Hundreds of utility workers from across the country will gather in Huntsville this weekend for the Public Power Lineworkers Rodeo, a national competition showcasing the skill, speed and safety required to keep the nation’s power grid running.

Hosted by the American Public Power Association and organized locally by Huntsville Utilities, the event will take place Saturday at John Hunt Park.

Crews from publicly owned utilities across the United States will compete in timed challenges that simulate real-world scenarios, including climbing poles, repairing equipment, restoring power and rescuing lineman.

Todd Long of Huntsville Utilities said the rodeo gives the public a rare look at work that typically happens behind the scenes. 

“(It’s) a national event that features lineworkers from all across the country,” Long said. “They’ll be competing in events that simulate what they have to do in real-world power restoration.”

The competition is widely considered one of the top showcases of lineworker expertise, testing both technical ability and strict safety practices. Long hopes this event will shed light on the hard and sometimes perilous work of a lineman

“It celebrates the work that these men and women do,” Long said. “A lot of times what they do, you don’t see it.”

Linework is consistently ranked among the most dangerous professions in the country, a reality that will be recognized during opening ceremonies. A moment of silence will honor workers who have lost their lives on the job, with an estimated 15 to 20 fatalities occurring each year.

Beyond the competition, the event is designed to bring the community together. Families can expect a kids zone, food trucks and vendor booths; it’s a family friendly atmosphere throughout the competition. 

Opening ceremonies will begin at 7:30 a.m., followed by competition starting at 8 a.m. and continuing through the afternoon.

Long said the national scale of the event sets it apart from past competitions held in Huntsville.

“This is a much larger event than the regional ones we’ve hosted before,” he said. “We have utilities coming from as far away as California.”