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do what u need to do!but in my opion stay union and spread it.don't make me a dieing breed!i've fought the union and rats for to long!the reason i fought the union was to make the union better!and to recruit rats for a better life!either you're pro working man or pro communist.commi keep you're rights down!

I don't care about traveling. That is something I want to do. I just want to do it in the union. That is another reason I don't want to go to work for a utility, I am young & I want to get out & see stuff.

HEY,MF,U KNOW R. COOK? HES AN AP. FOR S.M.U.D. IF SO TELL HIM OLD GEORGE M. BUDDY FROM L.G.,TX. SAYS WHAT UP! P.S., SAC. P.D. SUCKS, I GOT ARRESTED 36 HOURS AFTER I ARRIVED IN SAC.

no matter were u are,union or non union u will probably have to travel to another region for work!don't worry,if u don't have a large family u can do it!and your home town will still be there and you'll see not a damn thing has changed but u!to much in the world for a young man to miss out on!don't be foolish or timid ,if you're a puss stay out of the trade,no matter what side of the fence you're on!

I work for the Sacramento Municipal Utility District. We are constantly hiring pre-apprentices, apprentices and journeymen. Why don't you place an application. Additionally, PG&E is hiring at the rate of 150 apprentices per year. These are all union positions. I don't understand why some of you guys have a difficult time finding employment. There are plenty of high paying union jobs without having to go through the JATC. Did you attend a line school? Just wondering.

does anyone know if there are any job openings around the Atlanta,GA area right now?

For you guys debating the union vs. non-union. I am waiting on the nwjatc list to be called out as a App. lineman. I have been waiting since september 02. I made it up all the way to #6. Then they interviewed in march 03. My number was then adjusted to 45, with last I checked ( couple weeks Ago) 35 apps on the out of work list, so that puts me at 80 give or take a few. To re-interview in sept. 03 I have to have 300 hrs work related. Well, I have also been waitng on my locals list to be called out as a groundman. I am getting closer but who knows when the day will come. I come from a strong union family, I was raised the union way. Trust me I want to be union, but what am I to do? Not get any work related experiance & pray for the union to call. Or should I take a non-union job to get my 300 Hrs? I have know applied to CAL/NEV JATC. I would go out of either of those programs. I am just getting tired of playing the waiting game. But then again, I know good things come to those who wait. Anyways, thanks for you input guys.

Anyone work for Scana? Are they union or non union? I applied to them for an apprenticeship and got a call today from them. I also have an interview for Selcat in 2 weeks. Does Scana put you through the Selcat program or do they do there own training? If it comes down to the point where I have to choose Who should I go with??

That is it in a nutshell

i have been working for tat outfits for along time here in texas. ithink that all you people who think that union is the way to go should give rats a chance. We do get some people in the door and they figure out if this lifestyle is for them or not. Also anyone can get hurt union or non...

I like to see the banter back and forth about apprenticeship union or non union because it kinda gives both sides of the issue. Batman, I asked you what someone looking to enter the trade can do if the power companies are not hiring people that do not have a ticket and I do not see a response to that question???, I ask the question because I do not know the answer.Batman you have built your time and are enjoying your retirement and can be great source of information that is a good thing.Dave thanks for your .02 cents and you are correct that there are companies out that put safety as a high priority in the in the field The company I work for is audited by the power company for safety training and is at most of the training programs that the company put us thru. The power company does audit crews in the field for safety and training certification, and has the power to have the crew shut down or removed from the property for infractions.That means the men in the field MUST BE PROPERLY TRAINED because the safety people from the power company are trained (IBEW) on what to look for, and our own safety people are lineman retired (IBEW) 20 to 30 years with the power company, we must be the exception and not the rule???. Drwelect you could not follow company policy at Wiredynamix and you have an axe to grind so be it, that company put food on your table gave you great benefits and they are non union WOW!!!. Little gun I have a lineman that is 54 years old working for me and for the last 3 years we have installed over 200,000 feet of URD FEEDER and 35% of that has been 1000kcm copper. That lineman can run circles around most punk ass grunts in their early 20's, I think he is an oldtimer in your eyes and he is one of the best lineman I have had work for me, and because he is able bodied and not slacker I would not trade him for someone in their 20's. So I do not put up with the bullshit that because someone is older than Iam or someone else on the crew does that make me a bad foreman???, I do not think so. My crew is treated better than the other crews in the company, they bust their asses every day and have fun doing it, and are proud of the work we have done together as a crew. ALL BE SAFE

I've worked Union and non-union. I have seen training programs on both sides and am ultimately sure that the IBEW apprenticeship is the most comprehensive and diversified program for a young man to start in for him and the others that he will work with. I will never work non-union construction again. And on another note. All union contractors that I have worked for have paid me every dime that I had coming with-out ever a wimper or argument. The same was not true on the non-union side. I still have money owed to me from years ago. You young men starting in this trade consider that while you are trying to get into the apprenticeship program. Don't get impatient and make a wrong move. The IBEW will be the best. drwelect

I'M IN MY EARLY 20'S, I'VE WORKED UNION AND NON-UNION!FEEDERMAN SAYS IF YOU'RE TO OLD,OR CAN'T DO THE WORK HE LEAVES YOU BEHIND!I AGREE ON LEAVING THE ABLE BODIED MAN WHO CAN'T KEEP UP,BUT!!!! HE IS ALSO SAYING LEAVE BEHIND THE OLD TIMERS? HELL NO!(SPOKEN LIKE A TRUE SUCK ASS RAT!)TRUST ME UNION APP. COMMITIES ACROSS THE U.S. ARE HIRING. TO HELL WITH BEING A RAT! GO UNION IF YOU'RE ARE PRO WORK OR GO NON-UNION IF YOU'RE A SUCK ASS!!!!!!!!!!

I want to get an appoitment as line manager.

Here is a $1.00 for your $.02. You are more than right. Thing is this is a great time for any kid to join the trade. As far as bussing tables, waiting for a union apprenticeship, that shouldn't be a problem right now. I know there are only interviews every so often. But union or non union you are going to have to go where they want you. There are some great utilities out there non union. Great scale package. Then you get into you non union line construction. Very different story. Poor training, poor safety records, poor wages, no benefits. You would be surprised at the non union that come into the union after retiring from non union utilities. Step on everything non union never. Step on any company killing lineman every day? Yes. Talk about safety? NOT possible. Why? There isn't a day goes by that Union - Non Union companies violate the federal, state and company policys. This is done for production, and can be traced back to a ratty foreman. ( Be he union or not). One last thing. The power company's are sacling back. Western Resources retired about 200 men. Did not replace them. Hired Par Electric to replace the dock crews. These men will probably never have to travel again. That is 7 crews in Wichita alone. That does not include the 3 roving high line crews in the area.Construction Lineman, is the tramping life it use to be. I'll just enjoy my union retirement I have said enought on the subject.

I have an interview at Selcat on July 11th. Can anyone tell me what to expect???

Battman, The cold reality in our industry is that not every company out there is union. And not every kid out there wanting to get a ticket has the chance to work for a union company. Lots of companies out there won't even talk to a guy that isn't a journeyman. So what's a young guy supposet to do, bus tables hoping that someday he'll get a call from his local? If he can get on with a company that's willing to train him, what's the problem? There are good programs out there that are used by non-union and union companies like the MJTS program. There are also some companies out there that use not so good programs like the one Red Simpson peddles. I don't know a thing about the ABC program, so I won't even try to comment on it. I kind of think you do everyone a disservice when you constantly spout off about how everything union is good, and everything non-union is bad. After awhile guys just expect that you’ll step on anything non-union. Sure there are a lot of contractors out there that don't want to train their guys - because they don't want to pay them and they figure that they will just leave once they have their tickets. Safety is usually the last priority on their list. But there are non-union utilities and contractors out there that are serious about providing quality training and safety practices. And another interesting development is utilities that require contractors to have good training programs. I think you would come off as more sincere if you put your focus on safety and training and lightened up on he union thing a bit. Just my $.02.

Anybody heard anything about- Hawaiin Electric Co. Any info. on this company would be appreciated.

