Early Years
I became aware of the industry when I was in eighth grade, and I started my pursuit from there. My Uncle Matt gave me insight after he started a job doing mapping and GIS at Midwest Energy. We both are still employed here at Midwest Energy.
Day in the Life
I started as a lineman intern at Midwest Energy. My current job title is journeyman lineman, and my main responsibilities include mentoring two apprentices. I am the bucket guy on our crew and work to make sure the young guys are involved and learning while getting work done safely and efficiently.
Challenges of Line Work
In our service territory in Kansas, we get a lot of different kinds of weather, and our line crews must be able to handle different conditions. We also have a lot of young guys on our crews, and I am responsible for helping to train them and instilling strong safety values in them.
Safety Lesson
After working many different storms, handling hot work scenarios and needing to adapt to situations around me, it has made a tremendous impact on how important safety is day in and day out. There's nothing more important than making sure everyone goes home at the end of every day.
Memorable Storm
We had a fire come through our territory in December of 2021. It burned more than 400,000 acres, and we lost 1000+ poles. This storm lasted for months.
Tools and Technology
I can’t live without battery-powered crimpers and cutters. The tools provide an immense amount of control in hot work situations and can save wear and tear on your body.
Future Plans
I would go into the power industry again. The amount of opportunity, relationships you make, satisfaction of completing a job and pay are things you don’t get in every field. I plan to continue doing the things I am currently doing while being the best leader I can be and always looking to grow in my career.
