National Grid celebrates Lineman Appreciation Day

Company honors lineworkers who maintain service for more than 1.6 million customers

Through wind, rain, blazing sun, sleet and snow, National Grid's lineworkers are always on the job. Today, the company celebrates Lineman Appreciation Day, honoring its 1,459 field employees in New York who work to keep the power on for 1.6 million customers. The company's electric lineworkers are central to maintaining more than 55,000 miles of power lines across its service in the state.

"Our lineworkers are out here every day and in all conditions, from blue skies to dangerous storms," said John Bruckner, senior vice president of U.S. operations at National Grid. "Their hard work, expertise and extensive knowledge make it possible for us to serve our customers safely and reliably. We deeply appreciate and respect the work they do."

National Grid lineworkers operate and maintain overhead and underground electric lines and substations in upstate New York. These systems deliver electricity to consumers at a voltage they can use safely for their daily commercial and residential needs.

"These are the men and women on the front lines. They work tirelessly to maintain and improve our system year-round, so that we can consistently deliver for our customers across our network," said Keith McAfee, vice president of New York electric operations. "Our employees are some of the best and brightest in our industry. They are well-trained and prepared for anything."

The U.S. Senate passed a resolution (S. Res. 95) in 2013 designating April 18 as National Lineman Appreciation Day to honor the "brave men and women who protect public safety." Some organizations, such as the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, recognize the day by celebrating it on the second Monday of April each year.