Linemen from the Carroll Electric Membership Cooperative competed at the 36th Annual International Lineman’s Rodeo Saturday, Oct. 19, at the National Agriculture Center & Hall of Fame in Bonner Springs, Kansas.
Since 2001, Carroll EMC linemen have represented the cooperative and other EMC’s across the state of Georgia at the international level. Journeyman teams and apprentices from around the world demonstrated their expert line skills and knowledge in a number of competitive events.
A total of 248 journeyman teams and 341 apprentices competed for the top spots. Carroll EMC’s Zeke Ricks, Austin Davis and John Puckett finished eighth out of 38 EMC journeyman teams and 25th overall. Vice President of Operations and former journeyman, Tommy Cook, partnered with Don Ritchey, from Snapping Shoals EMC, and Jack Rider, from Georgia EMC, to rank third in the Journeyman Senior Division.
The rodeo consists of events that test linemen on traditional tasks not frequently performed. Teams of journeyman completed a series of four events including the Hurtman Rescue, Pole Climb, Transformer Changeout and Jumper Replacement. In addition to taking a written exam, apprentice linemen participated in the Hurtman Rescue, Pole Climb, Armor Rod Replacement and Rope Splice.
“The International Lineman’s Rodeo is more than a competition,” said Cook. “The rodeo promotes team building and problem-solving through the challenges of adversities. Each year, our linemen are more efficient at linework than they were upon entering.”
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. This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 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.
