Ameren line workers, apprentices and judges will travel to the 40th annual International Lineman's Rodeo in Overland Park, Kansas, USA, later this week.
The event, often coined as the ‘Lineman Olympics’, will take place on Oct. 19 and offers line workers from around the world the opportunity to compete in events based on the common tasks performed by journeymen line workers and apprentices.
Ameren line workers at the ‘Lineman Olympics’
Ameren Illinois is sending 12 linemen, four apprentices and six judges and committee members to the rodeo, while Ameren Missouri is sending 12 linemen, four apprentices and 16 judges and committee members. The rodeo also provides co-workers' families the opportunity to see firsthand the skills that make these men and women vital to their everyday lives.
“The Lineman’s Rodeo is kind of like the Olympics for linemen,” said Patrick Smith, Senior Vice President of Operations and Technical Services for Ameren Illinois, adding “It’s all about competing to the best of their abilities in a safe manner. It also gives family members an up-close look at what it takes to do this type of work on an everyday basis.”
Competitors to be evaluated on speed and safety standards
Teams will compete in the Hurtman Rescue event, Pole Climb contest and two mystery events
Teams will compete in the Hurtman Rescue event, Pole Climb contest and two mystery events. Competitors will be evaluated on speed and safety standards among other criteria. Apprentices will compete in the same events in addition to a written test.
“Line workers and apprentices take great pride in their profession,” said Ryan Arnold, Vice President of Energy Delivery for Ameren Missouri.
He adds, “They work every day to provide safe and reliable power to our electric customers. This event gives them the opportunity to represent Ameren and their local communities as they compete in real-life scenarios against some of the best in the world.”
Ameren co-workers assist in hurricane relief work
Ameren Illinois and Ameren Missouri co-workers recently returned from assisting with restoration efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and stood ready to assist with Hurricane Milton, if called upon.