Transitioning from fieldwork to management positions.

Stepping into a management role.

     Making the move from the field to a supervisory or management position is one of the biggest and most rewarding transitions in a lineman’s career. You’ve already proven yourself in the field through skill, safety, and hard work, but leadership requires a new mindset. Shifting from “doing the work” to “leading the work” means learning to see the bigger picture, make decisions for teams, and balance productivity with people. It’s a major change, and preparing for it takes time and intention.
    The transition from lineman to supervisor doesn’t come without its challenges. Many new leaders struggle at first to let go of the tools and take on the responsibility of guiding others. You’ll need to develop new skills in communication, planning, and coaching, all while maintaining respect and credibility with your peers who may now be your direct reports. Managing former coworkers can be difficult; it requires clear boundaries, professionalism, and fairness.
    Another common challenge is learning to think strategically rather than tactically. As a lineman, your focus is on getting the job done safely and efficiently. As a supervisor or manager, your focus expands to include scheduling, budgets, training, and organizational goals. This shift in perspective can be demanding, but it’s also what makes leadership rewarding, you’re no longer just part of the crew; you’re shaping how the crew succeeds.
    The best preparation for moving into management starts long before the job posting appears. Begin by seeking opportunities to lead informally, mentoring apprentices, running safety meetings, or helping plan jobs. Developing strong communication and organizational skills will set you apart as someone ready for more responsibility.
    It’s also valuable to gain a deeper understanding of how your organization operates beyond the field. Learn about scheduling, logistics, outage management, and how decisions are made at higher levels. Ask your supervisor for feedback on your leadership potential and take part in any internal development or mentorship programs that your company offers.
    Outside of work, consider investing in professional growth through leadership courses, management workshops, or certifications that align with your goals. The ability to manage people, budgets, and performance is something that can be learned and sharpened with time and practice.
    When you’re ready to apply for supervisory or management roles, you’ll need to stand out as a complete professional. A well-crafted resume, CV, and cover letter are essential. Your resume should highlight leadership experience, safety performance, and contributions that improved your crew or department. A detailed CV can showcase training, certifications, and achievements that demonstrate your readiness to lead.
    A strong vision statement is another powerful tool. It communicates not just what you’ve done, but where you want to go, how you plan to add value to your organization, lead with integrity, and support team growth.
    Finally, success in the interview process comes down to preparation and confidence. You should be able to clearly express your leadership philosophy, give examples of how you’ve handled challenges in the field, and describe how you’d approach managing a team. Practice answering questions about safety culture, conflict resolution, and decision-making.
    Remember, interviewers are looking for more than technical knowledge, they’re looking for someone who can inspire trust, maintain safety, and represent the company’s values. Arrive prepared with questions of your own about leadership expectations, team dynamics, and company goals.
    Transitioning from lineman to leader takes time, effort, and self-awareness. But with preparation, humility, and a professional approach, it’s absolutely achievable. By investing in your leadership skills, building a polished professional portfolio, and preparing thoroughly for the interview process, you’ll be ready to step confidently into the next phase of your career, one where you don’t just power the grid, you lead the people who keep it running.