For the past 30 years, the Georgia Lineman’s Rodeo has provided a platform for linemen across the state to showcase their skills and talent while also competing for safety awards.
This year, the Rodeo took place at Camp John Hope FCA-FCCLA Center in Fort Valley, Georgia. The competition included a variety of events, including hurtman rescue, arrestor and insulator changeout, and two mystery events.
The journeymen team from Habersham EMC brought home several awards, including first place in the hurtman rescue event. The team placed third in the journeyman known event.
Chris Chapman coached team members Dillon Welborn, Tucker Dyer, and Robert Morris. HEMC’s Tanner Wade competed in the apprentice category. He was coached by Isaac Wall.
HEMC Director of Operations Cody Thomas says the competition gives linemen a chance to demonstrate their skills and knowledge, while also learning from one another.
“The competitors spent time practicing, but it is their everyday jobs that prepare them for the competition,” said Cody Thomas, HEMC Director of Operations. “We showcase the skills that HEMC employees use every day, and we bring back different techniques that we observe from our fellow competitors.”