Anyone that has a chance to be trained for free would be an idiot not to take advantage of it. See you spell bad I can't make a sentence make any sense sorry guys

Batman I did not trash what you said just tried to give the information that I know.The union has made great steps for all of us in this trade that is not up for debate union or non union. The ABCI program is employer funded that is no money out of pocket for the employee, anyone that has the chance to be trained for free would be an idiot at least in my opinion. I said nothing about lineman colleges, I think they are a bunch of bullshit, you spend 3 months in training and learn to climb a clean pole in 30 seconds wow big fucking deal.Batman you and I have already talked about Dead Simpson so no need to waste the time anyone who works for them needs to watch their ass. The young kids have a choice but in some areas the power companies are not hiring people that do not have a ticket so what are the young guys to do???. Steve we are on the same page, but look at it with diferent glasses, you have valid points and so do I, the debate is good for all to read Thanks for the responce, and do not worry about the spelling because I do not care ALL BE SAFE

Yes I know after posting and reading I misspelled some words. (here for hear) (wan for want) maybe some more.

Feederman I don't know who you work for and I don't care. ABC is a bunch of Low wage no decent Health Care contractors, fighting prevailing wages across the United States. Don't give me that can't hack it can't stay lazy bull. ABC would not be paying half the wages it now has to pay, because unions estabilish the standards. If you don't believe this you are a fool. The government didn't give you a 40 hour work week unions did. Over time wasn't a government hand out. Feederman if you don't take anythings else from the IBEW at least go to http://ibew.gov and look up the history of the IBEW. Ever heard of SWEPCO They wanted to reduce forces. They required their older lineman to move to different areas. One lineman that owned his own home in Kingsville Texas had a Choice of El Paso or get fired. Whats that 700 miles? The nearest non union REA is 9 miles from my house here in Kansas. It is ran by a group of Co/Op members. Till the lineman finally got the IBEW to come in and organize them they had little in wages and benefits. They had a Real Simon LaGree type dictator. Well he is gone and the board has been set stright by losing the NLRB case the union brought against the REA. Feederman I have worked some storms on properties of non union utilities. They treat their men fair and pay them good wages. When we union hands leave, we leave the utility with a good taste in their mouth. IBEW lineman are mostly crossed trained in every phase of electrical work. They are given 25 ccollege hrs for this 3 year program. They are moved to different contractors so their training has a muilt sided effect. They are well paid with benefits from the start, with little money paid out for training ( They have to buy books)You tell these kids to lay out money to go to these Line schools and ABC aprenticeship and I tell you you are a fool. The one thing I hear most from none union is I don't have to pay dues. Well I paid dues 37 years. When I retired it was $248 a year dues and 2% working dues, for a construction Lineman. Power companies dues are smaller. I have been retired since 28 June 2001.The last couple of years I worked I paid about $1650 a year in dues and that of course is tax deductable. Since retirement I have recieved every dime I paid in dues and more back. This is not even counting my union retirement plan. I have to pay for it buy I kept my union health insurance that covers all above medicare at 1/2 the cost of outside supplement insurance. You young kids listen. I will only say this once. I don't care who you work for. If you want to have something to retire on, Check out the IBEW outside apprentice program at I don't usally get this worked up. I really could care less how many idiots companies like Red Simpson kill. I just hate to here young kids being giving bad advice about their future.

The ABCI apprenticeship program is for the employees of non union contracters that want to earn a ticket in the lineman trade. The program is based on the employer takes care of the OJT and ABCI teaches the book smart end. The program is recognized nationally because the state board of education is the one to issue the ticket and the federal committee on apprenticeship. As for the wages and anti union part that is just fodder for the sand box and will never end. The put out or get passed up argument, no disrespect Batman, seniority by age or years of employment does not play with me if you cannot run with the herd than you are culled from the herd. If your sick we help if you are lazy we leave you. ALL BE SAFE

Here's a link to the ABC. They are the Companies behind Right to Work for less wages Bills. They are against prevailing wages, unions. They call it merit jobs, which is the same as piece meal or you have to put out at much as the next. You can't hach you can't stay age discrimation. Go to the following site and check out their story. http://www.abc.org/page.cfm?keyPageID=2

SOUNDS JUNKY, SEE IF IT'S IN THE NECA OR I.B.E.W.

has anyone here heard of ABC apprentice program and know anything about it? I have heard that it is nationally recognized and then I have also heard that it is a joke-any input?

JUST WONDERING WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE IN THE SELCAT PROGRAM!HOW OFTEN DO THEY TRANSFER YOU,AND IS IT WORTH IT OR WOULD IT BE BETTER TO GO NORTH! I'VE GOT FIVE YEARS IN LINE WORK BUT REALLY NEED TO GET ON WITH IT AND GET MY JY-TICKET!

CHECK OUT THE LOWER COLORADO RIVER AUTHORITY,IN AUSTIN,TX.(512)473-3200 ASK FOR BECKY CRUMLEY.

hello all. i've got a question for anyone out there, specifically anyone who's ever worked in the Tahoe area. I'm a lineman and my wife wants to move to Tahoe so I need some info about working in the snow or Sierra Pacific Powere so we can make our decision. Any help would be great!!! Thanks! gregandrobin50@msn.com

hello, i was wondering if anyone had information on companies that would sponser me for a green./card work permit. im presently a lineman in Northern Ireland and for the past 2 years have been trying to imagrate without any success. any information would be greatfull.thanks for your time and stay safe. Go on get up that wooden stick!

Need Lineman with Electrician abilities for remote Alaskan location. Must have verifiable Lineman hours to qualify as Journeyman under OSHA standards. Benefits available after one month probation. We normally work all lines de-engerzied with bucket trucks. Seldom put on hooks. 2,400, 6,900, and 13,800 delta volatages. Combo of overhead and underground. Must have cable splicing abilities. Minimum one year contract. Housing and vehicle provided. Great hunting and fishing area. Largest caribou in Alaska, no closed season or limit. Fax resume to (907) 592-4262.

To Brent,The SMUD deal is like this,they dont want any sissy's.I went to their pre appr. class and climbed my ass off!Be prepared to climb and then climb some more.It kicked my ass a little bit, but those guys are there to help you and to find out if you got the balls or not!I went and decided I wanted to work for a contractor instead .But sometimes I wish I was still at Smud,Sacramento is a nice place to live and they have lots of work. The best thing you can do is be in shape!We put on our boots in the morning and then took of running, it sucks running laps in wesco's but it weeds out the sissy's.Start running at home and doing some cardio stuff cuz you wiil need it, no jokeing BE IN SHAPE!! The rest is easy do what the instuctors tell you and listen ,they dont want to help no cry babbies,or guys that dont pay attention.They get paid to go there and find out what guys can make it as lineman so take advantage of thier experience and pay attention.When I went they had two instructors ,Mike Basil and another guy named Greg ?????.They were pretty damn good guys,they wanted to help you as much as they could, but you got to want it to!Listen to them and trust what they tell you, they wont let you get hurt or let you fuck nothing up! If you need more info ,feel free to ask.fattappyhorse@yahoo.com

Hi there I gather you'r looking for woodpole linesmen. I'm currently working in Ireland for ESB upgrading their MV network,I'm very interested in seeking work elswhere, can you help?My email address is garyclaxton@netscape.net I'm keen to hear from you. Regards Gary

well dude thank you for the feed back i appreciate it ....yeah i know miami is a shit hole ..lol..well do u know of any other company in florida looking 4 cable splicer besides FPL ...WELL TY AGAIN

Danny Try FPL they are always looking for cable splicers, but Miami is a SHITHOLE and needs to be flushed.Good Luck

Hello ya well im a journeymen cable splicer looking 4 work in the Florida miami area ..I have about 9 year exp. with all type of cable ..I do the lost art of paper and lead splices ..im very good at it haven`t had 1 cable blow up on me yet ..i got trained by old timer and it is craftmanship type work that a lot of people don`t know about. I belong to I.B.E.W LOCAL UNION 222. BUT I HAVE WORK NO UNION B 4.S o if any one know of work in this area let me know thank you brother

looking for raybo, i was in the military in ft. myer/ft.macnair... motorcycles

Hello, I am looking to change companies in my line of work something closer to home, if you hear of anything please contact me. I live in Belton,Tx. and I work in Austin,Tx. The traveling to and from is why I would like to be closer to home. My Email adress is LAURA.POSAS@SBCGLOBAL.NET I currently work for Red Simpson Inc.

Hello, I am looking to change companies in my line of work something closer to home, if you hear of anything please contact me. I live in Belton,Tx. and I work in Austin,Tx. The traveling to and from is why I would like to be closer to home.

what is up all you baddasses? the B-man is back looking for that next trail.....know me?

