Playing it Safe

by Bonnie Biocchi, Executive Director

                                                

I often talk about the value of our training and the many investments we are making in our programming and education. As you know, we have invested in additional programming, technology, and resources while adding new training staff to our roster. There is no doubt that placing Sarah Braese into the role of Director of Education and Programs will pay dividends for years and we are thankful for the positive changes she has made to our programming. And a special thanks to Colleen for all the work she does to keep the training running behind the scenes.   We certainly feel like we are on the right track!

Last week I received the following letter from Tom Orlowski who is retiring from Hingham after more than 33 years of service. (Congratulations Tom!) In the letter, he highlights Steve Socoby service to NEPPA . I share it with you to brighten your day as it did mine.  

“And I wanted you to know Steve, you are admired and respected by those of us in the Industry. You leave nothing on the table when it comes to your effort to put together outstanding programs for all of us to learn from. I have been attending your GF Roundtable since 2013 and I often time hear frustration in your voice. Your passion for what’s right comes from your heart, no question. At the end of the day you want to make a difference. And I want you to know, you do in a very positive way. I was the first Hingham Light Lineman to graduate from the Apprentice Program around 1992. The Apprentice Program has come a long way since then. I have always argued that an Apprentice taught the way of its utility, rather than a seasoned lineman that had habits you struggled to work around. It would be my first choice. I would rather work with clay rather than stone any day. So, keep up your fight. Know that you are making a difference. And it is appreciated.”

In addition to this being one of the nicest testimonies I’ve ever read, this letter underscored my belief that NEPPA has some of the best trainers in the industry. There is no doubt that Steve Socoby loves training, loves his students and loves NEPPA. It shows in everything he does. And he is not alone. All of our trainers take their jobs seriously. Thanks to our training team, hundreds of students have come through our doors and gone on to lead fulfilling careers while providing well for their families. Our technical training gives our Lineworkers the background and knowledge they will need to keep the lights on, and our safety training ensures that they are able to return to their families each night.

Recently, I spoke with a former public power lineworker who was seriously injured on the job. In fact, his heart stopped twice after being electrocuted. He credits the safety training of his colleagues with saving his life. So, it is no small matter what we do here. It is paramount to what we do.

I want to thank those of you who are General Managers and General Foremen for taking the safety of your workforce seriously and investing in their futures. By sharing this letter, I hope you will remember the good work that NEPPA’s trainers are doing. And when you see Steve, Linda, Bill, Pete, Lou, Tom, Dan, Dennis and Tim please take a moment to thank them for their enthusiasm and commitment. I certainly applaud their dedication - it truly does make all the difference in the world.