BONNER SPRINGS, Kan. — PG&E line workers showed they belong with the best-of-the-best at the 40th International Lineman’s Rodeo in Bonner Springs, Kan., on Saturday.
The rodeo drew more than 1,000 competitors from utilities in North America, all eager to demonstrate the skills of their unique and demanding trade.
Among the winners were electric line workers JP Richard, Anthony Albright and Adam Beene, who work out of PG&E’s Grass Valley center. Richard is a crew leader, Albright a linework and Beene a supervisor.
Their team placed 3rd overall among investor-owned utilities and fifth place overall among all competitors.
The competitors are divided into two main categories, with journey-level line workers competing in three-person teams and apprentices competing as individuals.
In each category, competitors participate in events that test skills line workers practice in their day-to-day jobs, including a pole climb, the hurt-worker rescue (simulating the rescue of an injured worker atop a utility pole) as well as mystery events.
Judges monitor the events and deduct points for mistakes, such as safety violations. At the end of the day, the competitors are ranked by their performance, with prizes going to the top competitors.
For competitors, the rodeo practice, performance and logistics are in addition to their day jobs at home.
Together with IBEW 1245 PG&E sponsored six journeyman teams and six apprentices. They were joined by coworkers and family members who volunteered to support the event as judges, coaches, organizers and audience members.
For family and friends, it’s also a chance to see line work in a safe, family-friendly environment.