Hey Big M, Tell Shizznatt Tomboy'z suck's!!!!!!!!!!

Someone said that was your writing???

Hey Big M,what's up!Who wrote D.Hill's rock's on my board???

Anyone go through the Calnev or Selcat programs?? I just applied to both of them and I believe I meet all the requirements. Selcat is supposed to have interviews in July sometime and I'm hoping I get a phone call for them. Does anyone know how the Interview goes?

been a lineman for past 25 years,now ankles are shot knees are gone,and know one gives a shit. but i still go every day.and you young guys still want to be a lineman?

My company/school issued us bashlins and I inherited a set of buckinghams. I am eager to try the bucks, but the gaffs do not seem to be replaceable. I have been climbing for less than a year in a controlled environment and have built up confidence in the bashlins but the buckinghams seem to be lighter and more comfortable. Any ideas on how to replace the individual gaffs? They look like they were pressed in.(by machine)

Reading my text below it looks like when I copeid and pasted in the text from Microsoft Word, 1/4 inch somehow was changed to Z/v inch. This is in the "Cutout Test" section. Damn computers...

I thought that rather than criticism, you might be interested in the proper methods for sharpening and testing your gaffs. I hope this helps you out. Work Safe! - Dave Sharpening Gaffs Gaffs should be inspected and checked before each use, and checked frequently with a "gaff gauge" for minimum length. Minimum length of 1-1/4 inch, measured on the under side of the gaff. The Gaff Gauge checks for proper width one-half inch and one inch from the point. The proper thickness is also checked at two points; one-half inch and one inch from the point. The gaff gauge has slots and scribe marks for each of the measurements. A slot is also provided for the proper shaping of the chisel shaped point of the gaff. To sharpen a gaff, use clean sharp 10-inch mill file. Set the climber between small blocks of wood in a vise, if one is available, with the underside of the gaff uppermost. File from the heel to the point, holding the file flat on the surface, raising the file on the back stroke. Keep the file clean to avoid scoring the gaff steel. Remove only sufficient material to obtain a good point. Round over slightly at the point by tipping the file over slightly making in effect a chisel point. This places a radius on the underside of the tip of the gaff and will reduce the chances of slips and cutouts. After proper shaping and sharpening of the gaff lineman should hone the flat underside of the gaff with a pocket carborundom stone. This will assist in the proper penetration of the pole. The edges should be knife sharp so caution is advised while working with gaffs. The proper "gaff guards" will assure the protection of the gaffs, equipment, & personnel. The outside of the gaff should not be materially changed. If it is necessary to remove any metal to obtain the proper width, be careful not to round-off toward the point, or a tendency to cut out will result. Under no circumstances is any material to be removed from the back or ridge of the gaff. This too would have a tendency to cause cut outs. The length of the gaff for climbing wood poles should be not less than one and one quarter inches, measured on the underside from the heel of the gaff to the point (the size of a fifty cent piece). Testing Climber Gaffs We stated earlier that climbing equipment should be checked before each use. To check the accurate shape and sharpness of the gaff use either the "plane" or the "cutout" test. The Plane Test The plane test may be used to determine that the climber gaff is properly sharpened to cut into the pole like a chisel. Place the climber on a soft pine or cedar board. Holding it upright, but with no downward pressure on the stirrup, push the climber forward along the board. If the gaff is properly shaped and sharpened, and if the gaff angle with the wood is sufficient, the gaff point will dig into the wood and begin to hold within a distance of approximately one inch. The Cutout Test The cutout test may be made to determine whether the gaff will cut out of wood when the angle between the leg iron and the surface of the wood is reduced beyond the critical point. When the gaff is not properly sharpened or has a hook-nosed point or a convex ridge, it will cut out. To make the cutout test, jab the climber gaff into a soft pine or cedar board at an angle of about 30 degree and with sufficient force to penetrate the wood to a depth of Z inch or more. Hold the gaff in place in the wood and bring the leg iron down against the wood surface, applying forward pressure on the stirrup with one hand while holding the leg iron with the other hand. If the gaff is in proper condition, it will tend to cut in deeper rather than cut out. If the gaff is not properly shaped and sharpened it will cut out within a horizontal distance of 3 inches or less, leaving a typical gaff cut-out mark or groove in the wood.

Well that ape school didn't teach you much. Learn to sharpen and shape those Buckinghams. There is a reason that the Army and Ma Bell give their people Buckingham hooks. They are good. I climbed High line 37 years in 3 sets of Buckinghams. I tried by borrowing and climbing in Kliens, Brooks, Bashlins and some outside fitting les irons from Canada. I would not wear them long. I hung dollies (Traveler) on over 1000 miles of 345 KV never taking our hooks off in a 12 hr day. We checked our hooks every morning, knocked the rock burries off and sharpened them about once a week. Heres another tip. The metal in the shanks get brittle. A step in hooks will take the strenght out of the shank. Never replace more that 2 sets of gaffs in any brand of hooks. Nothing worst than having a hook break off decending a pole

Hi everyone, I've just completed apprentice lineman school and I have some questions on hooks. The school/company gave us Buckingham climbers. The gaffs don't have much of an angle towards the poles while the bashlin climbers have a greater angle towards the poles. We climb alot of the cca poles and I've already cut out twice(not fun). Are the Bashlins better hooks? The guys in my crew seem to think that I would be better off with them.

answer to brad more money then you make elsewhere thats why. there is a nz company that has info contact at nzpowerconstruction@xtra.co.nz

I would like some info on a company called Red Simpson Inc. How do they treat their employee's and how is their safty record Thanks

The US Post office has issued a Muslim Stamp 1yr 1mo and 9 days after 911. I have started a campaign to have the post office remove this stamp as a slap at the ones in the service of our country in the fight of Terrorism Below are a few responces. USPS New stamp http://shop.usps.com/images/02_eid37_t.jpg can you believe this crap, put out by the US Government ? This one is impossible to believe. Scroll down for the text. If there is only one thing you forward today.....let it be this! REMEMBER the MUSLIM bombing of PanAm Flight 103! REMEMBER the MUSLIM bombing of the World Trade Center in 1993! REMEMBER the MUSLIM bombing of the Marine barracks in Lebanon! REMEMBER the MUSLIM bombing of the military barracks in Saudi Arabia! REMEMBER the MUSLIM bombing of the American Embassies in Africa! REMEMBER the MUSLIM bombing of the USS COLE! REMEMBER the MUSLIM attack on the Twin Towers on 9/11/2001! REMEMBER all the AMERICAN lives that were lost in those vicious MUSLIM attacks! Now the United States Postal Service REMEMBERS and HONORS the EID MUSLIM holiday season with a commemorative first class holiday postage stamp. REMEMBER to adamantly and vocally BOYCOTT this stamp when purchasing your stamps at the post office. To use this stamp would be a slap in the face to all those AMERICANS who died at the hands of those whom this stamp honors. REMEMBER to pass this along to every patriotic AMERICAN you know. Why is the Eid stamp being issued? Question Why is the Eid stamp being issued? Answer Thank you for using our website. The Eid stamp commemorates the two most important festivals-or eids-in the Islamic calendar: On these days, Muslims wish each other "Eid mubarak," tbe phrase featured in Islamic calligraphy on the stamp. "Eid mubarak" translates literally as "blessed festival," and can be paraphrased as "May your religious holiday be blessed." The Eid stamp joins the Christmas, Hunukkah, and Kwanzaa stamps as a part of our holiday stamp series. While the Postal Service is proud of a stamp program that celebrates the rich diversity of our American culture, we do recognize that some individuals may disagree with our judgment about a particular stamp. So that no one need purchase any stamp they find objectionable, we produce a variety of stamps in various denominations. Thank you for your interest in our stamp program. The reference number for your question is '030519-000065'. You should receive a response by e-mail from our support department within the 3 business days. If you need to add information to or cancel your question, you can do so by updating it through the questions subarea of the 'My Stuff' section of this

I instructed at two line colleges ALL types of companies visited to hire students. True that irby and rsi were there, but so were utility companies, coops, and jatc's. Union, non-union it doesnt matter they were all there. I dont know about the apprenticeship stuff you talk about but it is kind of funny that you blame the line college for the cheating that the lineman and foreman do.

