Lineman News and Articles

State Details

Tennessee Lineman Schools and Jobs

The Tennessee Valley Authority is a major employer of lineman through its strong apprenticeship program. Other major employers of lineman...

Lineman Central · Mar 7, 2026 · 3 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

Where to get financial aid for Lineman School

Throughout Lineman Central you will find the starting point for your powerline career. Unfortunately, getting the training won't be free. In this analysis we examine over 115 lineman schools and found that the median cost of lineman school is $8,400. How to Pay for Lineman School Here are some of the most common ways to pay for lineman training, you don't have to pick just one the best line workers leverage several of these. National Public Power Pre-Apprenticeship : At only a couple hundred...

Noah Stoll · Feb 19, 2026 · 4 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

Blue Ridge Community and Technical College’s Power Systems Institute

Our team took some time to sit down with Duane Roberson the Director of Electric Utility Training and Safety at Blue Ridge Technical College

Chris Simpson · Feb 16, 2026 · 4 min

Getting Started

Five Things to Consider when Selecting a Lineman Apprenticeship Program

Here are five things to consider when selecting a lineman apprenticeship program.

Bob Morris · Feb 4, 2026 · 6 min

Getting Started

How to become a helicopter lineman in 2026

In this post we discuss: how to become a helicopter lineman, helicopter lineman companies, and helicopter lineman jobs and salary

Aaron Mahrood · Feb 4, 2026 · 5 min

Getting Started

How much does lineman school cost in 2026?

In this analysis we examine over 115 lineman schools and found that the median cost of lineman school is $8,400.

Billy Kortnoy · Feb 3, 2026 · 4 min

Lineman Gear

[2026] Georgia vs Carolina Lineman Boot

These boots are incredibly durable. The boot's durability is due to several remarkable features.

Billy Kortnoy · Feb 3, 2026 · 3 min

Job Info

Understanding IBEW Collective Bargaining for Linemen and Employers

In the dynamic world of skilled labor, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) has long been a symbol of unity and progress. One of the key mechanisms that underpins the strength of the IBEW is collective bargaining—an essential practice that has profound implications for both linemen and employers within the electrical industry. Collective bargaining is a collaborative process between the IBEW and employers, aimed at negotiating various aspects of employment, from wages...

Billy Kortnoy · Feb 3, 2026 · 3 min

Job Info

How much do lineman travel in 2026?

Per diem for traveling lineman can range upwards to $200 and sometimes over in various part of the country.

Aaron Mahrood · Feb 2, 2026 · 4 min

Getting Started

How the IBEW pension works for Lineman

Depending on your employer as a lineworker, you will have different options to save up for retirement. Some options are pension, 401k or IRA

Bob Morris · Feb 1, 2026 · 3 min

Job Info

Contract Lineman Jobs vs Union Coop Jobs [2026]

Different types of lineman jobs have different types of perks and benefits. What's a priority: spending time at home or making more money?

Bob Morris · Feb 1, 2026 · 2 min

Getting Started

Why Linemen should start by getting their CDL in 2026

Do lineman even need to get their CDL? Yes, if you are interested in becoming a lineman you should get your CDL.

Bob Morris · Jan 25, 2026 · 3 min

Job Info

2026 Lineman Jobs are in High Demand

There are three key factors to a spiking demand in qualified linemen: Gen X retirement, decreasing enrollment, and more tranmission projects

Billy Kortnoy · Jan 23, 2026 · 3 min

Lineman Gear

2026 Wesco Lineman Boot

Wesco lineman boots even have asymmetrically designed shanks that follow the individual shape of the left and right feet for maximum comfort

Bob Morris · Jan 18, 2026 · 2 min

Lineman Gear

[2026] Carolina vs Carhartt Lineman Boot

These boots are slip-resistant, water-resistant, slip, and oil-resistant RockroosterTM TPU outsoles.

Billy Kortnoy · Jan 18, 2026 · 4 min

Getting Started

5 Steps to get a Lineman Job in 2026

1. Get your class A CDL, with no auto restriction. 2. Contact your local IBEW union hall and ask about getting your groundman ticket.

Glen Sutherland · Jan 16, 2026 · 2 min

Getting Started

How long is lineman school in 2026?

In this analysis we examined over 100 lineman schools and found that the median length of lineman school is 18 weeks.

Bob Morris · Jan 9, 2026 · 3 min

Lineman Gear

8 Best Headlamps for Lineman in 2026

We reviewed over 200 industrial headlamps currently on the market and took into account the reviews and experience of lineman working today

Chris Simpson · Jan 9, 2026 · 6 min

Job Info

Whats it like being a union lineman in 2026?

