Dedicated lineworkers at American Electric Power and our operating companies play a crucial role in maintaining and restoring power. They also demonstrate the importance of safety and rigorous training within the electric industry.
Recently, AEP President and CEO Bill Fehrman attended a graduation at the Pulaski Service Center in Virginia. After four years of intense training, these graduates are ready to become lineworkers. Fehrman emphasized the significance of safety and training, expressing his commitment to ensuring that employees are well-prepared for their careers.
“When you talk to Bill, there is no doubt that he prioritizes safety and wants the best for his employees,” shared Tracy Tuck, a member of the technical training staff.
Line crews embody this dedication to safety and preparedness, constantly training to tackle challenges in any weather conditions. Whether in sweltering summer heat or frigid winter temperatures, our lineworkers work tirelessly – sometimes on 16-hour shifts – to restore power after thunderstorms, hurricanes, floods and ice storms both at home and in communities far away. They are frequently among the first responders in these situations, ensuring that essential services are restored.
They routinely climb and work on 45- to 70-foot-high distribution poles and transmission towers exceeding 100 feet. Their safety is paramount, which is why they are required to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) – including hard hats, safety glasses and gloves designed to withstand up to 40,000 volts.
Beyond restoring power, they ensure that vital community needs – such as hospitals, schools, grocery stores and local businesses – remain powered, allowing life to flow seamlessly.
AEP maintains over 265,000 miles of power lines, and our teams support a vast and diverse service area covering 11 states and delivering power to nearly 5.6 million customers.