First Female Trimmer to Receive Journey Status for IBEW LOCAL 53

Amanda Pratt is a Journeyman tree trimmer out of IBEW Local 53 working on the property of City Utilities of Springfield, Missouri. Amanda recently topped out as journeyman trimmer and is the first female trimmer to receive the journey trimmer status out of Local 53. Amanda has worked in the line clearance industry since March of 2019 when she heard about it from her fiancé and became interested in the trade. “

I remember thinking it sounded like the coolest job I had ever heard of, climbing trees with a chainsaw around energized power lines. I had to try it!” When asked why she enjoyed the work, Amanda replied, “I am not sure why, I just do. Accomplishing something I did not think I could do is a great feeling! Climbing high above the powerlines and removing huge trees off the lines to maintain and restore the power just really gets me going.” Amanda has advanced through her training and has recently started running crews for the contractor.

She has been recognized for the excellent work she has done in the male dominated industry. “We look forward to watching her advance throughout her career. Amanda is very active in the union, she has been involved with contract negotiations and will also be active in developing the first women’s committee here at Local 53.” said Mike Callahan, Local 53 Business Representative. Amanda is no doubt an inspiration to her peers and to women interested in joining the union trades. Best of luck to Amanda as she continues her career with Local 53. I have a feeling this is not the last time we will be writing about her.