High Power Lineman Apprenticeship

[No Bandwagon Here]

I was wondering if there are any Linemen out there that could give some insight into this job. Pros and Cons, Job security, etc. etc. Thanks!:pray

[4given]

Is it through a power company or through the IBEW? There is good job security through both of them. The benefits will be better through a state or local owned utility. If it is through the IBEW you better get used to living out of a suitcase and traveling. Which is not bad for a single guy, it is not a good life if you are married and have kids.

Most contractors that hire through IBEW do not pay per diem, so your hotel room and meals, when you are on the road you are responsible for. It really stinks paying for two places one at home and one on the road. Especially when you only spend some weekends at home.

Most of the contract crews are some pretty rough dudes. Out of two different crews of ten men each, I was one of two who did not drink or have a drinking problem. It is very hard to try and live a christian life in that enviornment.

If I had it to do all over again I would only do it if I could work for the utility company. Like here would be Georgia Power who is owned by Southern Company. Southern company is a good outfit to work for.

I quit working for contractors when I lived in Jax., Fla. after several accidents on our crews that were near fatal. There is no room for errors, and hungover drunks working outdoors in very hot weather is a recipe for disaster. Two of our apprentices were smoking pot on the job. Both of them were involved in the accidents of which I spoke.

[No Bandwagon Here]

BPA, it is a Federal position. Bonneville Power Administration. Union is the only way to go in my book.

[4given]

I am going to retire from a federal position within the next five years, unless the Lord comes first.

[No Bandwagon Here]

Thank you for your service! First to our Lord, next to our country! Which area of service? Is the federal union IBEW or another one?

[chrisb743]

I worked for our local utility for 4 years... Not a lineman.. but electric dept warehouseman... Thats the way to go... Most have state retirement, and good benefits... Contractors..... stay away... they seem to attract some pretty bad dudes... A guy that I worked with at the utility.. A lineman... He has basicly started his own utilty company... He does all the contracting for a co op here... Has nicer equipment than some companies... He quit the utility to do this... I'm considering calling him up for a job to be groundsmen