Duke Energy teams earned nine awards at the International Lineman’s Rodeo, held on October 18 in Bonner Springs, Kansas. The event brought together approximately 1,200 competitors from around the world to participate in job-related challenges that reflect the daily work of lineworkers.
Among Duke Energy’s recognitions, Tyler Nickols, Joshua Buckner and Tyler Manick secured third place overall in the journeyman category. Keith Griffin, Jay Tipton and Sandy Barnhill achieved first place in the journeyman seniors division. Other Duke Energy teams placed in various categories, including mystery events and investor-owned utility divisions.
The competition evaluates participants on speed, agility, technique and safety as they perform tasks similar to those required to maintain electric service and restore power after outages.
Scott Batson, executive vice president and chief power grid officer for Duke Energy, stated: “Our teammates’ commitment to excellence for our customers is evident in the work they have voluntarily put in to compete at the rodeo. Safely ensuring consistency and reliability each day is their priority and ours. Whether or not they walked the stage and won an award at the international event, we couldn’t be prouder of these teams’ hard work.”
Joshua Buckner, a journeyman lineworker from Marion, N.C., said: “Participating in the International Lineman’s Rodeo means more than just competition – it represents pride in my craft, respect for my brothers and sisters in the trade, and a deep commitment to the communities we serve daily. It’s a chance to showcase the skill, precision and teamwork that define what it means to be a lineman. Placing at the International Lineman’s Rodeo is more than just a trophy; it showcases how we as a team have sharpened our skills to respond to storms and outages in a safe and efficient manner.”
Duke Energy continues investing in workforce development as part of its broader efforts to improve grid reliability and prepare for growing demand across its service areas. The company provides electric service to 8.6 million customers across six states and operates significant energy capacity. Its ongoing projects include electric grid upgrades and increased use of cleaner generation sources such as renewables and energy storage.
For more information about Duke Energy’s operations or its recent activities, visit duke-energy.com or check updates through their social media channels.
