21st Annual Public Power Lineworker Rodeo to come to Lafayette

LAFAYETTE, La (KLFY)-- Want to see how a line worker trains? Well this weekend you and your family can join line worker for the 2024 APPA Lineworkers Rodeo taking place this Saturday.

Journeyman and apprentice lineworkers nationwide will gather here at Cajun Field to compete in 2024 Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo and the best part is, it's free to watch.

Showcasing their skills and knowledge, line workers from across the country have the chance to get hands on training and compete for professional recognition in the 21st Annual Lineworers Rodeo. Heidi Tweedel with Lafayette Utilites System said this is the first time the Lineworkers Rodeo will be hosted in Lafayette in its 21-year history.

"For this year, we have 17 states that are sending competitors and that includes 136 apprentices, which are line workers who have less than four years worth of experience and in 65 journeyman teams, and that's a three-man crew and they have more than four years of experience," Tweedel said.

American Public Power Association is co-hosting the event with LUS in simulated events.

"So none of the events or live, it is just a simulation for their, like I said, their day-to-day operations back home," Tweedel said.

Aaron Haderle with Kissimmee Utility Authority said one of the main things the judge looks for in the competition is safety, speed and efficiency. Haderle said although line workers may not climb as much as they used to due to technological advancements, climbing is still incorporated in the events.

"The climbing aspect is kind of slowly going away as we're going to do underground," Haderle said. "And we've got trucks and other equipment to do it."

The rodeo is open and free to the public and will be held Saturday April 6 at Cajun Field from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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