding to see the gratitude from members when we get their power restored.”
Brandon Sanders
Journeyman Lineman, Neese
Brandon started his career at 19 at Raylee EMC, based in Washington, Ga. He has been a lineman for 20 years.
“I grew up on a farm and enjoyed being outside. I played sports since I was 5 years old. I became a lineman because I enjoy being outside and doing physical activities. This job is very goal-oriented and teamwork is important. You’re also serving the public by ensuring they have electric service.”
(EDITOR’S NOTE: The story you just read came from a Jackson EMC news release with minor editing for clarity and brevity.)