Cape Girardeau, Marion lineworkers to compete in international rodeo

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Ameren line workers from Cape Girardeau and Marion, Illinois, will compete in the 42nd International Lineman’s Rodeo, scheduled for Oct. 14-17 in Overland Park, Kansas.

Kolter McBride, Brendan Wilkens and Joshua Jones, all based at Ameren Missouri’s Cape Girardeau Operating Center, will compete as a journeyman team.

Clayton Gulley and Austin Lewis, of Ameren Illinois’ Marion Operating Center, will join Brian Courtright, of the Decatur Operating Center, on another journeyman team.

The event brings together lineworkers from around the world to compete in challenges testing technical skills, teamwork and safety practices.

Events include a simulated rescue of an injured worker from a utility pole, a timed pole climb and two mystery assignments designed to reflect unexpected situations crews encounter on the job. Competitors are evaluated on safety, job knowledge, work practices and overall performance.

“The Lineman’s Rodeo is a chance for our line workers and apprentices to showcase the skills they use every day to keep the lights on for our customers,” said Jason Klein, vice president of electric operations at Ameren Illinois.

Ameren Illinois plans to send five journeyman teams and four apprentices, while Ameren Missouri will send four journeyman teams and 10 apprentices. Apprentices also complete a written examination.

The event gives employees’ families an opportunity to see the skills line workers use in their daily work.