Linemen are a rare breed and have one of the most dangerous jobs in the country. Becoming a Journeyman Lineman takes pride, craftsmanship, a

Glen Sutherland · Jan 4, 2026 · 5 min

The 2025 State of Powerline Jobs and Training

Read the full report here...

Lineman Central · Feb 5, 2025 · 1 min

Level Up Your Climbing Game with the Hook Holster

As linemen, we know the smallest gear upgrades can make the biggest difference. Whether it’s a new pair of gloves that grip just right or...

Billy Kortnoy · Feb 4, 2025 · 2 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

6 Schools to start a lineman career in Texas [2026]

Here are five of the most popular starting points for aspiring lineman beginning their careers in the Lone Star State:

Bob Morris · Feb 3, 2025 · 5 min

Job Info

Best lineman apprenticeship jobs in 2026

Some of the highest paying lineman jobs not a ton of travel may be more attainable than you think. You do need to be ready to apply quickly

Aaron Mahrood · Feb 1, 2025 · 5 min

Getting Started

Lineman Apprenticeship Programs vs Lineman School

A specialized lineman school can accelerate the process of lineman career development.

Chris Simpson · Feb 1, 2025 · 7 min

Job Info

Can I get a lineman job with no experience? [2025 Update]

No you will not be able to become a lineman without any experience. Lineman requires years of training and formal apprenticeships. However,

Bob Morris · Jan 23, 2025 · 3 min

Getting Started

Why the Rodeo Experience Translates Well to Powerline Work

Harnessing the power of ropes and riding the waves of challenges in sturdy boots might sound like quintessential cowboy imagery,...

Chris Simpson · Jan 17, 2025 · 3 min

Lineman Gear

[2026] Milwaukee vs Klein Skinning Knife

There are two elite choices when it comes to skinning knives that journeymen are often choosing between: Milwaukee Fastback Hawkbill Folding

Aaron Mahrood · Dec 22, 2024 · 5 min

Lineman Gear

Gift Guide for Lineman [2025]

Lineman are tough to shop for. Check out these top recommended gifts for lineman by our own team. They range across the price spectrum

Chris Simpson · Dec 20, 2024 · 4 min

Getting Started

4 Strategies to Handle Uneven Paychecks Like a Pro Lineman

Content Provided in Partnership with Longitude Financial Planning The seasonality of contract work makes smart financial planning...

Thomas Anzivino · Dec 12, 2024 · 3 min

State Details

New York Lineman Schools and Jobs

Over the past 10 years, electric utilities operating in New York State have spent $17 billion to maintain its electric power grid.

Lineman Central · Oct 18, 2024 · 4 min

Job Info

7 Reasons to be a Union Lineman

Is being in IBEW the golden ticket for linemen? “It was a very beautiful thing, this Golden Ticket, having been made, so it seemed, from...

Aaron Mahrood · Oct 11, 2024 · 5 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

Spotlight on Bismarck State College Lineman Program

Bismarck Lineman Program is well known for its strong curriculum and career preparation. The program is run just like how the industry works

Billy Kortnoy · Mar 10, 2024 · 3 min

Personal Protective Ground Equipment Guides

The safety of linemen working on electrical systems is paramount, and personal protective grounding equipment plays a crucial role in safegu

Dan Eller · Jan 30, 2024 · 3 min

Lineman Gear

Personal Voltage Detectors can Save Lineman Lives on the Job

COMPASS® mounts under the brim of any standard hard hat within the user’s peripheral vision.

Billy Kortnoy · Dec 2, 2023 · 1 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

10 Commandments for Lineman Apprentices on the Job

You are a grunt! Don't whine. DO WHAT YOU ARE TOLD! Listen Understand the information given to you or ask

Billy Kortnoy · Nov 27, 2023 · 1 min

Job Info

How veterans can get lineman jobs in 2025

Ask any recruiter at a utility company or line apprenticeship program and they will tell you the top trait they are looking for is hard work

Chris Simpson · Nov 19, 2023 · 4 min

Lineman Gear

The future of high voltage readings for linemen

While the primary question for a lineman on a storm recovery team may be about the presence of any voltage... as the work continues line

Noah Stoll · Nov 12, 2023 · 2 min

The 2023 State of Powerline Jobs and Training

The methodology employed for this report is both comprehensive and data-driven, aimed at providing you with the most accurate and up-to-date

Lineman Central · Nov 7, 2023 · 1 min

Getting Started

When is a lineman certificate program worth it?

