Safe work takes practice, preparation and teamwork. Jackson EMC linemen put those skills to the test at the 2026 International Lineman’s Rodeo recently, building on the training they use in their everyday work. The participants earned their spots based on their performance at the Georgia Lineman’s Rodeo which was held in May.
Eight apprentices and three journeyman teams represented Jackson EMC at the 42nd annual international competition in Bonner Springs, Kansas. The event brought together 285 teams and more than 390 apprentices to complete tasks similar to those they may perform on the job.
The Jackson EMC linemen earned several honors:
· Kaleb Chapman, Justin Roper and Jeff Sutton, all of Oakwood, finished third in the team insulator changeout event.
· Brandon Sanders, Easton Tuggle and Cody Watson, all of Neese, finished third in the team hurtman rescue, which simulates the critical response needed to safely rescue an injured lineman from atop a utility pole.
· Sam Tompkins of Oakwood finished fifth in the apprentice bad transformer lead event.