Electric lineworkers from across the state converged on the 25th Annual Florida Lineman Competition Saturday in Tallahassee.
The Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) event drew workers from 13 electrical utilities who took part in the event. That included 156 lineworkers — 72 apprentices and 84 journeymen — across 26 teams that were assessed by 58 judges.
Some of the competition involved demonstrations such as replacing fuses, changing fiberglass links, transferring equipment from pole to pole and simulated rescues. Competitors earned points for completing the tasks as quickly as possible and lost points if safety standards and proper work practices were not followed.
There were two different categories of competitors. Journeyman teams, which included at least one lineworker who has been in the industry for five years or more, were made up of three lineworkers. Apprentices, or lineworkers in training, competed individually.
“This year marked the 25th anniversary of the Florida Lineman Competition and we were thrilled to bring together so many representatives from our public power communities to take part in this milestone event. Yesterday’s winners embodied the exceptional skill, precision and professionalism that define linework,” said Amy Zubaly, FMEA Executive Director. “Thank you to all who participated in the competition and a huge congratulations to our winners.”
The host city of Tallahassee fared well and produced the top winners in the FMEA competition. The 2026 Overall Journeyman Team Winners’ Cup was won by Lance Rivenbark, Jordan Reddick and Jason Smith of the city of Tallahassee. Winning the Overall Apprentice Award was Dalton Gowdy from the city of Tallahassee.
