Thirteen HILCO Electric Cooperative linemen participated in the 23rd annual Texas Lineman’s Rodeo on July 20 at Nolte Island in Seguin. Each summer, the event draws teams from utilities across Texas to compete in a variety of events that test the skills lineworkers use every day. This year’s events included the hurt-man rescue, bell change, cutout change, skill climb and tool inspection.
Apprentice Kennedy McFarland at the three-phase transformer event.
“The Texas Lineman’s Rodeo promotes safety and teamwork,” said Thomas Cheek, vice president of operations for HILCO. “The job our linemen do to keep the lights on for our members is a dangerous one. We are proud of each of our linemen who competed this year.”
Journeymen Austin Seiler and Derek Allen participate in the journeyman crossarm changeout.
Along with the HILCO linemen who competed, four co-op employees served as judges at the rodeo, and the HILCO barbecue team won first place in the chicken category.
