Workers from 33 utilities across the Caribbean will showcase their skills and commitment to safety over the weekend as the Virgin Islands hosts the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation’s annual lineworkers competition for the first time.
“Hosting the 2025 Lineworkers Rodeo, Symposium and Field Safety Training is not only a historic moment for the BVI, but also a testament to our commitment to excellence in the energy sector,” said BVI Electricity Corporation General Manager Neil Smith. “Our lineworkers are the backbone of our power infrastructure, and this event underscores the importance of safety and skill development for all who work to keep the lights on across the region.”
Opening
The opening ceremony is scheduled for 8:15 a.m. tomorrow at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium at H. Lavity Stoutt Community College.
Besides cultural performances by the Heritage Dancers, the ceremony will feature speeches by Premier Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley, Communications and Works Minister Kye Rymer and Mr. Smith, according to the BVIEC.
For the rest of the day, attendees will take part in panel discussions, training sessions and other activities.
Saturday will be spent on bucket-truck and pole-top rescue training.
The rodeo will get under way on Sunday, kicking off with a march-past slated for 8:15 a.m. heading to the field behind the Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex.
An opening ceremony will follow from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., with featured speakers including officials from this territory as well as VI Water and Power Authority CEO Karl Knight. After the ceremony, competitions will be held throughout the day, leading into an awards ceremony and after party.
VI team
At the rodeo, the BVIEC’s senior team will include Team Leader Donaldson Hamet along with Edward Pollock, Shaquil Samuel, Toriano King and Lennox Matthew.
On the junior team will be Lionel Smith and Jio Vonni Croal, who secured victories in 2023 in St. Lucia and 2024 in Antigua and Barbuda.
The symposium will be themed, “Informed. Empowered. Safe.”
British Caribbean News