Nothing to this work. 1] Watch as you work with different Jy lineman. This work is all repetition. If he shows you once he should not have to show you again. Take each Journeymans tricks and keep the best, discard the worst. 2] Except for asking questions about sometime you would like to know, Keep your mouth shout and your eyes open. Nothing gets your @$$ on the !t list than a know it all newbee. 3] I spent 27 years in the trade. I was still learning and teaching every day. GOOD LUCK

Fresh out of climbing school (for union position) any tips on how to impress the journeymen I'll be working for would be greatly appreciated. When I graduate I will be a lineman, but I want to be a good lineman, and I think that will greatly depend on the relationships I develop with the journeymen I work with. Thank you

this message is for the guy from newzeland, if you are already ajourneyman lineman, you might try getting on with georgia power. the lineman test you will have to pass is a tough one but if you have plenty of experience it should be no problem. get on the web site, southerncompany.com and go to the ga.power home page. I have been there for 3yrs,and i will make lineman in 2005.

Try this company for work New Zealand Power Construction Ltd

Hello, I made it through SMUD's pre-apprentice performance testing--a very interesting experience. I think we lost more than half of the testing group. Anyway, I'm on the waiting list, and hopefully I will get called up for an interview soon. I'm interested in any advice for the interview such as dos/donts, preparation, what to expect, etc. I appreciate any and all help. Best Regards, Brent

Why are our experienced Linemen leaving this country ? A, is it the weather, B, is it the pay, or C, is it the way the linemen are getting treated in this country.

I was interested in takimg a look at the GATB Aptitude test

Any Lineman not working call IBEW Locals 304 Topeka Ks,1002 Tulas Ok, and Local 53 Kansas City Mo. Lots of storm damage. Lots of overtime.

I WANT AAAAALLLLL YOU LINESMAN OUT THERE TO PUT ON YOUR SPIKES AND STAMP YOUR FEET AND DO THE............BLANNA BEAT!!!!! DO NOT FORGET BOYS 6TH JULY 2003 SUTHERLAND HOTEL NEWQUAY

The Line College people know about IRBY and Red Simpson and other non-union companies. They know they are unsafe and have very poor apprenticeship training. What the non-union contractor do for the line college is place their students. Then the line colleges can advertize these high placement rates. The high placement rates help to atttract students which make more money for the line colleges. Now the line colleges are developing their own apprenticeship programs. Keep going to the line colleges they are the best thing to happen to the non-union contractors. Training has always been a problem for the non-union, because they don't want to put $$$$ trainng. The line colleges are develpoing apprenticeship programs for anyone to use. For additional $1,500.00 anyone con become a lineman. Take the tests at home or on the job, if the test is to hard send the foreman for some beer and look up the answers. Line Colleges are the worst thing to happen to ours trade. I know it's hard to except that if you already paid your $7,000.00.

mite want to no loc 77 has big work comin did a deal with 46 inside wireman send to school for 2 weeks and send them out as line man only 46 hands though no other inside loc

hi guys,i'm from newzealand. and i'm just enquiring about possible work in the states. is anyone able to assit me in the right direction.it would b much appericated

I am preparing for Canadian Electricity Code Examination having 09 years experience backhome. Any body may give information for it. e-mail : ali_guhar110@yahoo.com

Rising Sun / Conowingo area? US, Germany, Al, Tx, Ca, NY,? Try http://www.njatc.org/apprentice/outside.htm This will put you in touch with IBEW Apprenticeship Also check http://www.ibew.org/jobs Click on your state and check availability of apprenticeship classes in that area. Telephone cable splicer. You can also check that site forjob locals in Tele. I was not able to come up with any listed on have a job .com

I reside in the Rising Sun / Conowingo area. I am very interested in the courses offered and I would like to make a career out of this position

Hi! I am a telephone cable splicer with 25 years experience looking for telephone work anywhere in the USA or overseas too. If anyone has any information of work coming up, please email me at Smergles@yahoo.com. Thanks and Good luck to all my fellow buddies who are also out of work and scrambling trying to find employment.

There must be a block on web site address they did not post. So go to IBEW.org and click on appenticeships and follow the leads it will take you to local apprenticeship chapters. Follow Outside Transmission apprentice.

Again after posting with all informantion about becomeing a lineman people still ask. As for as I am concerned line schools you pay for is money out of your pocket, when there is places thowning money at you to learn linework.Dah big choice. IBEW Apprenticeship equal 24+ collage hrs. when finished. On the job training, and pay starting at 60% Jouirneyman. Does it take a rocket scientist to see a good place to start. Prior exprience in some cases will be used in awarding completion hrs. Some lineman looking into joining the union has a better chance now with all the power companies reduceing crews for contract work. Looking into apprenticeship go to the following wes sites I spent my life (37 yrs) as a IBEW construction lineman. I started with Houston Light and Power. Never liked the power company same place every day. Quit and built high lines all over the states and Zaire, and Saudi Arabia. Great life Now retirees just came back off the road after 45 day trip. Spending that retirement money.

Sorry to bother you guys with what might seem to be a stupid question but.. I've been a "lineman" for a big telephone co. for five years now and would like to make the move to an electric utility or contractor. After working some storms and call outs with the power companies, I've decided I like your kind of work better. My question is how to start an apprenticeship, or is it worth it to attend a school like South East Lineman Training Center? The utilities I have spoken to want journeyman or "C" lineman, one step below "hotstick" and although I can climb, operate equipment, and identify distribution power systems, obviously I am not qualified as an electrical lineman.(not even close). Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

what the hell are you talking about and who the hell is PTW?

I took my car in to PTW for servie and they jamed my car door up against somehing maybe a wall I took them to cour and all the evidence pointed to PTW and PTW even said that there was no damage on my car when I brought it in but when I picked it up there was damage and I showed it to them. The Judge heard all this evidence and said the reason i did not win the case is because I did not have dates on my surveillance tapes. I did not purchase serveillance around my home to catch someone outside my yard doing damage to my car. I trused PTW to fix my car not damage it. The judge kept the pictures and other papers that I gave her for the case but she said that I can appeal. What should I do? All the damage is done to the driver side car door.

Anyone can guide about the possibility of gettind a job in Usa for experienced woodpole line man trained in India.Its formalities and steps for work permit and visa.Thank you. Ricky e mail= timetour@jla.vsnl.net.in

CJ scroll down these posts until you get to a post dated 02 20 03 by Steve Batts he has posted the correct info you be in good hands

Gents, How the hell do you become a lineman. I want to! thanks billyzane1@excite.com

These are the some of the reasons that there is going to be a rally in Washington D.C. at the International office on April 14th. it's also why the OMOV (one member one vote)got started. We are tired of paying these people to represent us and yet they always seem to side with the contractors.

DOES ANYONE KNOW OF ANY APPRENTIANCE POSITIONS OPEN IN FLORIDA?

drwelect is right, the IO better get off their rear-ends and start supporting the locals or there won't be any dues paying members left to pay for their fat-cats. First Energy is pulling the same crap here in New Jersey. The trend in the industry seems to be to not honor the contract or work rules, and try to break the locals bank account by making them take every little thing to court.

Scott, my advice after a life time in the business is as follows: Look for a better job in an area of the country you like. Your life could depend on it. There are plenty of good jobs around. Do not go over anyones head to fight the situation. I can guarintee that they will end up the loser by unemployment. Then try to explain to prospective employers why you left your previous job.

Just would like to know how the Peco union drive is going?

Scott, Gather all your grievances and notes and contact the IO. If you guys have a good beef, then they will get your rep to do his job. Or get your guys together and organize a sick-out. It may take a couple of times for it to work, but then your rep will get pressure to look into the reasons for a sick-out and force him to get mngt to the table and discuss "issues".

Im new to this board and actually I am trying to get into the trade over here in Michigan.....My question is arent theses companies all supposed to work as a team??....I dunno ive talked to a few lineman and right off the bat they give off a "take no shit" attidude which I respect.

