Terry Minic has been an apprentice lineman since October 2016 and will attend the Central Ohio LIneworker Training (COLT) program to complete his four-year certification.

ational Lineman Appreciation Day — April 10 this year — takes on a whole new meaning for Paulding Putnam Electric Co-op (PPEC) employee Terry Minic.

Minic was part of the tree trimming department at PPEC for eight years, spending six of those years as tree trimming supervisor. But now he recently signed on as an apprentice lineman.

“It’s something I’ve been wanting for a while, and now I’m here!” Minic said. “The camaraderie is amazing, and I truly feel like I’m in my element.”

Minic has been an apprentice lineman since October 2016, but his training is far from over. It takes four years to be trained as a PPEC lineman.

Minic will attend the Central Ohio Lineworker Training (COLT) program, which consists of 12 week-long courses over a four-year span. The program covers a multitude of topics through classroom instruction, field activities and on-the-job training.

“It’s mindboggling how intense the training is, but I’m so grateful for the opportunity,” Minic said. “The skills I’m learning will be used throughout my career.”

Senior linemen at PPEC are also great mentors, as Minic says they assist him on a regular basis.

“John McMaster, Rob Weisenburger and Jeff Ferris have really been there for me,” Minic said. “They are my go-to guys when I have questions. I know if ever I’m in need, they have my back. That’s one of the best parts of this job. All the guys are like family to me.”

Minic hasn’t been on lineman duty during a severe storm yet, but he reflected on a past storm when he was still working with the tree crew.

“It’s incredible watching our linemen work,” Minic said. “They are going into the unknown and at the same time being safe and efficient … all to make sure our members  have power. That takes real dedication and I’m proud to say I’m a part of that team now.”

Paulding Putnam Electric Cooperative recognizes April 10 as National Lineman Appreciation Day to honor lineworkers and their role in building, maintaining and restoring the service that powers the lives of members.

If you would like to send a message to our linemen thanking them for their service, visit our website at www.PPEC.coop to submit an entry.