Drew Dixon
Being a lineman for electrical service can be one of the most unheralded jobs these days, yet it’s a key position for keeping electricity flowing into homes that most people take for granted.
But the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) isn’t going to let the top linemen in the state be forgotten. FMEA held its annual Florida Lineman Competition on Saturday in Ocala. The event brings lineworkers from throughout the state and even some from outside Florida to showcase their skills and experience in the profession of lineworking.
The line working professionals faced various challenges that turned into competitions, such as changing cables, disconnecting power lines, replacing equipment and insulators, and engaging in simulated rescue scenarios. Competitors earned points by successfully completing these scenarios as quickly as possible. Points were deducted for any unmet safety standards or overlooked procedures.
Teams were composed of journeymen professionals. Each squad included at least one lineworker with more than five years of industry experience, and each team had a minimum of three lineworkers. Less experienced professionals, such as trainees and apprentices, competed in separate competitions.
A team from Jacksonville took home the 2025 Overall Journeyman Team Winners Cup. The team consisted of workers from JEA, Jacksonville’s publicly held utility service, including David Hicken, Caleb Macabitas, and Jonathan Cody Stokes.
Meanwhile, the Overall Apprentice Award also went to a JEA worker, with Ryan Kornegay receiving that honor.
“A big congratulations to all the winners, who have demonstrated exceptional expertise and skills while also showing their unwavering commitment to safety on the job and delivering the highest quality service to their communities,” said Amy Zubaly, FMEA executive director.
Eighteen utility organizations had employees participating in the Florida Lineman Competition, with 156 lineworkers competing. Some 24 teams were formed, and 64 judges from across the state oversaw and provided scores during the contests.
