DEC Lineworkers Compete in Gaff-n-Go Lineworker Rodeo

On May 16, DEC lineworkers competed against their peers from across the country in the 22nd annual Gaff-n-Go Rodeo in Doswell, Virginia. Before you ask, no — this event did not include barrel racing or bucking bulls. The Gaff-n-Go is all about showcasing the strength, skills and know-how required of the men and women responsible for maintaining the electrical grid on a daily basis. 

The competition is made up of events that reflect challenges crews might face in their day-to-day work. For example, the Hurtman Rescue is a popular event where lineworkers are tasked with safely retrieving a 175-pound stunt dummy that represents a fellow lineworker who has been injured while working on a utility pole. This year, DEC was represented by four apprentice lineworkers and two three-man journeyman teams. The Co-op also provided four employees to participate as judges at the event, as well as three more who competed in the Gaff-n-Grill competition on Friday, May 15. 

After a day filled with fierce competition, the Co-op is proud to announce that apprentice lineworker Christian Fletcher placed third on the apprentice written test and third in the Overall Apprentice category. Congratulations to our entire team and all of this year's competitors — we can't wait to return in 2027!