Power Lineman Weekly Brief: June 24ā30, 2025
What a week itās been for power linemen! Weāve seen significant strides in workforce development, with new journeymen entering the field, alongside crucial infrastructure projects kicking off. Plus, thereās important discussion around grid resilience and the evolving demands on our electrical systems.
This Weekās Top Line News
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IBEW 1245 Engages at Trayer Switchgear
IBEW Local 1245 members were on-site at Trayer Switchgear this week, continuing their active involvement in the industry. This ongoing collaboration between the union and equipment manufacturers is key for addressing practical challenges and improving working conditions. It ensures that the tools and gear linemen use are not only practical but also safe from a workerās perspective, leading to tangible improvements in daily operations. These engagements highlight laborās proactive role in shaping the future of the trade.
Published: June 24, 2025
IBEW 1245 at Trayer Switchgear -
Cal-Nev JATC Celebrates New Journeyman Linemen
The Cal-Nev JATC proudly announced its newest class of journeyman linemen on June 26, with eight skilled individuals ready to join the workforce. This graduation is a crucial step in ensuring a steady supply of trained professionals for our nationās electrical infrastructure. It highlights the industryās dedication to developing a robust workforce capable of meeting growing demands and integrating new technologies. These new linemen are equipped with modern skills vital for maintaining grid reliability in an evolving landscape.
Published: June 26, 2025
Congratulations Cal-Nev JATC Graduates -
New Report Warns of Grid Affordability Challenges Amid Surging Demand
A new report released on June 30 warns that keeping electricity affordable will be a āformidable challengeā as demand increasingly shifts to tech and industrial customers. Experts predict electricity prices could climb by up to 25% in some areas by 2030, driven by necessary grid expansion and wildfire hardening efforts. This surge in demand, especially from power-quality-sensitive industrial loads, puts our grid under increasing stress. It means more frequent upgrades, maintenance, and emergency responses for linemen to ensure reliability and manage load fluctuations.
Published: June 30, 2025
Affordability a āformidable challengeā as load shifts to tech, industrial customers: ICF | Utility Dive
Tools & Tips
- Augmented Reality in Lineman Training Augmented Reality (AR) is changing the game for lineman training, making it safer and more effective. Tools like AR headsets can simulate pole-top rescues, provide hands-free access to schematics, offer real-time troubleshooting assistance from remote supervisors, and create safer high-voltage training environments. This technology allows linemen to practice dangerous tasks without real-life risks and visualize underground utilities before digging. The Future of Lineman Training: How Augmented Reality is Changing the
- MADI Insulated 2-in-1 Ratcheting Speed Wrench For those looking to power up their performance, the MADI Insulated 2-in-1 Ratcheting Speed Wrench is designed for linemen demanding safety and precision. This innovative tool streamlines work with its dual functionality and insulation for added protection. Itās a great example of how specialized tools continue to evolve to meet the unique demands of the job, enhancing both efficiency and safety in the field. MADI Lineman Tools ā Lineroots Supply
Fun Fact
Did you know that in the 1930s, at the dawn of modern electric power, one in every two linemen tragically died on the job? This alarming reality spurred innovation, leading Marvin Bevins to invent the Analog Phasing Tester in 1943, a crucial safety device that revolutionized how linemen worked with live power lines. His invention, initially made from wood, evolved into the safer epoxyglass sticks we use today, marking a pivotal moment in lineman safety.
Bevinsā History & Lineman Safety ā Bevins Co.
Weād love to hear from you!
Have you participated in any Power Lineman events or utilized new lineman tools recently? Share your experiences or insights with usāweāre featuring selected community voices in next weekās edition.