Carrollton, GA — Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative’s linemen took top spots in the 2017 Georgia Lineman’s Rodeo held Saturday, May 6, at the National FFA Organization Camp John Hope in Fort Valley.
The rodeo brings linemen from across the state together to compete in events based on traditional lineman tasks. Founded to recognize the professional line of work, the rodeo demonstrated the safety, skill and education of electric linemen.
Carroll EMC apprentices Zeke Ricks, Dylan England and Jacob Moore competed in the hurt man rescue, switch relocation, transformer relocation and fuse link replacement as well as the written test. Out of a possible 500 points, Moore scored 488, Ricks scored 483 and England scored 479. Their coach was Carroll EMC Journeyman Russell Williams. Also, participating as judges for other teams were Carroll EMC Journeymen David Baskin, Jeff Harper, Adam Dalton and Jeff Harper.
“These guys are directly responsible for getting the lights back on,” says Tommy Cook, Carroll EMC construction manager. “Competition allows them to test and demonstrate their skillsets, which have taken years to develop, in a safe and controlled environment. They have the hardest job in the business and work in some of the toughest conditions imaginable. Whether it’s rain, hail, tornadoes, sleet or snow, these guys respond to the call for help when needed.”
Organized by the Georgia Lineman’s Rodeo Association, this annual event has become popular with utilities and the public, since the competition gives line crews an opportunity to showcase the skills that are necessary and essential to restore power in the electric utility business.
Carroll EMC is a Member-owned cooperative providing electricity to approximately 50,000 homes and businesses. The co-op serves Members in Carroll, Haralson, Heard, Paulding, Polk and Troup counties. For more information visit the cooperative’s website at carrollemc.com or follow Carroll EMC on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram and LinkedIn. Carroll EMC: Community Built. Community Builder.
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