Apprentice to Journeyman Lineman... Alec Higel journeys out
More than 50 tests, a ton of bookwork and 8,000 hours of training later, SLV REC’s Alec Higel (pictured at right) is now officially a journeyman lineman.
Graduating from Alamosa High School in 2013, Alec tried college for a few years at Adams State and University of Northern Colorado before realizing he wanted the stability and great opportunity that he felt linework would provide. He graduated from Colorado Mesa University’s line school in 2015, then did contract work with Foothills Energy before coming to REC in August 2018. He loves being a part of REC’s crew.
The past four years he’s spent many nights reading, studying and taking tests. “The books are huge,” he said, “it’s a lot of work, especially when you have kids at home.”
“I set a goal to journey out, and here I am. It’s a huge weight off my shoulders. I’m so glad to be done studying and taking tests!” Alec commented.
Finishing the program and becoming a journeyman has many benefits, including an increase in pay, the ability to go out on call by yourself, and probably the best part for many— the end of bookwork.
In his free time, Alec enjoys spending time with his wife Marcie and two children. He’s also venturing out as a small business owner of Chamiso Farms making custom small bales.
Being a lineman is not a glamorous or easy profession and is listed as one of the top 10 most dangerous jobs in the U.S. This is understandable as they perform detailed tasks near high-voltage power lines. Regardless of the time of day, having to brave stormy weather and other challenging conditions, linemen must climb 40 feet in the air, often carrying heaving equipment to get the job done. A special shoutout goes to Alec and all of REC’s linemen for taking on this special role!