One of the skills kids typically master during their elementary school years is tying their shoes. But with a pair of lineworker gloves on, lacing up becomes significantly more difficult.
Thatcher Mcgaha visits with his dad, LREC lineman Gavin Mcgaha during Career Day at Cherokee Trail Elementary in Donalds. Photo Credit: Bret Timmerman
Still, some of the kids in third through fifth grade at Diamond Hill Elementary in Abbeville got to try the tie when Little River Electric linemen Duck Laughlin and Levi James visited the school in February. The duo described what they do and showed the students some of their equipment, including the thick gloves that protect them when working on electric lines.
“When we have the opportunity to make these presentations, we like to issue that challenge,” says James. “It doesn’t matter if you are in elementary school or have a master’s degree, with those gloves on, those shoes aren’t getting tied.”
The challenge is more than good fun, according to Laughlin. It illustrates the specialized skill set that electric lineworkers require—performing intricate tasks under tough conditions. The lineworkers also showed the students their tools, climbing spurs and other personal protective equipment.
“We love what we do and want to tell the community about it, especially kids,” says James. “They had some great questions and seemed like they had a good time.”
Little River Electric’s presentations to schools and other organizations represent two of their defining cooperative principles—the commitment to community and education.