When prospecting potential education and training programs early on in a young lineman's career the path of a certificate program is...

Bob Morris · Aug 28, 2023 · 2 min

Job Info

Top considerations for Traveling Lineman

The lineman contractor needs to have some sense of the business by knowing who they are competing with, how much they charge for the service

Chris Simpson · Aug 27, 2023 · 3 min

Overhead Distribution

Joe Rogan Stunned by What Lineman Do

In a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, an unexpected topic took center stage – the remarkable work of power lineman...

Chris Simpson · Aug 10, 2023 · 2 min

Overhead Distribution

Federal Mandate to Require Tree Branches on New Power Line Poles

A new broad sweeping mandate approved by congress will require all new wood power line poles to have tree branches attached to them in order

Chris Simpson · Apr 1, 2023 · 1 min

Lineman Gear

Spotlight on OmniGear: Putting Safety First

As a line worker, it is important to prioritize safety while on the job. Using a mobile device in the field can present challenges, as it ma

Chris Simpson · Jan 6, 2023 · 2 min

Overhead Distribution

How 42,000 Line workers showed what makes America Great.

Lineman Central has been reporting on Hurricane Ian recovery efforts for the past week. The Great Lineman Response to Hurricane Ian On...

Bob Morris · Oct 2, 2022 · 3 min

Overhead Distribution

What Mastec acquisition of Henkels & McCoy means for Linemen

This week it was announced that Florida-based specialty contractor giant MasTec Inc. has agreed to acquire Henkels & McCoy

Billy Kortnoy · Dec 21, 2021 · 1 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

Northwest Lineman College announced for North Carolina

An exciting recent announcement made by Northwest Lineman College will add additional hands-on training and certification for the Carolinas

Noah Stoll · Dec 7, 2021 · 3 min

Lineman Gear

LineCrew Apparel & the HookNation

HookNation keeps the lights on. For our part, we work hard to develop and manufacture tools and technology that keep these guys safe and eff

Billy Kortnoy · Nov 18, 2021 · 2 min

Lineman Gear

Unique stabilization system for transmission crews

Before transmission lineman are even in the air, utility crews must be working to ensure the concrete or steel infrastructure are strong

Noah Stoll · Nov 15, 2021 · 2 min

Lineman Gear

Preventing Lineman Injuries

A torn labrum, a herniated disc, a torn patellar tendon... at first these may just seem like the cost of doing business.

Noah Stoll · Nov 15, 2021 · 3 min

Lineman Gear

How lineman can safely remove vegetation

Our industry is looking for a solution that can clear vegetation at a pole base as well as on transmission towers.

Aaron Mahrood · Nov 15, 2021 · 2 min

Lineman Gear

How safe are the poles you are climbing

Traditional pole testing methods are subjective, inaccurate, and can actually cause further damage to the pole.

Chris Simpson · Nov 12, 2021 · 2 min

Overhead Distribution

Hands on learning for Linemen

For years, the default learning experience for groundmen and apprentices has been a combination of classroom textbook work, power points

Bob Morris · Nov 12, 2021 · 3 min

Lineman Gear

Ratchet plus hotstick can equal danger for linemen

One of the first things we learn for basic safety is if a position feels awkward or dangerous, slow down and find a better, safer way to do

Noah Stoll · Nov 11, 2021 · 2 min

Overhead Distribution

How infrared inspections are saving line crews time

Most utility companies use infrared on a regular basis as part of a regimented maintenance program. Some contract out their inspections

Noah Stoll · Nov 10, 2021 · 2 min

Lineman Gear

How the Socket Locker is removing frustration for Linemen

With easy to remove and replace sockets you’ll never be plagued with fatigue and frustration from fighting with your tools while trying to c

Bob Morris · Oct 21, 2021 · 1 min

Overhead Distribution

Duke Energy Shocks Nation to Claim Title

Jay Tipton, Keith Griffin and Sandy Barnhill had a whole year to think about their 32nd Place finish in the last International Rodeo.

Aaron Mahrood · Oct 20, 2021 · 1 min

Lineman Gear

Some of the best linemen hand protection

Arc flash gloves work gloves are relevant for any worker who is potentially exposed to an electric arc generating a heat flux of greater tha

Chris Simpson · Oct 2, 2021 · 2 min

Lineman Gear

Why linecrews demand rugged technology

Utility executives are calling "data the new oil". But how do line crews on the job take advantage of an abundance of information and techno

Aaron Mahrood · Sep 3, 2021 · 2 min

Overhead Distribution

Linemen Wins and Losses from the Trillion Dollar Infrastructure Bill

This broadly defined grant seems to be written very loosely and will give the Department of Energy strong authority to essentially fund what

Lineman Central · Sep 1, 2021 · 5 min

Overhead Distribution

Still think Linemen aren't Emergency Responders?

