Kyle Thomason | The Power to Light Up the World
/LINEMAN | SOUTHWEST ARKANSAS ELECTRIC REA
Whether installing underground electrical lines or climbing poles to repair overhead lines, the men and women who perform utility line work often find themselves working in extreme circumstances. For the past eight years, Kyle Thomason has used his problem-solving skills to install, maintain, and repair electrical lines, oftentimes after natural disasters. Being a problem-solver comes naturally to him, and we all thank Kyle for dedicating his life to this dangerous and risky job
photo by: DR. ROBIN ROGERS
Why did you decide to be a lineman?
I decided to become a lineman when I was about 14 years old. I was stacking hay with my dad’s tractor and hit a service line with the hay bale. I sat there and watched the lineman that came out to repair it, and that’s when I decided what I wanted to do for a living.
Name one thing about your profession that people might not know.
One thing people may not know about line work is that it’s not always easy and quick to get the lights back on. Sometimes depending on the amount of damage and repair needed, it may take a while to fix.
Who has helped you become the person you are today, and how did they inspire you?
My dad helped me become the person that I am today. He taught me how to be respectful and gave me the work ethic that I have now.
Tell us one thing you can’t do without on Thanksgiving Day and explain why.
One thing I can’t do without on Thanksgiving Day is my mom’s banana pudding because she makes the best banana pudding ever!
What do you love most about the Four States area?
All the good people that I know and get to meet. The Four States area is definitely my forever home.
What lessons have you learned from the pandemic?
The pandemic has shown me that we take a lot of things for granted.
How would you like for others to remember you?
I would like to be remembered as the guy that was always there for someone when they needed it ... someone honest, trustworthy, and a man of his word.
One thing we have noticed here is how friendly the people are. We have met some genuinely nice people here. I also love that there is a lot of different things to do within an hour to two hour drive, including lakes, rivers, casinos, golf courses, etc.
What lessons have you learned from the pandemic?
Freedom should never be taken for granted. More importantly, life is precious, short, fragile, and we are not guaranteed tomorrow. So enjoy life, love fiercely, and be kind!
How would you like for others to remember you?
I hope that their life was better for knowing me. I want to have a positive impact on people’s lives and to leave things better than I found them. Human nature is to always look at one’s own best interest but the world would be a better place if we used the golden rule to “treat others like we would like to be treated.” This is ultimately found in Christ.