Jordan Peters - Journeyman Lineman

What is your role at the district, and what does a typical day look like? 

I am a journeyman lineman, and I have been at Wheat Belt since 2014. Between construction and maintenance, each day looks different. Sometimes you are on repeat and have similar tasks each day, and then you get a wild day. 

What do you enjoy most about working in the industry? 

I enjoy getting the lights back on. As a customer myself, I know how our customers feel on that side. I also enjoy working with the people in the industry, both past and present. 

What does "safety first" mean to you? 

Always tak the extra second to think, "how can I do this a better way to be safe for the public, coworkers, and myself?" 

What is the most important safety lesson you've learned during your career? 

While I have learned a lot, I know there is still plenty more for me to acquire and understand. One safety lesson that has always stood out to me is that "we've always done it this way" is not always the answer to continue doing something. It's important to continually evaluate our work practices and look for safer, more effective ways to get the job done. 

How has safety changed since you started working in the industry? 

One aspect of safety in this industry that has changed since I started working in it concerns climbing and the introduction of fall restraints. Prior to fall restraints, we would just free climb, but a couple of months after I got hired, they were introduced. Fall restraints basically keep us from falling the ground while climbing poles. 

What's one safety message you'd like every employee and customer to remember? 

Every rule, policy, or safety code was written in blood. this doesn't just apply to the utility industry, but it also applies to farming and ranching. This is why it is so important to work safely for the benefit of our employees and customers. 

What do you like to do in your free time? 

Outside of work, I enjoy grilling on the Big Green Egg, shooting and working with firearms, and spending quality time with my son, Reece. I'm also a hobby farmer and enjoy the hands-on work of farming and caring for livestock.