I am a union steward who represents a group of lineman and a brother steward at Southern California Edison. These men are constantly bullied, harassed, and discriminated against. We have appealed to the company EO department. They replied, " cant help you". The union rep says our claims have no merit, but will not look at our hard evidence. I filed a grievance on harrassment for some of these men. The rep keeps pulling it. And says it is not true. Everytime they try to stand up for a honest cause they are retalliated against. We have had 3 work place violence incidents. One of them resulting in an industrial acciedent in front of witnesses. Our safty has been jepeordized and our personal safty equipment tampered with. Can anyone help or direct us to stop this wrong doing? We seek honest independant council that can not be influanced or intimidated by this corp or state politics. this will help us redeam ourselves from our misfortune and start to create a healthier work enviornment for all our co-workers. Including the ones who are reluctant to stand up for there own health and safty. You can email me at Linehand66@aol.com Thank you

One more thing if you are going to apply for city of riverside there is a written test. the test is flaky and old but if interested I can help lineman out on the test. A good lineman doesn't mean he has to do good on test. A bad lineman will be weeded out on probation. So no flack about helping out a brother. fpaz@pacbell.net

hey clineman95 and anybody else interested you need to contact either randy olgren at 909) 351-6372 or ron cox at 909)3516373 let them know fpaz refered you will truly appreciate it and i'll buy the cuervo at the bar.

When I hear this rediculous name calling I have a hard time seeing them working on anything energized. I'm retired after a life-time of working with safe utility people. We were serious on the job, but had a good time as well. The utilities have taken good care of me and my family. The simple factor that has kept me alive is the fact that if you do not see a protective ground on the line - it is energized. If the line is energized treat accordingly, and wear your rubber gloves.

Yes the word Rat is used to freely and improperly to point out non union. The work should only be applied to union hands scabing non union jobs work both sides og the fence and and workers or companies cutting safety corners and risking the life of any lineman unio or non union. The only way to stop this killing is remove all companies from bid list for jobs when their mortility rate gets out of hand. Feederman I will discuss any issue with you any time tanks for the come back

Batman I see or hear the "Rat" and the first thing comes to mind is union vs non union bullshit that goes on,after reading your reply I understand what you are saying.The workers like KOTA are the ones that make the numbers for contractors like Red Simpson, last year they killed one in Central Florida and one in Texas less than an hour later, the sad part is the young kid in Florida ask to be removed from the crew he was with more than once because of unsafe work habits that wound up killing him.Batman on Florida Power and Light property non union out number union by about two or three to one due to the contracting out of work underground, overhead, substation you get the point. Ment no disrespect it's that dam rat word

if anyone else has any leads to jobs in Florida I would appreciate it if they would please post it here. thank you

thank you for the number Sara I will try to contact you later this week and look forward to talking with you

Dec 2000 Jan 2001 Storm Ice break Ark, Ok,Union and non union working 8 non union killed union none. Ther was more union on this break and no deaths. Most killed Ted Simson. Dumbest accident. Non union lineman backhanded a low wire before grabbing it. The line was 33 kv result dead. You look over my post. I did not bad mouth non union. I have set and drank beer in the old days in Kingsville Texas. They were making more money than me and not paying dues. I did bad mouth punk @$$ KOTA foreman. If he hasn't killed a young inexperienced lineman he will. I also pointed out the benefit differences. Feederman I have no idea who you are, but if you notice my post in other sites I have been carrying the OMOV message in my state Ks and in Mo. & Ok. Last in union & non union numbers as for as power company and construction I would have to see the new numbers as to who does the most work. Don't make a statement if you can't back it up. All the Ok, Ark deaths was posted by the company in OK. Public Services Of Oklahoma. Check it out. The other post of mine directly below the one you complain about, I told the kids and you lineman to think for themselves and did not mention union or non-union anywhere in hunting a apprentice program or job. Nor have I called non-union RAT. I did call KOTA Rat. Sounds like a jerk that would run over somebody to get ahead. They are in union and nonunion. Both are RATS. I have said enough. One Man One Vote

Batman you need to back the fuck off the union non union bullshit, when it comes to the amount of work related injuries non union contractors do far more work than union workers just by the number of workers compared. KOTA you need to go back screwing your sister you backwoods nose picking asshole, any lineman that can make it in Florida is welcome, union non union. Steve you bad mouth lineman because they are non union and do not pay union dues, the membership has a big problem with your own house so I don't blame anyone for not joining the corupt den of thieves that is your leadership, OMOV that should say enough.

Are you a line forman? You sound like a punk rat to me. There are plenty of union contractors that have work and you might be sick of unions because the lineman will not let you run over them. Union or non union somebody needs to bust you up side the head. I never seen a rat that could carry my tools on a high line. You notice that I have the guts to sign my name boy. Ask around I have been around a long time. Worked in most states and a few country's. So if you are so hot tell us you name company and the pay and benefits you get. How about company pickup (24 hrs & days), Credit cards, Company phone, Company stock, Union benefits and retirement ( Company pays $6.85 retirement) So rat boy line forman you stay in Florida. There is a lesson here for you young lineman. When someone like KOTA is on the job you don't be. He sounds like someone that will get you killed. Number one lesson about union non union compare the death rate.

Hey any of you "YANKS" thinking of coming to Florida for work, you better be ready to work for a contractor. The whole state has just about had it with union. You need to be as clean as the day you were born to get on with one of those corperations or co-ops.

Every time I come to this site someone else is trying to become a lineman. Please help me. Did you ever try scrolling down and read the entries? Did you go to the sites offered by me and other linehands that are trying to help? If you can't follow simple instructions or read when help is offered, you need to find another trade. Think and act like you have more than a 78 point IQ. You will never make it in line work and never be more than hired help at Burger King. That also goes for you that are already lineman. Help me find. Well you found this site. How did you get to this page and miss the employment page. Looking for a company. Use your computer yellow pages.. Go to http://ibew.org for Apprentice jobs or local numbers listed by state. Ask Jeeves about power companies by state. There is linework and jobs to be had. I wish I was able to work again. I love this trade. I also try to protect it. I don't want no candy@$$ cry babies that want help all the time. Everybody deserves help, but you must help yourself.

I need 2 lineman in Florida, 1-3 yrs exp. Call Sara at 877-602-0265.

Thank you!

Anybody know how to get a hold of ANDERSON an WOOD Line contractors. I worked with Barry Wood and Minnie MAC Tri Co in the 70's. Like to work a couple of seasonal Lineman Jobs.

If you are interested in becoming a lineman, you can either contact the contact the joint apprenticeship training commission, through your local IBEW, and get on the list, or you can hire on as a groundman or gas helper with a local utility and work your way up from there. It is sometimes a long hard road, but well worth the effort. I started as an 11-b myself and became a RANGER. If you maintain discipline and perseverence, you will achieve success. GOOD LUCK

IF THE CITY OF RIVERSIDE IS LOOKING FOR LINEMAN, LET ME KNOW WHO TO CONTACT.

I just got my CDL permit, but I need a truck to take the test in. Will any of the companies let me use thier truck if I get a job,or should I pay the money to rent a truck. I have heard from a couple of people that a CDL is a good + to get your foot in the door to become a lineman.

Hey guys I am looking at becoming a lineman. I would like to know the best place to go to school to get the best job, and the best school for the money. I am an infantry soldier getting out of the Army in a few short months. Can any of ya lineman give me some advice/direction? Thanks! email= Searchndestroy_11b@yahoo.com

HEY FPAZ, I READ YOUR MESSAGE ABOUT THE NEED FOR LINEMAN IN RIVERSIDE. I CHECKED THE CITY OF RIVERSIDE EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES AND DID NOT SEE OPENINGS FOR LINEMAN. I WORK FOR SDG AND E IN SAN DIEGO AND CANT AFFORD IT HERE. I WANT TO MOVE TO TEMECULA. SOME OF MY CO WORKERS ALREADY LIVE UP THERE. IF YOU GIVE ME CONTACT INFO, I GUARANTEE I HAVE SEVERAL INTERESTED CO-WORKERS INCLUDING MYSELF THAT WOULD LOVE TO HIRE ON WITH THE CITY OF RIVERSIDE. EMAIL ME AT aboyd95@cox.net

LOTS OF SQUATS...... and running or bike riding!!!!!!! PPl were droping like Flys in my group!!! Good Luck

I want to become a lineman willing to start anywere if anyone knows of any ground man positions avalable or grunt e-mail babygromm@AOL.com i live in AZ but willing to move anywere

Do they need apprentices at all???.......lemme know......JBrzoz00@aol.com

I am considering enetering the linesman trade... Was curious if anyone knows about the volume of work in the midwest...Illinois indiana primarily.

Only contact I have for Penn. is Tom Leach at (610) 489 1185. or email lu126ibew@nni.com At this present time the future in linework is unlimited. You may have to go to where the work is.

