When members flip a switch, charge a phone, or start an irrigation system, electricity is expected to be there instantly. Behind that reliability is a dedicated team of lineworkers who work year-round to keep power flowing across Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative’s (YVEC) service territory.
For lineworkers, no 2 days are the same. While storm response often gets the most attention, much of their work happens behind the scenes and long before an outage occurs. (34335000)
Starting the Day
A typical day begins early. Crews gather to review assignments, inspect equipment, discuss safety protocols, and prepare vehicles for the work ahead. Safety is always the first priority, and every task starts with careful planning.
Once crews head into the field, work can vary depending on the season and the needs of the system.
More Than Restoring Power
While members often think of lineworkers during outages, much of their job focuses on prevention and maintenance. Crews inspect poles, transformers, underground equipment, and power lines to identify issues before they become larger problems.
Routine work may include:
- Replacing aging poles and hardware
- Upgrading equipment to improve reliability
- Repairing storm damage
- Connecting new services for homes, businesses, and agricultural operations
Summer is often a busy season as crews complete maintenance projects, respond to increased electrical demand, and support system upgrades.
Working in Montana Conditions
Montana’s weather and wide open landscapes create unique challenges. Lineworkers may travel long distances, work through extreme temperatures, and respond in remote areas.
The job requires technical skill, physical endurance, and constant awareness of safety while working around high-voltage equipment.
Powering The Community
Lineworkers are often among the first to respond during storms and emergencies, working long hours to restore service safely and efficiently. Their work helps power homes, farms, schools, businesses, and communities across the region.
The next time you see a bucket truck on the road or crews working near power lines, remember the people behind the scenes who help keep electricity reliable every day.