Denmark Technical College proudly announces the induction of two-time alumnus, James W. Bowden, Sr., into the 2024 International Lineman’s Museum Hall of Fame. Bowden, a trailblazing leader in the energy industry, is the first African American to receive this prestigious honor, marking a significant milestone for both the industry and his community.
“James Bowden has not only achieved exceptional professional milestones but has made a profound impact on the energy industry as a whole. His leadership, vision and commitment to diversity are felt nowhere more than here at Denmark Tech, where he continues to invest his time and resources. We are proud to celebrate his historic induction into the Hall of Fame and even prouder to call him one of our own,” said Willie L. Todd Jr., Ph.D., president and CEO of Denmark Technical College.
His remarkable, barrier-breaking 42-year career with Duke Energy, where he was the first African American to serve in the roles of superintendent, general manager and senior vice president, has solidified his legacy as an advocate for diversity in the lineworker profession. Bowden’s career began in 1972 as a third-generation worker for Duke Energy. Throughout his tenure, he not only excelled professionally, but became a champion for minorities, striving to create a more inclusive and accessible energy industry.
Bowden’s dedication to opening doors for others sets him apart as a visionary leader, committed to ensuring that future generations, particularly those from underrepresented communities, could pursue careers in the lineworker field.
“I am deeply honored to be inducted into the International Lineman’s Museum Hall of Fame, and to be the first African American to receive this distinction makes it all the more meaningful. However, I would be remiss if I did not express my sincerest appreciation to Andy Price and the International Lineman’s Hall of Fame Induction Committee for selecting me for this honor, an honor that my family and I will cherish throughout our lives. My goal has always been to create opportunities for others, just as opportunities were created for me. It is gratifying to know that the work I’ve done has paved the way for future energy leaders. I remain committed to supporting the next generation of lineworkers,” said Bowden.
Bowden’s influence extends far beyond Duke Energy, serving as a Denmark Technical College (DTC) Area Commissioner and as the president of the DTC National Alumni Association. As the namesake of the James W. Bowden, Sr. Lineworker Range at Denmark Technical College, he has been instrumental in shaping the college’s lineworker training program, now in its seventh cohort, giving back to the institution that launched his career. His dedication to education and workforce development underscores his lifelong belief in the power of opportunity and mentorship.
“It was an honor to induct James Bowden as the first African American into the Lineman Hall of Fame. He was not only the first African American inductee, he was also our first African American nominee. Mr. Bowden is a dedicated pioneer to give minorities better access and chances to join the linework industry and we are very proud and awed by his work. We hope his work and his induction pave the way for many more African Americans and other minorities in the line industry and cannot wait to see what the future holds,” said Andy Price, founder and Chairman of the Board for the International Lineman’s Museum and Hall of Fame
“James Bowden’s commitment to education reflects his roots and inspires the next generation of lineworkers. His leadership and vision are vital for the DTC community and provide a valuable example for students as they pursue careers in the energy industry. I can think of no one more deserving of this honor,” added Kevin Whitt, chairman of the Denmark Technical College Area Commission.
Bowden’s induction into the International Lineman’s Museum Hall of Fame recognizes not just an illustrious career, but a life dedicated to empowering others. His advocacy for minorities and his efforts to diversify the lineworker profession continues to transform the industry, ensuring that opportunities for success are available to all.
