Cape Girardeau Ameren lineworkers to compete in international competition

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — Ameren lineworkers from Missouri and Illinois are preparing to compete against utility workers from around the world at the 42nd International Lineman’s Rodeo in Overland Park, Kansas.

The competition, scheduled for Oct. 14-17, brings together lineworkers and apprentices to demonstrate their technical skills, teamwork and safety practices.

Ameren Missouri will send four journeyman teams, 10 apprentices and nine competition officials and committee members.

Among those competing are three lineworkers from Ameren’s Cape Girardeau Operating Center: Kolter McBride, Brendan Wilkens and Joshua Jones.

Ameren Illinois will send five journeyman teams, four apprentices and six competition officials and committee members. Participants include workers from Belleville, Marion, Centralia, Decatur and other operating centers across the state.

The competition, often called the “Lineman Olympics,” features events designed to simulate real-world situations utility workers face on the job.

Events include the Hurtman Rescue, which tests a worker’s ability to rescue an injured colleague from a utility pole, and the Pole Climb, a timed event that evaluates climbing techniques and safety procedures.

Competitors will also participate in two mystery events that simulate unexpected situations in the field. Apprentices must complete a written examination in addition to the hands-on challenges.

Participants are evaluated on safety, job knowledge, work practices and overall performance.

“The work our lineworkers and apprentices perform is essential to delivering safe and reliable energy to our customers,” said Landy Wince, senior director of division operations at Ameren Missouri. “This event highlights the professionalism, training and dedication that define their craft and allows them to showcase those skills on an international stage.”

Jason Klein, vice president of electric operations at Ameren Illinois, said the competition also gives workers an opportunity to learn from others in the industry.

“The Lineman’s Rodeo is a chance for our lineworkers and apprentices to showcase the skills they use every day to keep the lights on for our customers,” Klein said.

The event also allows families to see firsthand the skills and safety practices lineworkers use in their daily work.