As a seasoned professional with more than five decades of experience in the field of electrical service and lineman safety, Bruce R. Thompson is the founder and current chief executive officer of Effective Safety Products. Leveraging his expertise, he has been instrumental in developing innovative solutions for linemen.
Finding Passion at Home
With his journey beginning in Miami, Thompson knew at just age 12 he wanted to be a lineman. His passion for building things was inspired by his father, who was also a lineman and would take him to work during the summertime. During these summers, he found joy in eating lunch with different crews, who taught him how to operate the equipment. These experiences solidified his own desire to pursue a career as a lineman.
The day Thompson graduated from high school, with his dad having been out of work for two months already, the duo packed up the truck and headed to Colorado.
Professional Journey and Achievements
Before his current role at Effective Safety Products, Thompson dedicated nearly three decades to Southern California Edison, where he strengthened his skills and expertise in electrical work before retiring in 2015 to focus on his own innovations. During his tenure, he furthered his education, obtaining a general engineering Class A license as well as a Class C license in electrical work.
Thompson’s most notable achievement is his invention of the Step-Up, a patented, two-tier working platform designed and manufactured for linemen that enhances ergonomic working conditions, reduces fatigue, and minimizes injury risks. This innovative platform can be installed on poles of any size, with its unique design supporting workers on the job.
Thompson’s dedication to excellence was recognized when he was featured in Powerlineman magazine, which highlighted his many contributions to the industry.
His commitment to excellence is further emphasized through his active involvement in civic-minded organizations, including volunteering to support individuals battling substance abuse.
A Passion for Educating Others
Outside of his work, Thompson enjoys riding motorcycles and spending quality time with his children. As he plans for the future, he remains passionate about providing the Step-Up tool to every lineman working on composite, steel, and concrete poles. He is driven by a vision to ensure proper working positions for linemen across the industry. He aims to continue innovating and contributing to lineman safety, leaving a legacy of dedication, innovation, and community service.
Thompson advises others entering the field to take a basic electricity course, even if it’s online, as it will help them understand the basics. Since this was something that he struggled with, he believes that no matter how many times you’ve been told or how much you know, you should be appreciative of coworkers’ or foremen’s efforts to educate. Cutting off others stops them from helping in the future.
Through his work, mentorship, and unwavering passion, Thompson will leave a lasting legacy in his field, enabling linemen everywhere to work with improved safety, efficiency, and confidence. As his father said, “If something is worth doing, then it is worth doing right.”
