We are still getting over the energy we felt at last weekend’s International Lineman’s Rodeo! Held October 11-14, 2017 in Bonner Springs, Kansas, the 34th annual event, expo and conference brings together lineman from around the world to compete, commiserate, and learn more about what’s happening in the industry they dedicate their lives to. The first event was held in 1984 with twelve regional teams. Now host to over 200 teams, the Rodeo has become a destination for many lineman and their families, purchasers, safety directors and vendors.
This year’s competition was fierce, and we love to see you guys puff out your chests and earn bragging rights for the skills you have perfected from many, many hours on the pole. Everyone wants to be the best, right? The support y’all receive from your co-workers, families, and peers is exciting. The atmosphere is simply electric! Check out the results from the events on the ILR website.
For all of us at J.L. Matthews, it’s important to speak to all of you living on the line. We appreciate all the feedback on our tools and gear, love answering any questions you have, and providing you with the chance to touch, feel, and experience new products in the industry. Exposure to products you haven’t previously seen or used allows you the chance to bring that information back to your purchasing agent or safety director. We’re here to make your jobs easier – save time, solve problems, and make you more comfortable are just some of the things we aim to do!
Another aspect of the Rodeo we love to see is the family involvement. We love seeing all those pink hardhats worn proudly by lineman wives and their children. Allowing you the opportunity to show your wife and kids what you do and demonstrate the tools you use is a unique opportunity presented by this type of event. The star struck look we often see on a son or daughter’s face never gets old.
One of my own personal highlights was catching up with Mr. William Wister Haines, the author of the novel Slim which was notable for its realism and on-target portrayal of working class attitudes during the Great Depression. I have a deep respect for this industry and the unsung heroes behind the light switch. Thank you to all the lineman who dedicate themselves each and every day to folks you don’t even know.
See you next year!
Danny Matthews