Duke Energy lineworkers to compete in international rodeo
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Fifteen Midwest Duke Energy lineworkers are preparing to show off their skills in the International Lineman’s Rodeo this fall.
The lineworkers advanced from competition at Duke Energy’s Midwest Lineman’s Rodeo in Plainfield last weekend.
The rodeo events allow lineworkers to demonstrate daily skills they use to restore power to customers. For biting Midwest winters to humid summer heat, their work often comes under extreme weather conditions.
In the rodeo, lineworkers are scored on their performance in equipment repair, pole climbing and rescues of hurt lineworkers. The competitors are graded for their speed, agility and technique, as well as the safety procedures they follow.
“Our crews’ agility and depth of knowledge continue to impress me each day, but I’m even prouder of their dedication to keeping the lights on for millions of customers who depend on them,” Duke Energy Senior Vice President Scott Batson said in a news release. “Safety, skills and efficiency are integral in the job of a lineworker — and Duke Energy truly has some of the best talent in the world.”
Regional winners will join Duke Energy lineworkers advancing from rodeos in Florida and the Carolinas.
The international competition, continuing a 20-year-tradition, will be Oct. 14 in Bonner Springs, Kansas.
Indiana lineworkers advancing in the apprentice competition include:
- First place: Oliver Huhta of Princeton, Ind.
- Second place: Logan Pollei of Rochester, Ind.
- Third place: Nick Gearhart of Carmel, Ind.
- Fourth place: Calvin Fettig of Noblesville, Ind.
- Fifth place: Tyler Adrian of Carmel, Ind.
- Sixth place: Riley Hilty of Huntington, Ind.
Indiana lineworkers advancing in the journeyman teams category include:
- First place: TJ Lewis of Aurora, Ind.; Bret Lewis of Madison, Ind.; and Nick Meyer of Madison, Ind.
- Second place: Andrew Hall of Carmel, Ind.; Jason Washburn of Noblesville, Ind.; and Cody Kennedy of Noblesville, Ind.
- Third place: Travis Vidal of Columbus, Ind.; Nick Minnich of Columbus, Ind.; and John Menefee of Columbus, Ind.