I work for the city of riverside in california. We are desperately in need of lineman. We have good bene. one of them is overtime is doubletime with paid rest time if start working any time before 2am.

Well, I asked for some help before about getting started as a lineman in the Philadelphia area. Remember, I am the ex-dairy farmer, used to climbing high silos, working 18-hour days, and have two semesters in electrical studies. I really would like to pursue this career path. The local utility is PECO, but no job openings posted for lineman. Should I start at my local IBEW? A little help please!

does anyone have any suggestions as to a place that is hiring in Florida? From my understanding the job opporunities down there are incredible but I don't really want to get will a place that doesn't treat their employees right. I have submitted my resume to several places-anyone know anything about Southern Co. (I have heard mixed reviews)

Anyone have any hints as to how I might best prepare for the physical portion of the smud pre-apprentice lineman tests? I would appriciate any input! Thanks

25YR OLD WOODPOLE LINESMAN 7YRS EXP,LV LIVE+DEAD,HV11KV-33KV DEAD,CITB JCB 180 TICKET,STRIMACK TICKET,SEEKS INFORMATION AND ADVICE ON JOB OPPORTUNITIES OUTSIDE THE UK.NOT ON INTERNET BUT WOULD GREATLY APPRECIATE INFO SENT TO ME VIA E-MAIL TO DEANO11KV@AOL.COM

I just when to First Energy's website. Are there any better companies? Have you looked in this websites employment section. I checked out 1st Engery and thier start pay is $21.00. Would have had a hard time getting my hooks on for that scale boy. There is no place in the lower 48 that doesn't need lineman. Good luck. When I retired they where looking for 5 just to replace me. ( THATS A JOKE SON)

I also have been suspended by First Energy and can tell you that any job in the country is better. These bastards treat people like animals. I missed one call and they TRIED to fire me. I worked over 145 callouts last year! Missed ten maybee? I hope our union leadership gets organized soon. They cant replace us all. There are not enouph scabs in the country. Again, any job is better.

If your boyfriend has 4 years of working on 2400 volt and above he could be considered Journeyman Lineman by some utilities (old school). He may also be placed into an apprenticeship program with previous experience requiring him to complete their entire academic program, plus recording the balance of his OJT. I would not recommend a full time school with his experience. I'm afraid he will become bored and cause the school some problems. The utility will normally pay for his apprenticeship program. However, if he is having trouble finding a job a good school would help place him. Good schools are fine but should be checked out carefully. Good luck, we need good lineman.

If your boyfriend has been a lineman for four years, why does he need to go to a high-priced grunt school?

Hey guys. My boyfriend Robb has been a lineman for four years and now has the opportunity to go to Northwest Lineman's school for free if he can find documentation that states/proves that lineman are needed in today's workforce or that the industry is growing and the need for lineman in the future is out there..can anyone help.. please e-mail me at hiedi_maughan@hotmail.com with any information that you might have to help us out..We both would appreciate it..Thank you and be safe. Hiedi

500 KV line in WA. will start April. Have to go through Local 77 in Spokane WA. 1-509-328-8670.

If it is not grounded it is not dead. How many feed sources? Can you see both ends of runs? What about induction from other sources? Underground has great potential for induction build up. Will crews at either end have energizing potential thought accidental contact? Your Choice. More production or going home to wife, kids, or lovers. This is your choice not company.

any know anything about the 500 kv line that is suppose to be built in washington state. any info harsyahc@aol.com

Dear Pickone Call SELCAT @ 770-964-1042. If you have a HS Dipl. or GED and CDL you can qual. for interview.

The company I am working for is having a debate on keeping one end of a cable grounded at all times or being able to take off grounds from both ends and proceeding on with changing the termination. Does anybody have any opinions on this? Some feel that ground mats are necessary. While some feel that this would take way to much time to set up and to keep the mats clean would be near impossible when trying to still be productive and still not provide anymore protection from the difference in potential if it were to occur. While others feel that if you just stay in good comunication and cover everything up that this should be all the protection needed. How about some feed back?

Underground Grounding

OK, here's the deal. I used to be a dairy farmer, things didn't work out on the family farm. Have a strong interest in electrical, think I would like to pursue a lineman career. Can anyone tell me where I would start the process in the Philadelphia area?

Bdorf!!! Stop by any union hall and purchase you a tramp guide. I have one for home and one in the truck. Never knew when I blew a fuse and had to have a job. You know the old saying? My @$$ is Red; My money is green #### this contractors electrical machine.

Brother you can go to this site and they have a link to a online Tramp Guide the link is on the left side of the main page. ibewminuteman.com

Hello. I am attending school in Jackson MN and I will be graduating in May 2003. I will be looking for an apprentice job. I love the line field and I am a hard worker. If anyone is looking get ahold of me. Thanks

Thanks for the numbers brother. I've heard about tramp guide before is it also on the web? Im new in the trade so I dont know alot of the contacts that the old timers do. Thanks again. Bdorf

Brother I checked the tramp guide and there is only 2 outside Locals listed for Michigan. Local#17 Detroit also a utility local (248)423-4540, address-17000 W. 12 Mile Road Southfield,MI.48076 Local#876 Grand Rapids also a Utility Local (616)784-1133 5749 Vinton Ave.,N.W. Comstock Park,MI 49321 Utility Locals listed are Escanaba #979 (906)786-1773 Houghton #510 (906)225-5010 Iron Mountain #219 (906)779-1505 Lansing #352 (517)482-3131 Hope these help.

Wondering what the union hall phone number is for Grand Rapids, Battle Creek and Lansing area.

I know this board is both Union and Nonunion Lineman and we come together here without the poison I have seen at other sites. I think that is great, because union or not we are brothers in a trade that seen good times and bad. I wish I was 20 years younger, because this day in time I see so many opportunities now that was not there 10 years ago. It is up to you younger brother to step up look over that older linemans shoulder and learn every good trick in the book. Don't forget the bad ones either. Because when you see someone screwing up your knowledge could save his or your live. Just talked to a brother @ 5:30 this morning he was trying to start his truck to go to work. It was 3 degrees in Wichita Ks and he was pissed. Have a good and safe day

For those that don't know, our ex I.P. is on the Board of Directors. washingtonpost.com Union Firm Pressured on Claims of Insider Trading State Insurance Regulator and AFL-CIO Officials Seek Report on Ullico Board Members' Alleged Profits By Thomas B. Edsall Washington Post Staff Writer Tuesday, January 21, 2003; Page A04 New pressures are mounting on a union-owned insurance company, Ullico, to take action against its president and chief executive officer, Robert Georgine, and to disclose details of a confidential investigation into alleged insider stock deals that produced millions of dollars for Georgine and some other board members. The Maryland Insurance Administration has subpoenaed the report into the Ullico stock trades along with all company documents supplied in connection with three federal inquiries into possible criminal and civil violations. Ullico is challenging the commission's authority in Baltimore County Circuit Court in hopes of having the subpoena quashed. Thomas Green, a lawyer for Ullico, said the report of former Illinois governor James R. Thompson does not fall within the scope of material subpoenaed, a claim disputed by Steven B. Larsen, the Maryland insurance commissioner. Green, who said he could not disclose the advice he has given Ullico officials, is known to believe that Georgine and other board members did nothing wrong in the stock transactions which, in the view of Ullico's defenders, are not uncommon in privately held firms. But pressures to release the internal report are coming from local union leaders angry over damage to the labor movement from the stock allegations, and from top union presidents preparing to push anti-Georgine resolutions at an AFL-CIO Executive Council meeting in Florida next month. In a letter to Edward C. Sullivan, president of the national Building and Construction Trades Department of the AFL-CIO, two leaders of the DuPage County Building and Construction Trade Council in suburban Chicago said the Ullico stock deals are "an embarrassment of injustice to the labor movement." They urged Sullivan to secure "the resignation of those who are guilty of any inappropriate activity and who would reduce union leadership to the low levels of dignity recently reserved for corporate leaders from the likes of Enron, Arthur Andersen, etc." Some international union presidents, in turn, are exploring the possibility of offering resolutions at the AFL-CIO meeting calling on Georgine to resign and calling on Ullico to release the Thompson report. After the stock controversy became public, the Ullico board authorized a confidential investigation by Thompson, who is also a former U.S. attorney. His report, sources said, was highly critical and reportedly called on those who profited from the stock deals to return the money to the company. For Georgine, the amount of money that would have to be returned under the report's recommendation, the sources said, is $6 million to $7 million. Other board members allegedly received amounts ranging from less than $10,000 to almost $1 million. Ullico is a private company, and its stock is not available to the general public. Board members, however, were able to buy company stock in 1999 at $54 a share and knew it soon would be revalued at $146. At the end of 2000, the board voted to buy back shares at the $146 price reportedly in the full knowledge that the stock was soon to be devalued to $71. The Ullico controversy has provoked a significant split within organized labor, pitting Georgine, a former president of the AFL-CIO's powerful Building and Construction Trades Department, and some of his allies against AFL-CIO President John J. Sweeney and several other union presidents. They include Frank Hanley, president of the International Union of Operating Engineers. Sweeney and Hanley resigned from the Ullico board to protest the secretiveness surrounding the Thompson report. Most sources involved in the dispute said Georgine has the votes on the board to keep the report under wraps. The board includes many retired union presidents picked by Georgine, and a number of them profited from the stock deals. Georgine and other officials at Ullico declined to comment on the growing controversy. "We are going to take a pass," said company spokesman John Rodgers. The most immediate and direct challenge to the refusal of the Ullico board to release the Thompson report has been mounted by the Maryland Insurance Administration. Larsen, the insurance commissioner, has demanded "all documents reflecting the acquisition, sale, transfer or disposition of stock of Ullico by any member of the board," and all documents the company has produced in connection with a series of investigations into possible civil and criminal violations by "the U.S. Attorney, the Securities and Exchange Commission [and] the Department of Labor," according to court documents. A preliminary draft of the Maryland Insurance Administration examination of Ullico, which was filed in the court dispute over the subpoena, said that "as of September 30, 2001, the company's financial condition deteriorated significantly." It called on Ullico to "immediately develop and submit a plan . . . that addresses the downward trend in the company's financial condition." © 2003 The Washington Post Company

