While it takes each employee across all departments to keep operations running smoothly at Edgecombe-Martin County EMC, one of the more visible jobs is that of a line technician. It’s no secret that a line technician’s job is tough—but it’s a job that’s essential and must be done, often in challenging conditions. This month, as we celebrate Line Technician Appreciation Day on April 8, we want to share some facts about electric line technicians with you.

Electricity travels along a network of wires and poles to power our homes and businesses. Most of the time, this is a seamless journey. Still, occasionally the path of electricity is disrupted by obstacles like fallen tree branches, animals, or an equipment malfunction—and line technicians are responsible for restoring that connection no matter the weather or time of day. Electric line technicians are on call 24/7 in case severe storms or other circumstances cause a power outage. Line technicians work with high-voltage electricity, often at great heights, in all kinds of weather conditions, such as snow, wind, rain, ice, and extreme heat and cold.

The work required to maintain the power grid is physically demanding. Our line technicians undergo extensive training and follow numerous protocols to ensure safety as they maintain our lines and restore power. In addition to serving their communities, line technicians are also called on to provide aid across the state and nation following major storms and during other times of need. This commitment to “Cooperation Among Cooperatives” is one of the core principles that demonstrates the true strength and character of the cooperative network.

Although everyone at Edgecombe-Martin County EMC works hard to provide reliable service, we salute our line technicians who work around the clock to keep the power on. Their safety, as well as yours, is our top priority.