Duke Energy Florida announced on Mar. 9 that its lineworkers from across the state have advanced from the regional lineman’s rodeo and will represent the company at the International Lineman’s Rodeo in Bonner Springs, Kansas, this fall.
The event highlights the importance of well-trained lineworkers for ensuring reliable power service. These competitions allow participants to practice complex repairs and restoration work in a controlled environment, reinforcing safety standards and best practices that are essential for maintaining and restoring electricity for customers.
Marc Arnold, Duke Energy Florida senior vice president of power grid operations, said, “What our lineworkers demonstrate at this rodeo is what customers depend on year-round – strong safety practices, advanced training and a relentless focus on reliability. These events reinforce the expertise that helps restore power faster, strengthen the grid and deliver dependable service when it matters most. We’re proud to recognize the dedication behind that work.”
Tanner O’Shea, a Southeast Orlando-based Duke Energy Florida lineworker and 10-year rodeo competitor, said, “Win or lose, it’s an honor to compete in the rodeo year after year. As linemen, we know we have to be quick, yet thorough, and stay focused on safety above all else in order to keep the lights on for our customers. This event encourages us to hone those skills and continue developing in our chosen craft while also bringing us closer together as a team. It’s a tradition we all love and take very seriously.”
Winners of this year’s apprentice overall awards included Corey Sill (Ocala), Tyler Bohlen (Seven Springs), and Jeremy Neumann (Apopka). The journeyman overall awards went to Charles McNulty (Dunnellon), Jonathan Radomski (Inverness), Noah Scarpetta (Dunnellon), Eric Polous (Odena), Justin Mathes (Carrabelle), Timothy West (Odena), Alex Guillen (St. Petersburg), Matthew Richardson (St. Petersburg), and Adam Sass (St. Petersburg). The overall best senior team was Chet Braden (St. Petersburg), Ed Filor (Inverness), and Henry Shupe (Seven Springs).
The 2026 Florida Lineman’s Rodeo was supported by company staff as well as community volunteers including approximately 45 Duke Energy volunteers, 75 volunteer students and staff from five community colleges, 70 judges, and 15 bucket truck operators.
Duke Energy Florida supplies electricity to two million customers across a 13,000-square-mile area in Florida with an energy capacity of 12,300 megawatts.