I am looking for poems about linemen. Does anyone know where I can find such a thing? I am particularly interested in a poem about the tradition of linework between father and son. Anything would be nice though!

The Rally will be held outside the International Office Gather and Disperse at 1125 15TH St. N.W. , Washington DC 10:00am to2:00pm RALLY AGENDA ·To Promote Brotherhood ·To Promote 'One Man One Vote' ·Let the IO know there is more than just a 'handful' of Members concerned with the way issues are being handled by OUR International Officers. ·To let OUR International Officers know we want Representation for OUR Members ,not the Contractors. ·Return of Local Autonomy. ·Due Process before IO taking over of a Local. ·No more 'Sweetheart Deals', negotiated by the IO or District Councils. ·Curb Organizing until more present Members are employed. ·Avidly begin working on one IBEW Health and Welfare Plan ,until then; ·Full Reciprocity of H & W Benefits. ·Category 1 Language addressing the 'Right to Reject'. ·Require all Locals to use the International Jobs Board until a Computer sign-in is implemented. ·Implement a National Computer Sign-in so Members don't have to spend money and time chasing work and re-signing.

Hello Do you know when local 17 accepts applications for apprentice lineman???

still looking for oncore construction or oncore utility in the dallas ft.wourth area.really need to find a job so i can get out of the cold in michigan any help would be great.work for contractor now re-build and high line construction.primary, secondary,services,pretty much do it all.just need some leads.thanks.kapt.kirk

does anyone know what the SELCAT, JATC program is like?

Brothers The IBEW is not the only union having problems getting OMOV instituted. Brother Steve I don't know why that article didn't post right. But here is another story for all. From Wednesday's Wall St. Journal: January 15, 2003 Review & Outlook (U.S.) Bush's Labor Buddy President Bush has properly read the riot act to corporations about shareholder democracy, but his Administration is turning a blind eye to a similar problem in a surprising place -- Big Labor. That failure has now led to the principled resignation of his own Labor Department's acting solicitor, Eugene Scalia. The controversy concerns the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and its imperious president, Douglas McCarron. A group of Carpenters' dissidents can't get the Bush Labor Department to agree that a clear reading of labor law would invalidate the Byzantine election rules that Mr. McCarron has put in place to maintain his union control. A federal circuit court has chastised Labor's rebuff of the dissidents and ordered Secretary Elaine Chao to explain this refusal to challenge the McCarron roadblocks to democracy. But Ms. Chao has apparently decided to follow the 2000 precedent set by her Clinton predecessor, Alexis Herman, and continues to back Mr. McCarron. That a GOP Administration would side with Big Labor this way is striking enough, but especially so in the case of Mr. McCarron. He's notorious for stomping on union dissent, and he's one of those labor bosses who made out like Tyco in the Ullico scandal. Mr. McCarron has returned nearly $300,000 he gained through the insider knowledge he had of the union-owned insurance company's investment in Global Crossing. (See "Big Labor's Enron," August 20, 2002.) But none of this seems to bother the White House, which has courted Mr. McCarron since he took his union out of the liberal AFL-CIO in 2001 in a dispute over back dues. Mr. McCarron hosted Mr. Bush at two Labor Day picnics and was a rare labor leader invited to the President's economic forum in Waco last August. He's also led the union contingent backing Mr. Bush on Alaskan oil drilling, among other issues. Though the Carpenters give more than 80% of their political cash to Democrats, Mr. Bush no doubt hopes he can win Mr. McCarron's re-election endorsement in 2004. Now, working with union leaders is part of any President's job, but that shouldn't extend to overlooking Mr. McCarron's anti-democratic behavior. In order to protect his shaky hold on the union presidency back in 1996, he transferred almost all authority from the union's 2,200 locals to 55 regional councils. The locals were turned into shells and Mr. McCarron hand-picked the all-powerful council leaders under rules that virtually guaranteed their re-election. Clintonite Ms. Herman ruled for Mr. McCarron, notwithstanding ample Labor Department precedent that bodies like the regional councils can't usurp the powers of union locals unless council leaders are directly elected by union members. Secretary Chao agreed after she took office. But the First Circuit Court of Appeals ruled last February that Labor's legal position is illogical and indefensible because it goes against its own "regulation and prior decisions." Judge Juan Torruella, a Reagan appointee, went further in a concurring opinion and said Labor's decision against the dissidents was "arbitrary and capricious." The court sent the case back to Labor for a "more reasoned" explanation of its action. So the case landed on the desk of Mr. Scalia, who was given a one-year recess appointment in late 2001 for the top legal spot at Labor after Teddy Kennedy blocked a confirmation vote (claiming he wouldn't enforce the labor laws). Mr. Scalia and others at Labor felt that the law was clear and the Department's defense of the Carpenters' regional councils untenable. Early last week word spread that Secretary Chao was planning nonetheless to continue to argue the original Clinton position in court. Mr. Scalia, who was about to be renominated, promptly resigned, citing personal reasons and issuing a statement that "now is an appropriate time for me to leave the Department." Mr. Scalia declines further comment, and a Labor spokeswoman says the Carpenters' union case is still under review. The Labor Department also points out that the Bush Administration has banned all informal communications between the White House and enforcement agencies. Only last month Labor issued new financial reporting requirements for all unions that will make it easier for members to hold their leaders accountable. All fair enough, but that still begs the question of Mr. Scalia's sudden departure. Having slugged it out with Democrats for nearly a year to win his post, he's hardly likely to walk away for no good reason now that Republicans control the Senate. An Administration that prides itself on cleaning up after the anything-goes Clinton ethos shouldn't tolerate even the appearance that politics has trumped the rule of law. Questions will mount if Labor follows its Carpenters' decision with a failure to question Davis-Bacon laws mandating union wages on all federal construction projects; or if it doesn't aggressively challenge a district court decision striking down enforcement of the Supreme Court's Beck decision. That 1988 ruling, by noted liberal William Brennan, held that upon request unions must refund any dues not used for collective bargaining. It's understandable that Mr. Bush wants union support, but the way to win that is with issues. That's how GOP candidates regularly win from one-third to 40% of union households on Election Day. The worst way to court union votes is by going soft on "labor bosses" (Mr. Bush's words from 2000) who trample rank-and-file union rights. As for Mr. Scalia, we'd say Senate Democrats owe him an apology.

