Today is the 10th of March, 2026, and we’re buzzing with excitement as Duke Energy lineworkers from Florida gear up for the prestigious International Lineman’s Rodeo in Bonner Springs, Kansas, this fall. This event is more than just a competition; it’s a vital opportunity for lineworkers to hone their skills, ensuring that they can maintain safe and reliable power for the communities they serve. With a focus on safety and advanced training, participants engage in complex repairs and restoration work in a controlled environment, reinforcing best practices that lead to a stronger electric grid and quicker outage restoration for customers.

Marc Arnold, senior vice president of power grid operations at Duke Energy Florida, has highlighted how essential these safety practices are in the industry. As a testament to this commitment, Tanner O’Shea, a seasoned lineworker and a 10-year rodeo competitor, expressed the honor of participating, emphasizing teamwork and safety as core values of the event.

Competition Highlights

The competition showcased remarkable talent, with awards presented in both apprentice and journeyman categories. The results were as follows:

  • Apprentice Overall Awards:
    • 1st place: Corey Sill (Ocala)
    • 2nd place: Tyler Bohlen (Seven Springs)
    • 3rd place: Jeremy Neumann (Apopka)
  • Journeyman Overall Awards:
    • 1st place: Charles McNulty, Jonathan Radomski, Noah Scarpetta (all from Dunnellon)
    • 2nd place: Eric Polous, Justin Mathes, Timothy West (Odena and Carrabelle)
    • 3rd place: Alex Guillen, Matthew Richardson, Adam Sass (all from St. Petersburg)
  • Overall Best Senior Team: Chet Braden, Ed Filor, Henry Shupe (various locations)

The event didn’t just stop at competitions; it brought together a vibrant community of about 45 Duke Energy volunteers, 75 community college students and staff, 70 judges, and 15 bucket truck operators, all dedicated to supporting these skilled lineworkers.

Duke Energy’s Commitment

Duke Energy Florida boasts an impressive energy capacity of 12,300 megawatts, serving around 2 million customers across a sprawling 13,000-square-mile area. As a part of the Fortune 150 company that serves 8.6 million customers across multiple states, Duke Energy is committed to energy transition and grid upgrades, ensuring that they not only meet current demands but also prepare for future challenges.

For more insights into the importance of this event and the skills being honed by these lineworkers, click here.

In conclusion, the Florida Lineman’s Rodeo is a shining example of how dedication to safety and skill enhancement can lead to better service for customers. As these lineworkers prepare for the upcoming international competition, they represent not only their individual skill but also the collective strength and commitment of Duke Energy to keep the lights on for millions.

Stay tuned for updates from the rodeo and support our local heroes as they showcase their skills on a national stage. For further information about the rodeo and Duke Energy’s initiatives, visit here and learn more about their efforts in enhancing grid reliability and safety standards.

For additional context on the significance of such events and the role of lineworkers in our society, check out this resource.