On a warm August morning, 10 Ohio legislators swapped their blazers for hard hats during a behind-the-scenes tour of our Central Ohio Lineworker Training facility in Mount Gilead, Ohio. Lawmakers, including Paulding Putnam member and State Representative Roy Klopfenstein (pictured at right), got a firsthand look at the rigorous four-year training lineworkers complete, including the chance to try raising a transformer and even climbing a utility pole.

Building these relationships with policymakers is vital by showing them the skills, challenges, and dedication involved in keeping the lights on, we help ensure they understand the needs of electric cooperatives and the communities we serve.