Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/816993
5 happy that you're there. Everyone comes together, which is special to see," Hatcher said. "That's probably what I like the most – helping people." In their daily work, there is no routine. Frequently, deadlines or weather dictate the job, and everyone must learn how to adapt and change. While a standard work week is four 10-hour days, when there are storms or when a lineman is on call, the hours can easily double. For this crew, 60 percent of their work in metro Birmingham is considered "on the road," while the remaining work is in areas where bucket trucks are not able to be used, called "rear lot." There, the workers must carry in all of their equipment, and any work on the poles is done by climbing. "It's all about teamwork out here. You watch out for each other and communicate," Swindle said. "We really care about our customers, their opinion about us, and the quality of work that we do. Each and every one of these guys I work with every day takes a lot of pride in what they do – the quality of work and craftsmanship." A lineman's work has to be precise, and often includes long, intense hours in challenging and dangerous conditions. Their quality of work has given Alabama Power a positive reputation beyond the state's borders. "Whenever we go out of town, they know who we are … that's Alabama," Hatcher said. "It's our culture. We come in and we get the lights back on. We do our job and we do it safely." Swindle works on the ground. Josh Scott moves bucket up toward power lines.