Spotlight

In 2016, Elijah wanted to learn a new trade and returned to school to earn a certificate in air conditioning and heating appliances while working two jobs. That experience has taught him not to take opportunities for granted. Elijah learned the value of education and applied himself to reach his goals.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“I understand that learning the lineman trade is both challenging and rewarding. I am eager to learn, and I believe my hard work and perseverance will set a great example for the younger generation in my family. Most importantly, I like the idea of bonding and becoming part of a brotherhood with others who share the same passion.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“Safety at your workplace and home is the number one priority. Keeping yourself and those around you safe must be a top priority. I've made sure to follow OSHA regulations in my previous jobs. I've worked with electricity dealing with air conditioning and heating, so I know how dangerous it can get. Practicing safety habits is second nature to me.”

Jordan currently works in public safety as a community services officer, which has instilled in him a desire to serve his community. He hopes that by working as a lineman, he can help customers continue their daily lives without electrical interruptions.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“I want to be a lineworker because I understand the importance of electricity and how much the community needs it. When I think of community, I think of hospitals, local, federal and state buildings, personal residences, businesses, grocery stores, restaurants, streetlights, traffic signals and more. Being a lineworker is a wonderful career. My goal is to find a career that is both fulfilling and rewarding. I am the type of person with the heart of a servant and love to serve my community.”

“I work closely with police, fire personnel and the public. I take police reports, provide animal services, tow and cite vehicles, direct traffic and direct the public to proper resources. I take precautions at work to achieve an injury-free and safe workplace environment.”

As a former construction worker and contractor, Malcom has always been passionate about hands-on work. He first learned about the Edison International Lineworker Scholarship Program through Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, where he began his educational foray into the field. Malcom also has extensive experience with volunteer work, and he's excited to continue those efforts through Edison International's culture of giving back.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“I believe linework is a fascinating trade that is challenging but rewarding. I've always wanted to be part of a team while providing hard work and dedication to communities in need of electricity. Linework also allows me to provide financially for my daughter and my family to give them a better life. I dream I will be able to drive by a city with my daughter in the car and tell her that I helped light this city up. I want to be a very proud, honorable electrical lineman and put my best foot forward to accomplish one of my life's goals.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“Respect is incredibly important to me. Having played team sports and working in groups of people, I've always acknowledged a person's basic dignity and ability. I firmly believe in empathy for each person's situation, listening to and encouraging other people's opinions and input, and brainstorming to develop a game plan that allows the group and I to complete any mission efficiently. Being a former athlete, I know that creating a positive environment can help emotionally, intellectually and physically. I've always wanted people around me to know that they are valued. I've always made sure that I show care and attention by following up through my actions and words."

Ethan currently works at a microchip manufacturing facility with low-voltage radio frequency chips. His lifelong goal is to choose a career path that positively impacts people and challenges him mentally and physically.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“I've always admired electrical studies, and this career will challenge me to better myself. I've seen lineworkers at work and admired their confidence and skill while working almost 60 feet above the ground. Line work is something I believe will fill me with a sense of pride and adventure.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“Safety resonates with me most of the time and is my highest priority. My father is an engineer, and I worked with him in my first job where I had early exposure to wiring and working with equipment with extreme voltage.”

Ian has a background in healthcare as a certified nursing assistant, excellent attention to detail and a strong sense of safety. He is accustomed to grueling work hours, has a strong work ethic and takes pride in his work. Ian is eager to work for a company that values integrity and hard work.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“Being a lineworker sounds like an exciting, vital, lucrative profession, and I believe I have what it takes to develop the craftsmanship necessary to be an excellent one. Having electricity is essential to everyday modern life. I understand that a lineman constructs and maintains the electric transmission that delivers this electrical energy to industrial, commercial and residential establishments. My grandfather was a subcontractor, and I believe installing electrical equipment is one of the most elite professionals in the industry.”

“Knowing when you need to ask for help to safely lift a patient also greatly reduces your risk of injury. Finally, understanding the workplace safety policies and implementing them daily, including reporting any noncompliance issues or safety risk, is vitally important to maintaining a safe workplace for everyone.”

Gregory has worked alongside linemen for the past four to five years and is interested in pursuing a career as a lineman.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“I'm looking forward to becoming a lineman to pursue a more solid career than the one I have. I have worked with linemen who speak of their pride in their work. I want to be one of those proud men as well.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“I currently conduct safety tailboards for the team in the morning before work. I also inspect equipment and ensure my team members have the proper personal protective equipment (PPE) before work begins.”

In 2021, MaeSean had the opportunity to work for Outsource Utility Contractor Corp as a traffic control technician on a line crew. He was captivated by the leader, team and the work involved. His experience and the support he received from leadership sparked an interest in working in the utility industry.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“My former foreman, Quinn Curtin, influenced my passion for becoming a lineworker. In the six months I worked with Curtin, he always treated me respectfully. He noticed that I was captivated by the work and taught me the order of operations when setting poles and lines. Quinn's work ethic and attitude toward the craft inspired me, and in our time working together, he let me assist with tasks when safe to do so.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“I pride myself on being alert and active when it comes to sharp or heavy tools in the workplace and beyond because the margin for error becomes slimmer when adverse situations occur.”

As a counselor and supervisor at a special-needs facility, Jovan Nichols has the experience that taught him to be humble and to focus on his leadership role. Safety has become his top priority, and he hopes to bring that value to his career as a lineworker.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“I enjoy being outdoors, from climbing, to hiking, to running marathons, so becoming a lineworker will be fitting of who I already am. I would be doing what I love by acquiring new skills leading to career advancement, connecting with people and being of service.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“Safety has become a top priority for myself and the staff under my supervision. Like most businesses, we follow the CDC's guidelines and recommendations (facial masks, washing hands and sanitizing). Because I work in close contact with clients, I make sure I am fully masked, use latex gloves, wash & sanitize my hands regularly and, when possible, maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet.”

Deshaun's uncle has worked as a lineman for many years and speaks highly of it. Hearing his uncle talk about the different jobs in this line of work has sparked an interest for Deshaun.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“I am interested in becoming a lineworker because I believe this is a career that I would enjoy very much, and I want to be part of a team that celebrates their work. Lineworkers are responsible for creating and maintaining the lines that carry all the power. Having electricity is a crucial part of our lives, and I think it would be an accomplishment to help provide that to people.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“I believe it is essential to work in an environment where you are respected, valued and can communicate freely.”

With life experience behind her, Nicole wants to focus on a fulfilling long-term career. Through her previous jobs, she realized how much she values variety and wants to work outdoors with a team.

Why do you want to be a lineworker?
“Working with electricity has been an endeavor of mine for years. I want to be a lineworker because it requires physicality and adaptability. Being outdoors and functioning cohesively with others to reach a goal appeals to me about this career. Leaving work at the end of the day feeling like I've overcome obstacles with a team is what I find most satisfying.”

Safety, integrity and respect are important values at SCE. Which one of these values resonates with you?
“Safety remains at the forefront of this field and reminds me that life is precious. I own a hard hat, steel/composite toe boots, safety glasses, work gloves and reflective vest. I am constantly aware of my surroundings and careful to pay attention to where I'm standing or placing feet or hands.”