At Mountain View Electric Association, keeping the lights on takes more than poles, wires, and equipment. It takes people — dedicated professionals who are willing to answer the call when our members need them most.
As MVEA’s CEO, I have the unique privilege of seeing firsthand what it takes to keep the lights on for our members. It’s hard to believe, but behind every light switch in our service territory is a complex system of more than 6,500 miles of energized line spanning across 5,000 square miles. Our electric distribution system includes more than 95,000 poles, 25 substations, and thousands of pieces of equipment that must be inspected, maintained, and upgraded to operate safely and reliably. Maintaining infrastructure on this scale requires technical expertise, dedication, and a deep commitment to service.
I have worked in the electric cooperative industry for more than 25 years and can proudly share that MVEA is blessed to have an experienced team of professionals keeping our system running and our communities powered through all types of weather. Their work requires years of training, technical expertise, and a deep commitment to safety. Lineworkers are often the first to respond and the last to leave, working behind the scenes so our members can go about their daily lives.
What makes lineworkers especially remarkable is that they are not just restoring power to a system — they are restoring comfort, security, and normalcy to the lives of their neighbors. They understand that electricity powers far more than lights. It keeps homes warm, supports local businesses, powers schools and farms, and ensures emergency services can respond when they are needed most.
Some may find this surprising, but even with modern technology, linework remains one of the most demanding and dangerous professions in the country, with crews working around high voltage electricity, at significant heights, and in unpredictable conditions. That is why safety is always our top priority at MVEA. I am incredibly proud to share that our team recently celebrated three years without a lost time accident, a milestone made possible by a strong culture where employees look out for one another and take pride in doing the job the right way. From dispatch operators who coordinate crews to engineers who help map the way to power restoration, when the lights go out, our teams step in.
Please join us as we celebrate Colorado Lineworker Appreciation Day on April 18 to recognize the men and women who go above and beyond to keep the lights on 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visit the webpage to send a thank you note to help us honor MVEA’s dedicated lineworkers.
Ruth Marks is the CEO of Mountain View Electric Association, a electric distribution cooperative based in Falcon, Colorado.
