As your Grays Harbor PUD Commissioner, I’ve seen up close what our linemen and Operations Department go through every day.

From the garage to the warehouse, to the field, these folks aren’t just workers — they’re the heart and soul of what keeps our lights on in Grays Harbor. When those nasty coastal storms hit us, when trees come crashing down on power lines, or when equipment quits at 2 a.m. during a freezing night — it’s our crews who jump in their trucks while the rest of us stay warm indoors. They’re out there in the worst weather making sure we all have power.

Their work goes way beyond just keeping our Netflix running. Our crews maintain systems that keep medical equipment working for vulnerable neighbors, keep food from spoiling, and ensure we can call for help during emergencies. Without them, our county would grind to a halt.

So, what does it take to be one of these professionals? Lineman apprenticeship here at Grays Harbor PUD is a three-year program that includes on-the-job training as well as a concurrent three years of classroom training during the school year on Saturdays and a few week-long trainings at a regional apprentice training yard.

To obtain a lineman apprenticeship with the PUD, employees are hired at entry level positions like flagger/ops trainee, garage help and warehouse workers, and eventually obtain a groundsman position on the crews which may take two or more years depending on how many others there are with more seniority.

These folks develop incredible skills — climbing poles with heavy equipment, working at heights that would make most dizzy, and handling deadly electricity with precision.

All the training in the world doesn’t capture what makes our Grays Harbor Operations teams special. They all have something extra: commitment to safety, problem-solving abilities, and dedication to keeping your power on, no matter what.

I’m amazed by how tight knit our crews are. Their work depends on teammates doing everything right. This teamwork makes them effective when things get rough.

As your Commissioner, I’m committed to supporting our Operations teams and their training. These folks represent public service at its finest, and I couldn’t be prouder of them.

When you spot PUD trucks in your neighborhood, give a wave. Those dedicated professionals are the real deal — powering our community through thick and thin.