Powerline Rodeo in Chatham showcases high-risk skills, strong job demand

Students of St. Clair’s powerline technician program showcase their skills at the annual Powerline Rodeo in Chatham. CTV Windsor’s Chris Campbell checks it out.

Students in the powerline technician program at St. Clair College put their training to the test Thursday during a skills competition designed to simulate the demands of one of the province’s most hazardous trades.

The annual ‘Powerline Rodeo,’ held at the college’s National Powerline Training Centre, featured a series of challenges aimed at showcasing technical ability, speed and safety awareness — all key components of the job.

For second-year student Emily Mailloux, the experience can be intimidating at first.

“When you first start out, it’s kind of like, ‘Oh my goodness, I’m about to poop my pants,’” she said. “But once you get into it, you’re just kind of like, ‘What am I here to do?’ and focus on that.”

Students competed in events designed to mirror real-world tasks, including climbing and rescue scenarios, while working under pressure.

“At the top of the pole? You don’t want to fall obviously,” said second-year student Ty Mills, adding that the training is designed to be as realistic as possible.

“I think they try to make it as real as possible here. So that’s why we’re doing all these events,” he added. “And we learn so much here at St. Clair.”

Instructors say the competition highlights both the physical and mental demands of the trade, where safety is critical.

“Unfortunately, the trade can be very dangerous. We’re taught to do very dangerous things very safely,” said instructor David Dwyer.

The college says it trains about 175 students in the program and continues to see strong interest from applicants.

“The demand is huge. The program is constantly overbooked,” Dwyer said, noting students must ensure their applications are submitted on time.

Demand extends beyond the classroom, with industry employers actively seeking new workers to replace a retiring workforce.

“There’s a lot of older guys that are retiring, so they need young apprentices like us to come and step up and take the job,” Mills said.

The event also drew industry representatives, giving students an opportunity to connect with potential employers and showcase their skills.

“I last year was getting recruited… now it’s more on the outside looking in,” said Dillon Thurlow, a graduate of the program who now works in recruitment. “I get to do some of the recruiting this year, which is very exciting.”

Organizers say the rodeo serves as both a test of skill and a stepping stone into a career that plays a critical role in keeping communities powered.

“If something goes wrong out there in real life? Again, our training will provide the safety we need,” Dwyer told CTV News. “We look out for one another; a lineman rescues a lineman. So, me being aware of how to get you down from a high situation. Our first aid, CPR, these are crucial, crucial things to be aware of in knowing how to perform these tasks properly.”