POWERGRAMS

22 1 E very year, utilities across the country celebrate National Lineman Appreciation Day in April to express gratitude for lineworkers and field representatives. Alabama Power recognizes the hard work and dedication of these employees for the company and the communities they serve. Lineworker contributions are even more recognizable this year as their commitment to providing Alabama safe and reliable energy has not wavered even through the COVID-19 pandemic and a record-setting storm season in 2020. "Our linemen have performed in the face of unprecedented challenges this past year, and I'm proud of their expertise and dedication to their craft," said Senior Vice President of Power Delivery Scott Moore. "National Lineman Appreciation Day is an opportunity to thank them for the superior work they do every day." International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers System Council U-19 Business Manager Casey Shelton said, "It's an honor for our trade to be recognized and the essential services they provide. In times of uncertainty, keeping the lights on is one constant that creates normalcy for customers." The pandemic has prompted another layer of safety precautions on top of standard protections for line crews. Alabama Power asks the public to maintain social distancing of 6 feet from working crews to allow employees to safely serve customers and prevent the spread of COVID-19. "Working with the public was one of the biggest challenges of the pandemic," said James Webb, a lead lineman in Hueytown who celebrated his 30th year with the company in March. "We want to answer their questions and explain what we're doing as best we can while making sure we're keeping ourselves and the public safe." While the work itself has not changed, scheduling often became a challenge as employees or their family members had to quarantine after exposure to the virus. "The day-to-day schedule can change, and if someone is sick or in quarantine, it can mean more work with a smaller crew," said Hueytown Lineman Wade Boyd. "But we run trouble as we always have, keep social distancing and adapt." Linemen faced an unprecedented year of storms. In 2020, the company replaced 3,847 poles, 17,761 spans of wire and 31 transmission structures across Alabama with support from more than 10,000 outside personnel from 25 states and Canada. Alabama Power crews also lent their support to other states after major hurricanes, tornadoes and disasters. Crews traveled to New Jersey, Illinois, Texas and Louisiana. Both Webb and Boyd were part of a team that spent time in Texas and Louisiana. "Working in another state is different from working at home – from sleeping arrangements to getting the materials our crews need," said Webb. "But we're there for a purpose. Getting the lights on quickly and safely is always our main objective." Boyd added, "One of our biggest jobs was rebuilding a whole neighborhood in just a few days. Everyone NatioN, statE hoNor liNemeN for their esseNtial services

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