Duke Energy announced on April 15 that it will honor its lineworkers during National Lineworker Appreciation Day, which takes place on April 18. The company highlighted the essential role these workers play in maintaining and restoring power across its service areas.
The recognition comes as Duke Energy seeks to emphasize the importance of reliable electricity for homes and businesses, especially during severe weather events. The company said that lineworkers are responsible for building, maintaining, and upgrading equipment to strengthen the grid year-round.
Scott Batson, executive vice president and chief power grid officer for Duke Energy, said: “Customers trust us to deliver safe, reliable power every day – and to bring it back quickly after storms and other outages. That’s why the work of our lineworkers’ matters: they strengthen the system through daily maintenance and upgrades, and they respond in our communities when it matters most. Their skill and safety-first mindset help us provide the dependable service our communities expect today while building a stronger grid for the future.”
Several employees shared their perspectives about working as lineworkers at Duke Energy. John Thompson, a transmission line technician in Florida, said: “Linework in Florida is both demanding and rewarding. Between extreme heat, lightning and hurricanes, there’s always something working against the grid. It’s our job as a line crew to come together, push back against those challenges, and make sure the lights stay on—no matter what Mother Nature throws at us.” Kevin McGill from Indiana noted: “To be a lineworker today, you have to master the fundamentals and be ready to adapt –using new tools and technology and learning new systems as the grid evolves… And when something happens – especially after a storm – we’re proud to be there to help people when they need it most.”
Tyler Hobbs from North Carolina described his personal connection with his community through his work: “I take pride in being a lineman in my hometown… Being able to serve the community I have lived in my whole life is what makes this job more than just a career.” Brandon Duncan from South Carolina added: “Being a lineworker at Duke Energy means standing on the front lines when it matters most – when our customers need their lives restored to normal…” Brian Schultz from Kentucky/Ohio also reflected on his role by saying: “There is a profound sense of fulfillment that comes with being a lineman… Ultimately, the greatest reward is seeing the lights flicker back on for my neighbors…”
Duke Energy employs approximately 3,600 lineworkers across six states with support from contract crews totaling over 10,000 professionals dedicated to keeping service reliable.
Looking ahead, Duke Energy stated that investments in electric grid upgrades are part of an energy modernization strategy aimed at meeting growing energy needs while keeping customer value central.
