Electric lineworkers from across the state are getting ready to compete in the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) 18th annual Florida Lineman Competition this Friday and Saturday, March 9 and 10. Lineworkers will put their skills to the test by performing tasks they encounter in real-world scenarios. This year, the event is hosted by Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) and will be held at Osceola Heritage Park in Kissimmee.
Members of the public are encouraged to attend the competition on Saturday, March 10, which starts at 8 a.m. with an opening ceremony. Admission and parking are free. Those wishing to attend should bring a blanket or chairs for sitting. Picnic lunches and coolers are permitted. There are also concessions available onsite.
For a competition agenda, click here.
The tasks competitors encounter range from replacing cross arm beams to relocating transformers to a simulation of rescuing an injured lineman. Competitors earn points for completing the tasks as quickly as possible and lose points if safety standards and proper work practices are not met. Journeymen teams, which include at least one lineworker who has been in the industry for at least five years, are made up of three lineworkers. Apprentices, or lineworkers in training, compete individually. The competition typically draws between 150 and 200 participants.
Winners will be recognized at a banquet Saturday evening.
“After the last two hurricane seasons, there is definitely a much deeper appreciation of the work linemen do. The Florida Lineman Competition is a great opportunity for the public to see these lineworkers in action and develop a better understanding of their craft,” said Amy Zubaly, FMEA Executive Director.
Established in 2001 by the FMEA, the Florida Lineman Competition brings together public power lineworkers from across the state to demonstrate their skill and knowledge in the craft of line work. At the competition, journeyman and apprentices compete for professional recognition, attend training courses and practice essential skills in a safe environment. The competition encourages safety awareness, teamwork and networking with other utilities.
For more information on FMEA and the Florida Lineman Competition, please visit publicpower.com.
