LINDEN -- Tipmont REMC lineman Ernie Waltz is marking 50 years on the job for the electric utility.

He joined Tipmont in 1960 as a ground man truck driver, then became a lineman. His work has included working on an underground line crew and serving as a foreman. Today, he operates a single-man service truck, responding to calls and requests.

“Besides his excellent customer service and skills as a lineman, Ernie is a walking history book, a living legend at Tipmont,” said Tim McCarthy, chief executive officer. “Sure, he’s eligible for retirement, but he loves his work, enjoys working with Tipmont’s members, and provides first-rate service. We’re pleased he’s not yet turning in his hooks or gloves.”

Waltz spent the first seven years of his Tipmont career working from its Linden , Ind. , headquarters, then transferred to the Battle Ground office, where he continues working today.

In his 50 years, he’s worked many a winter storm, responded to hundreds of off-hours emergency calls and seen the electric cooperative’s size more than double, to some 2,200 miles of line.

The two most significant changes he’s seen are in advanced equipment, such as bucket trucks, and technology. “When I first started, you had to climb everything. The equipment we have today makes the work a lot different,” he said. “And the new technology and equipment in substations takes advanced schooling.”

Waltz has not set a retirement date. “You keep your mind sharp by working,” he said. “And I like to stay active.”

Founded in 1939 and headquartered in Linden , Tipmont REMC is a member-owned cooperative providing electric service to some 24,500 members, primarily in Clinton , Fountain, Montgomery and Tippecanoe counties. It also offers long-distance calling plans and, through its partial ownership of OneTouch Security Plus, home and business security systems.

Tipmont is a Touchstone Energy Cooperative, a national alliance of local, consumer-owned electric cooperatives providing high standards of service and dedicated to serving members with integrity, accountability, innovation and commitment to community.