National Lineman Appreciation Day was Monday, April 18, but here at Border States Electric, we #ThankALineman every day. The hardworking men and women that help keep our lights on do not just maintain a presence in the field, they can be found in pop culture as well. From movies and TV to prize winning photos and music, appreciation abounds in almost every facet of our culture.
Looking for linemen in the media? Here are a few examples we found.
Linemen in Pop Culture
Music
Wichita Lineman was written by Jimmy Webb in 1968 and first recorded by Glen Campbell that same year. Since that time it has been recorded by countless artists including REM, the Villagers, and this version by Johnny Cash.
Photography
“The Kiss of Life,” an image that lives on in lineman history. Read more about the story behind the Pulitzer Prize winning image.
Books
TV and Movies
- Life on the Line (2015)
- Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)
- It Came from Outer Space (1953)
- Slim (1937)
- ‘The Lineman’ (Twilight Zone Episode 2002)
Hubbell Power Systems and Tytan Pictures Release Storm Soldiers II
Storm Soldiers II is the second installment of the Tytan Pictures project examining the lives and careers of the brave men and women who work in America’s electrical utility industry. In partnership with Hubbell Power Systems and Chance Lineman Grade Tools, Storm Soldiers II showcases the hardworking Americans who work in the industry. This story is about the linemen and the industry’s impact on their lives and families. Juxtaposing the linemen at home against their work and how their families see their jobs, Storm Soldiers II also documents what it’s like for linemen to work in dangerous and extreme conditions. Linemen often arrive to disaster scenes before first responders in order to ensure safety for rescue crews and help restore infrastructure. With a dynamic look at the struggles and triumphs of bringing electricity to communities, the film follows the linemen home to see their families’ reactions to their work and the impact the chaos has on both environments. These men and women represent the over 100,000 linemen in America who work without complaints or excuses.
This award-winning movie is a tribute to the men and women who put their lives on the line and even though only one day is nationally recognized, we #ThankALineman every day.
Storm Soldiers movies support the National Sisterhood United for Journeymen Linemen, the National Association of Journeymen Linemen and The International Lineman Museum.