3 Escambia River Electric Staffers Make Progress in Their Linework Journey
By Cortney Owens
At Escambia River Electric Cooperative, becoming a lineworker isn’t just a job—it’s a journey. It takes time, training, and a strong commitment to safety and teamwork.
Jacob Polk, JD Atkins, and Jacob Roberts, all graduates of Jay High School, started the lineman certification process in June.
As part of their training, these apprentices travel 1 week each year to attend courses offered by the Tennessee Valley Public Power Association. The program provides the foundational education and hands-on experience necessary for a career in linework. Apprentices are introduced to essential topics such as basic math, electricity, and alternating current—core concepts that explain the “hows and whys” behind what they do in the field.
Apprentices learn how to tie basic knots, operate climbing equipment, string and sag wire, maintain underground distribution systems, perform line maintenance, understand meter applications, and climb poles as tall as 90 feet. Each course ends with a final exam to test their knowledge and progress.
Jacob Polk says safety is the number 1 thing he’s learned so far.
“It always comes first,” he says.
He started working part-time as a maintenance worker at EREC while still in high school. That experience sparked his interest in line work. After graduating, he moved from maintenance to the right-of-way crew for about 10 months. He’s now been doing on-the-job training with a line crew for nearly 3 years.
JD says his main goal was finding a solid career close to home, something that would allow him to support his family. Line work turned out to be the perfect fit. He spent 2½ years on the ROW crew and just less than a year in underground services. JD recently completed his first apprentice lab.
1 of the biggest lessons he’s learned is to stay open-minded and always pay attention to what you’re doing.
His favorite part of the job?
“Getting the lights back on and getting to travel to help during storms,” he says.
Jacob Roberts was on the ROW crew for 3 years before starting the lineworker program. Like many others, he was drawn to the trade because he wanted a hands-on career where he could make a real difference in the community. 1 of the biggest things he’s learned so far is the importance of teamwork.
“You’re never out there alone—it takes a crew to get the job done safely,” Jacob says.
Jacob says he looks forward to coming to work every day and being part of a great crew that supports each other.
EREC Director of Operations Glenn White knows firsthand what it takes to become a lineworker. Glenn has been with the co-op for 42 years, including 34 years as a lineworker before moving into a management role.
“We’re proud of these young men and the work they’re putting in,” Glenn says. “It’s not an easy path, but it’s a rewarding 1. Watching them grow and gain confidence out in the field reminds me why I love this work.
“They’re the future of EREC, and they’re doing a great job.”
These apprentices prove every day that hard work, heart, and a team-first attitude go a long way. We’re proud to support them as they move toward their goal, and we’ll be cheering them on every step of the way.