Powering through the storm: honoring linemen on National Lineman Appreciation Day

National Lineman Appreciation Day, celebrated every year on April 18, is dedicated to the skilled line workers who often work in dangerous and demanding conditions to ensure the lights stay on, homes stay warm, and individuals stay connected regardless of the weather or time of day.

“It’s a day that’s pulled out and set aside specifically to appreciate those folks that are out there working on the lines,” said John Twiest, CEO of Arrowhead Cooperative.

Twiest said, “And as we all know, typically, it doesn’t happen when the weather is nice. It’s not 70 and sunny, it’s going to be windy, it’s going to be nasty, likely cold, raining, sleeting, snowing, it’s just adverse weather conditions.”

There have been numerous severe weather events in Cook County where the Arrowhead Cooperative and City of Grand Marais public utility crews have spent evenings in cold, windy conditions repairing broken power poles, clearing downed trees, or a connector in a junction box that burned out and was short-circuiting.

To recognize the crews’ work, Arrowhead Cooperative hosted a lunch on April 14 to acknowledge and celebrate the Arrowhead Cooperative’s electric and telecom lineworkers responsible for maintaining 1,400 miles of line in Cook County.

WTIP asked listeners to share their thoughts and appreciation for the Arrowhead Cooperative and City of Grand Marais public utility crews to recognize the April 18 National Lineman Appreciation Day. The appreciation comments will be shared with the Arrowhead Cooperative and City of Grand Marais crews.  

“I have tremendous respect for all the linemen that help keep our electric grid running. I’ve learned a great deal about the dangerous work they do on a daily basis, especially since my retirement. Most of this knowledge was acquired by watching many of “Bobsdecline” YouTube videos, a lineman/content creator in eastern Canada. Be safe out there!” – Jeff Nemitz

“You are so appreciated being vital to the area, and prayers are sent many times for your safety.” – MARY AND BEN PETZ

“As a person who needs electricity to sleep because of sleep apnea, you linemen are essential to me. Thank you from the bottom of my chest!!!!!!!!!!!!!” – Anonymous

“We deeply appreciate all you do to keep our home safe. You do amazing work no matter what the weather. Thank you to all the wonderful crews and the people who support them.” –Anonymous

“As a member of the Arrowhead Cooperative board,  I am so appreciative of your commitment to keeping the lights and heat on for our members in all kinds of weather and your dedication to keeping each other safe in the field!  Kudos!”  – Donna Lunke

Kalli Hawkins April 18, 2025