HEMC Linemen Win Big at International Lineman’s Rodeo
Habersham EMC (HEMC) linemen traveled to the International Lineman’s Rodeo competition in October held in Overland Park, Kansas.
Now in its 40th year, the Lineman’s Rodeo showcases the exceptional abilities of lineworkers while emphasizing safety, training, and work practices. Apprentices and journeymen participate in various challenges that simulate real-world scenarios, demonstrating their technical proficiency and problem-solving skills under pressure.
EMC journeymen teams were tested in four events: hurtman rescue, pole climb and two mystery events.
The journeyman team from HEMC, led by Coach Chris Chapman, included Dillon Welborn, Tucker Dyer and Robert Morris.
“During the competition, they must complete the scenarios with speed, accuracy and safety” says Cody Thomas, HEMC Director of Operations. “This is the same focus on training, practice, and safety measures that our employees commit to every day.”
The journeyman lineman team won first place in the journeyman team hurtman rescue event.
“The competitors spent time practicing, but it is their everyday jobs that prepare them for the competition,” says Thomas. “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. We supported many of our fellow competitors just as they supported us, truly highlighting the spirit of cooperation in our industry.”
“We showcase the skills that HEMC employees use every day, and we bring back different techniques that we observe from our fellow competitors. This ensures that we continue to improve and provide our members with world-class service every day. Our commitment to safety shines through in this performance, marking seven years without lost-time accidents. It’s a testament to the rigorous training and unwavering focus on safety that defines HEMC.”
