When the stakes are high and every second counts, you want linemen who are prepared, focused and dedicated to their craft. At the 2025 International Lineman’s Rodeo, Jackson EMC linemen demonstrated those qualities on a national stage – proving the same skills and teamwork they bring to serving members every day.
Jackson EMC sent 6 apprentices and 3 journeyman lineman teams to compete at the 41st annual International Lineman’s Rodeo in Bonner Springs, Kansas. They were among more than 1,200 participants demonstrating the precision, safety and skill it takes to deliver reliable power every day. Apprentices compete as individuals and journeymen compete in teams of three.
The International Lineman’s Rodeo features the nation’s top lineworkers competing in events that simulate real-world tasks, like climbing utility poles, replacing equipment and completing repairs in timed and judged scenarios.
A team with Collin Ward, Austin Lewis and Brandon Carter, all of Neese, finished first in the hurtman rescue, a timed event simulating the critical response needed to safely rescue an injured lineman from atop a utility pole.
A team with Ben Brissey, Ben Adams and TJ Witherell, all of Jefferson, finished sixth in the cooperative division.
“These events mirror real-life situations they see in their line of work,” said Patrick McAuliff, Jackson EMC’s Jefferson district director of engineering and operations. “Our linemen train for these moments, not just for the competition, but because they know the people counting on them are their own neighbors, friends and families.”
“When you see our linemen in action at a competition like this, you’re seeing the same dedication they bring to your community every day,” said Tommy Parker, Jackson EMC’s vice president of operations. “It’s about safety, responsiveness and making sure the power our members rely on is restored as quickly as conditions and safety procedures allow.”
Jackson EMC’s participants at the International Lineman’s Rodeo earned their spots based on their performance at the Georgia Lineman’s Rodeo, held in May.
Jackson Electric Membership Corporation, the largest electric cooperative in Georgia and one of the largest in the nation, is headquartered 50 miles northeast of Atlanta in Jefferson, Ga. The cooperative serves more than 273,000 meters on 15,500 miles of energized wire. For more information, visit jacksonemc.com.
