Transforming Roles and Experiences in the Electrical Industry: From Lineman to Master Electrician

My journey in the electrical industry has been diverse and transformative, encompassing roles as a lineman, a journeyman electrician, and even founding my own business. Each step has been marked by challenges and opportunities, ultimately leading to a mastery of the field.

Lineman Experience and Expertise

Initially, I worked as a lineman rather than an electrician, where my primary responsibilities included constructing, maintaining, and troubleshooting all aspects of overhead and underground utility distribution assets. My expertise spanned various voltage levels, including 4KV, 13.8KV, 8KV, 27.7KV, and 34.5KV systems. I was well-versed in critical infrastructure components such as transformation communication switchgear, including oil, gas, and vacuum reclosers, SCADA machines, and Vista switches. Furthermore, I had extensive knowledge in power quality and calibrations of these systems. My role also involved teaching various courses and training power line maintainers, ensuring they had the necessary skills to maintain and operate these complex systems proficiently.

Industrial and Commercial Work

My early years as an electrician were primarily focused on industrial sectors, including factories, refineries, cement factories, and pulp mills. Later, I ventured into commercial work, taking on projects in stores, shopping malls, and airports. I also established my own business specializing in residential wiring, which sustained me for several years. Presently, I work for a government organization as a foreman, leading a small crew to perform small renovations, with a primary focus on fire alarm system maintenance, testing, and installation.

A unique opportunity arose to work overseas, but I declined as I wanted to stay home with my daughter, who was still young. This experience highlights the balance between professional growth and personal responsibilities.

Educational and Licensing Journey

With over thirty years of experience in the field, I served a four-year apprenticeship in an automotive factory, where I earned both a GM journeyman's card and a Wisconsin state journeyman's license. During my apprenticeship, we were exposed to a wide range of skills, including construction, motors, control circuits, wiring methods, and the National Electric Code (NFPA 70).

When my factory closed in 2009, I pursued an associate degree and obtained my Master Electrician License, which focused on the National Electric Code (NEC). I later found employment with Nestlé in my state, choosing not to transfer within the auto industry due to the requirement to leave my state and the availability of comparable wages and benefits nearby.

Roles and Responsibilities as an Industrial Electrician

As an industrial electrician, my primary focus was on troubleshooting and repairing industrial equipment. Preparing for preventative maintenance and calibration and validation of components were also essential tasks. However, due to the heavy workload, we had little opportunity for construction. Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) were central to our work. These technologies involved extensive programming knowledge; understanding the logic of the code in the PLCs allowed us to diagnose the root causes of malfunctions accurately.

Continuing Education and Professional Development

To maintain my licensing, I continuously engage in professional development, reading technical documents and schematics. The rapid advancement in automation requires constant learning. This field demands a high level of technical skills and a willingness to stay updated with the latest technologies and best practices.

Through my experiences, I have witnessed the evolution of the electrical industry and the critical roles electricians play in maintaining and advancing technological infrastructure. Whether as a lineman, a journeyman electrician, or a professional in an industrial setting, my journey has been a testament to the enduring importance of electrical infrastructure in modern society.