Special by Jennifer Sourdellia
(Seguin) – Linemen across Texas work around the clock—rain or shine—to keep the power flowing to homes and businesses. Once a year, these dedicated professionals gather to showcase their skills in a spirited competition: the Texas Lineman’s Rodeo. This year, more than 150 linemen from electric cooperatives, municipal utilities, and investor-owned utilities will converge on Seguin, Texas for the 25th Annual Texas Lineman’s Rodeo, taking place Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Nolte Island Park.
Three journeymen and three apprentices from the City of Seguin’s Electric Department are preparing to represent the city at this year’s event.
The journeyman competitors include AJ Martinez, Taylor Ross and Ryan Bustamante. They will compete in the 12KV Hot Tie, Double Insulator, Downed Conductor, Pole Climband Hurt Man Rescue categories.
Apprentices JR Cruz, Tristin Morstad, and Alex Duarte will participate in the 3 Phrase Transformer Bank, Pole Climb, Hurt Man Rescue, and the Obstacle Pole event. Apprentices will also complete a written exam as part of the competition.
The Texas Lineman’s Rodeo provides a unique, family-friendly opportunity for lineworkers to demonstrate their skills in a competitive setting that closely mirrors real-world scenarios.
For many families, it’s an opportunity to witness firsthand the technical knowledge, physical demands, and safety protocols involved in the job.
“Those attending the rodeo will gain a deeper appreciation for the essential and often dangerous work electric linemen perform every day,” said Terri Lynn Ruckstuhl, Director of Utilities for the City of Seguin. “Watching these highly skilled professionals compete offers a glimpse into what it takes to keep the lights on in our community.”
Events such as the Pole Transfer, Hurt Man Rescue, and Obstacle Pole challenge competitors on their speed, precision, safety awareness, and technical knowledge. The competition also promotes camaraderie, continuing education, and networking among utilities across the state.
Becoming a certified journeyman lineman takes years of hands-on training and commitment. The rodeo offers both apprentices and journeymen a platform to showcase their hard-earned expertise in a controlled, safe, and exciting environment.
The Seguin It’s Real BBQ Team of Jimmy Herrera and Michael Sanchez will also compete in the BBQ Competition with their chicken, ribs and brisket.
The public is invited to attend the competition beginning at 6:45 a.m. on Saturday, July 18 at the GBRA – Nolte Island Recreation Area, 2220 FM 466 in Seguin.
For more information about the Texas Lineman’s Rodeo, visit https://tlra.org/rodeo.