Go to the North East Public Power Association Website. If this link doesn't get through just go to google and search for them (www.neppa.org). Click on Safety and Training. And also click on Employment. There are a couple of apprentice jobs posted there. Good luck, and be sure to get into a company with a good apprentice program! Dave Bezesky Merchant Job Training & Safety www.mjts.com

HEY ! Spark304102 I think you are having a little scanner trouble. I can read it , but it posted screwed up or that is the dumbest court reporter in the world. Nice post there. OMOV

Joe I listed the IBEW Site on the last post, but apparently there is some kind of block it did not appear. So Search engine IBEW click on Apprentice Training and go from there

Joe go to the following Click on construction apprentice training the when you get there click on outside lineman. Or call (860) 646 7297. That is in the Rocky Hill Conn. Area. Email This is a good program and good pay while you learn: plus upon finishing the course you can turn in the hrs to also receive 23 college hrs. Beat that. With the retirement packages now you can retire and live a great life

Does anyone have any info on training or potential employment opportunities(Northeast) on becoming an apprentice Linemen. I have an electrical background and have performed some Telco and CATV linework, but would like to pursue a career as a Linemen. Any suggestions? Hey Greenhorn is the school you are referring to in Sprinfield MA? If so how did you get enrolled?

Ok really exited about ALBAT just wana know if any one has advice about the school befor I go in Feb. If any one in local 51 (Springfield) is going out thier let me know.

I am currently finishing up with my electrical schooling and am going to be graduating this May. I was wondering if you had any utility job openings for a lineman apprentice in Minnesota. I am a hard worker and have a firm grasp on what it takes. Very smart. please call: 1-320-282-4566

Regarding the aptitude testing for entry-level positions. You might want to check out the GATB Apptitude test. Description of the Test The General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB) was developed by the United States Employment Services and has been used since 1947 by state employment service offices. Since that time, the GATB has been included in a continuing program of research to validate the test against success in many different occupations. Because of its extensive research base, the GATB has come to be recognized as one of the best validated multiple-aptitude batteries in existence for use in vocational guidance. You might check your local state employment services office for details. Good Luck! Dave - dave@mjts.com Merchant Job Training & Safety

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FORTEE DISTRICT OF MARYLAND ____~t~ ___ ________ ~2C~ __~:~~ ELAINEL.CHAO,SECRETA.RYOFLABOR, : 1 Li’ UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF LABOR, : c~s7~Tc~:.:.Lc~ Plamtiff~ : v. : CIVtL ACTION JACK F. MOORE and JOHN M. GRAU, : No. AW-99-1283 Defendants. CONSENT ORDER Plaintiff, Secretary ofLabor, United States Department ofLabor (“Secretary”), filed a Complaint in this action on May 5, 1999 pursuant to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (“ERISA”), 29 U.S.C. § 1001 et seq., alleging certain violations by defendants Jack F. Moore and John M. Grau in connection with their responsibilities as trnstees ofthe National Electrical Benefit Fund (“Fund”). In the Complaint, the Secretary alleges that the defendants violated ERISA § 404(a)(l)(B), 29 U.S.C. § 1 104(a)(1)(B). The defendants filed an Answer denying the allegations of the Complaint. Counsel for the Secretary and counsel for the defendants have since engaged in settlement discussions and have agreed to resolve this case withoutfurther litigation. Therefore, upon motion ofthe plaintiffand with the consent of the defendants, this Consent Order is presented to the Court for its approval. 1. The Secretary has agreed to resolve all claims against the defendants for the following relief: .- . . Pagelof5 7: a. payment to the Fund of$4,950,000.00 within fourteen (14) days ofentry of this Consent Order, and b. payment to the United States Department ofLabor of$550,000.00, which shall constitute a penalty of twentypercent ofthe applicable recovery amount, as set forth in ERISA § 502(T), 29 U.S.C. § 1132(T). 2. For purposes ofthis Consent Order, defendants admit that the Court has jurisdiction over them arid the subject matter of this action. 3. The parties consent to the entry ofthis Consent Order without trial or adjudication ofany issue offact or law. 4. The parties and the Court agree that this Consent Order is without prejudice to the Secretary’s right to investigate and redress matters within her jurisdiction under ERISA not arising out of orrelating to the transactions and occurrences alleged in the Complaint, including the Secretary’s right to institute future enforcement actions with respect to any such other matter. This paragraph shall not constitute a waiver by defendants ofany defenses, legal or equitable, to any such future action. Accordingly, it is hereby ORDERED, ADJUDGED, and DECREED that: 1. This Court has jurisdiction over this action pursuant to ERISA § 502(e), 29 U.S.C. § 1132(e). 2. By no later than fourteen (14) days from entry ofthis Consent Order, defendants shall pay to the Fund the sum of$4,950,000.00 and provide the Secretary with proofthereof. 3~ Upon receiving proof offull payment of said $4,950,000.00 the Secretary will assess a penalty against the defendants in the amount of S550,000.00 which is twenty percent of Page2of 5 the applicable recovery amount, pursuant to ERISA § 502(l), 29 U.S.C. § 1132(l). The notice of assessment shall be addressed to counsel, James M. Kefauver, Esquire, Shulman, Rogers, Gandal, Pordy & Ecker, P.A., ..1 1921 Rockville Pike, 3rd Floor, BLockville, MD20852-2743. Defendants shall pay said penalty within fourteen (14) days of counsel’s receipt ofthe notice of assessment. 4. The complaint herein is dismissed with prejudice but this Court retains jurisdiction ofthis action for purposes ofenforcing compliance with the terms ofthis Consent Order. 5. Each party shall bear its own costs, expenses, and attorneys’ fees incurred in connection with any stage ofthis proceeding including, but not limited to, attorneys’ fees which may be available under the Equal Access to Justice Act, as amended. 6. This Consent Order shall operate as a final disposition ofall claims arising out of or relating to all the transactions and occurrences alleged in the Complaint. 7. Nothing in this Consent Order is binding on any governmental agency other than the United States Department ofLabor. 8. The Court directs the entry ofthis Consent Order as a final order. Dated: W/~ia.~ 1~ -~’aI~’. DeborahK. Chasanow UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE Page 3 of 5 • Plaintiff, through counsel, moves for the entry of this Consent Order. Post Office Address: Howard Rathely Acting Solicitor Catherine Oliver Murphy Regional Solicitor Catherine Oliver Murphy Office ofthe Solicitor Regional Solicitor U.S. Department ofLabor Suite 630E, The Curtis Center _____________________________ 170 S. Independence Mall West an M. Roller Philadelphia, PA 19 106-3306 Regional Counsel (215) 861-5127 AttorneylDNo. 11012 Myrna A. Butkovitz AttorneyLD. No. 01813 Richard T. Buchanan (admittedpro hac vice) Attorneys U.S. Department ofLabor Attorneys for Plaintiff Page4of 5 • Defendants consent to entry ofthis Consent Order. ‘,~z ~ Jac . Moore /~2t’f 4~ Johm1~M.Grau Shulman, Rogers, Gandal, Pordy & Ecker, P.A. M. Kefauver D. Cooper 11921 Rockville Pike, Third Floor Rockville, MD 20852 Attorneys for Defendants Jack F. Moore and John M. Grau Page 5 of 5

Any kiwi lineman out there??? I was wondering where you can get lineman tools/boots made in New Zealand or is everything shiped to you from over seas.. I was just curious

Does anyone have any insight as to what type of aptitude test would be given for an entry level linemens position?

how do all trying to get a line on a outfit called oncore out in the dallas ft.worth area.tired of the cold and want to get in contact with someone in that area any leads would be great thanks keeping the ice off the line

i need info on companies that work barehand from helicopters or buckets please email me at reeves_f@hotmail.com thanks

just an additional note about these recruiters, they are your your best friends until it comes time to pay up. Then they are just like a LAWYER, otherwise known as, THE DEVIL'S ADVOCATE.

hey union brothers I just wanted to warn you all about a scam that recruiters are advertising to get us to hire on with sdg&e in San Diego. The recruiter, Candy Caplan, will promise you a self referral bonus of $500 and an additionnal bonus of $1000 to start prior to Dec 31,2002. I hired on with SDG&E on 11/4/02 and the lady just told me I dont get anything. Spread the word. I hope no one else gets f*#@&"d

hello i was just wondering if anyone knew of any work in northern idaho. I would like to move my family up there but not sure about work. please email me at rodyv@hotmail.com