The 2002 Homeland Security Act and more specifically the Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act was aimed for linemen

Aaron Mahrood · Aug 30, 2021 · 2 min

Overhead Distribution

Lineman are first responders

When a disaster hits, we're very quick to praise our first responders, the police, fire rescue crews, emergency management professionals and

Chris Simpson · Jul 16, 2021 · 3 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

Lineman in Texas Spotlight

The state of Texas is home to thousands of experienced linemen across the region. Each of these journeymen have to get their start somewhere

Bob Morris · Jun 25, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Idaho Linemen Schools and Jobs

Some of the most popular choices for Idaho lineman apprenticeship includes Southwest Idaho Electrical Joint Apprenticeship, Mountain States

Lineman Central · Jun 3, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Kentucky Lineman Schools and Jobs

Some of the most popular choices for Kentucky lineman apprenticeship includes American Line Builders Training Program and Columbia State Com

Lineman Central · Jun 3, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Florida Lineman Jobs & Schools

Some of the most popular Florida choices for lineman apprenticeship include SELCAT and Florida Municipal Power.

Lineman Central · May 22, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Colorado Lineman Schools and Jobs

Some of the most popular in-state choices for lineman school in Colorado are Trinidad State Rocky Mountain Lineman School, Mesa Hotline Scho

Lineman Central · May 5, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Montana Lineman Schools and Jobs

Some of the most popular in-state choices for lineman school in Montana are Montana Tech Lineman Program, and Mountain States Line Construct

Lineman Central · May 5, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Becoming a Lineman in Georgia

In order to become a lineman in Georgia the first step is an apprenticeship. A lineman apprenticeship is an “earn while you learn” program i

Lineman Central · May 4, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Texas Lineman Schools and Jobs

Journeyman lineman in Texas will be able to need to perform various types of distribution service calls. A typical day’s work would include

Lineman Central · May 4, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Michigan Lineman Jobs and Schools

Several of the most popular in-state schools for lineman in Michigan are Alpena Community College Lineman Program and Lansing Community

Lineman Central · May 4, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

Minnesota Lineman Jobs and Schools

Lineman apprentices in Minnesota will be responsible for performing diversified work related to the construction and maintenance of poles, p

Lineman Central · May 4, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

California Lineman Schools and Jobs

Some of the most popular in-state choices for lineman school in California are Yavapai College Lineman Program, Sacramento Power Academy

Lineman Central · May 3, 2021 · 3 min

Overhead Distribution

What Biden's $2 Trillion Plan Means for Linemen

it will put hundreds of thousands of people to work laying thousands of miles of transmission lines.

Billy Kortnoy · Apr 2, 2021 · 3 min

State Details

North Carolina Lineman Schools and Jobs

We estimate there are currently 7,050 lineman in the state of North Carolina. The median journeyman salary for lineman in North Carolina is

Lineman Central · Mar 22, 2021 · 3 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

Spotlight on Ozark Technical Community College Linemen

We use a scaffold approach to our classes where each class builds on the previous one, which gives our students plenty of time to master all

Bob Morris · Mar 11, 2021 · 6 min

Overhead Distribution

How the Lineman Profession has Evolved in the Last Twenty Years

Since 2000, there has continued to be an increase in the demand for both lineman jobs, lineman apprenticeship as well as dedicated lineman t

Aaron Mahrood · Mar 11, 2021 · 4 min

Apprenticeships & School Info

Cleveland Community College Electrical Lineworker Academy

Lineman Central has recognized Cleveland Community College’s Electrical Lineworker Academy as one of the top programs

Chris Simpson · Feb 16, 2021 · 3 min

Overhead Distribution

Behind the Numbers of the February 2021 Power Outages

As lineman across the country begin what will be a grueling week restore power we analyzed over 2,000 utility announcements

Chris Simpson · Feb 16, 2021 · 3 min

Overhead Distribution

What states have the worst power line standards?

The U.S. electric grid delivers over 3,800 terawatt-hours of power to more than 150 million end points during the calendar year.

Chris Simpson · Feb 12, 2021 · 2 min

Overhead Distribution

2020 storm season and the state of the lineman industry

One positive trend we tracked in 2020 in utility companies and major employers of lineman across the country are continuing to increase safe

Billy Kortnoy · Dec 24, 2020 · 2 min