- Categories:
- Appreciation
- Tags:
- CareerHistoricalWork
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every April 18
- Holiday emoji:
- ⚡
Lineman Appreciation Day energizes our gratitude every April 18, recognizing the courageous men and women who work tirelessly to keep our power and communication lines running. From restoring power after storms to maintaining critical infrastructure, their dedication is essential. Take a moment to acknowledge their vital contributions, share your appreciation online, and support initiatives that ensure their safety and well-being.
Want to sponsor Lineman Appreciation Day? Learn how
History of Lineman Appreciation Day
Benjamin Franklin is said to be the discoverer of electricity in the 1700s with his famous kite experiment, in which he flew a kite with a metal key tied to it during a thunderstorm. In the late 19th century, electricity was first introduced into people’s homes. It was in London that the world’s first electric street lights were set up in 1878.
The truth is that lineworkers have existed for as long as electricity has been a standard part of modern living. It is impossible to have power lines carrying electricity to our homes and businesses without them. They keep the lights on and the furnaces going.
Lineworkers often do their jobs in the most dangerous of conditions and have to face the worst weather conditions. However, bad weather is not the only danger in their career. The most dangerous task they must do every day is handling wires that pulse thousands of amps of current. These are the people in charge of restoring power, setting up emergency systems to carry us through, and putting life back in order when things get tough. In the U.S., there are 115,000 lineworkers, which puts more into perspective the fact that 67,000 of them responded to Superstorm Sandy.
Lineman Appreciation Day timeline
The introduction of telegraph lines on trees and poles for long-distance communication created the need for linemen.
Labor organizations eventually formed to represent the workers and advocate for their safety.
They traveled from city to city, making a good living and returning home between jobs.
Songwriter Jimmy Webb noticed a solitary lineman atop a pole while driving through southwestern Oklahoma, recalling it later as "the picture of loneliness."
Alan Drew's book "The American Lineman: Honoring the Evolution and Importance of One of the Nation's Toughest, Most Admired Professions" has over 500 photos and illustrations.
Lineman Appreciation Day FAQs
When is Lineman Appreciation Day?
In 2027, Lineman Appreciation Day is observed on Sunday, April 18, providing a full day for communities and individuals to express gratitude. It’s a chance to reflect on the critical role linemen play in our daily lives.
How many linemen are there in the U.S.?
The demand for skilled linemen remains steady, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting continued employment for around 119,000 professionals. These dedicated individuals work across various sectors, from local utilities to telecommunications.
What is the average salary for a lineman?
Linemen earn competitive wages due to the hazardous nature and specialized training required for their work. While specific figures fluctuate, the median annual salary typically remains strong, often exceeding $86,000, attracting dedicated individuals to this crucial trade.
Why is Lineman Appreciation Day celebrated on April 18?
The date April 18 was established by federal law in 2013, following a bill passed by Congress to formally recognize the contributions of linemen. It serves as a national day to acknowledge their selfless service and commitment to public safety.
Lineman Appreciation Day Activities
Say you appreciate them
Maybe you can spot one working in your neighborhood, or send your power company a note when they come through for you.
#thankalineman
Post on social media with this hashtag to encourage others to appreciate and recognize the important job that linemen do.
Donate to a fallen lineman
Nonprofits seek assistance for injured linemen and their families. Help out on this day.
5 Powerful Facts About Linemen (and Women)
Safety first
All linemen wear personal protective equipment that includes rubber gloves, rubber sleeves, flame-resistant clothing, and bucket liners.
"The Kiss of Life"
Rocco Morabito's famous 1967 photo captured a lineman giving an unconscious lineman mouth-to-mouth resuscitation while in a harness on a pole. The unconscious lineman survived and the picture became famous.
They receive good training
A lineworker apprentice takes part in a four-year training program before becoming a "Journey Lineworker."
The storm that kept lineman busy
Over 67,000 lineman responded to Hurricane Sandy in 2012.
All American
There are approximately 115,000 linemen in the U.S.
Why We Love Lineman Appreciation Day
They keep the power running
Think about going without power for just one day. Linemen work behind (or, actually above) the scene so we can keep our lives moving.
A risky occupation
Dealing with high voltage electrical wires at great heights is dangerous. Linemen are brave enough to get the job done.
They give up family time for us
They work tirelessly, often during odd hours, away from their families to address electrical problems.
