A team of linemen from Habersham EMC brought home a top award from the International Lineman’s Rodeo competition.
Now in its 40th year, the rodeo showcases the skills of lineworkers from across the globe. It emphasizes safety, training, and work practices. Apprentices and journeymen compete in simulated real-world scenarios, testing their technical proficiency and problem-solving skills.
Coach Chris Chapman led HEMC team members Dillon Welborn, Tucker Dyer, and Robert Morris at the Overland Park, Kansas, competition in October. They competed in four events: hurtman rescue, pole climb, and two mystery events.
HEMC won first place in the journeyman team hurtman rescue event.
“This achievement is especially remarkable coming on the heels of Hurricane Helene, where our teams demonstrated their dedication and expertise in assisting with widespread storm cleanup efforts,” says HEMC Director of Operations Cody Thomas.
The competition offers more than awards. It’s also a great learning opportunity.
“We showcase the skills that HEMC employees use every day, and we bring back different techniques that we observe from our fellow competitors,” says Thomas. “This ensures that we continue to improve and provide our members with world-class service every day.”
HEMC’s win also highlights the local electric co-op’s commitment to safety. Habersham EMC recently marked seven years without lost-time accidents. Thomas attributes that to the “rigorous training and unwavering focus on safety that defines HEMC.”
