OSUIT to Host Annual High Voltage Rodeo

Hands-on competition showcases essential skills for future power line workers

Apr. 3, 2026 at 4:04pm

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A highly stylized, abstract grid of brightly colored power line utility poles in a pop art silkscreen style, conceptually representing the technical expertise and hands-on challenges faced by future lineworkers.The annual High Voltage Rodeo showcases the essential skills and specialized training of the next generation of power line workers.Henryetta Today

Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) will host its annual High Voltage Rodeo this Saturday, April 4, bringing together around 50 students from OSUIT's High Voltage Program and OSU-OKC's Line Technician Program. This friendly, hands-on competition allows the next generation of lineworkers to demonstrate the critical skills needed to safely maintain power poles and restore electricity.

Why it matters

The High Voltage Rodeo provides a unique public showcase for the essential work of power line technicians, who play a vital role in keeping the lights on for communities. The event offers spectators a rare chance to see these specialized skills in action through real-world challenges like speed climbing, pole-top rescue, and cross-arm changeouts.

The details

Held in OSUIT's Pole Yard training facility, the High Voltage Rodeo features head-to-head competitions that test the students' proficiency in the technical and safety aspects of power line maintenance. Spectators can observe the students navigating these hands-on tasks that are crucial for restoring power after outages and keeping the electrical grid functioning.

  • The High Voltage Rodeo will take place on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
  • The event is weather-dependent and may be postponed for safety if there is inclement weather.

The players

OSUIT

Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, a public university that offers career-focused technical education programs.

OSU-OKC

Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, a public university that offers associate's degree and certificate programs, including a Line Technician Program.

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The takeaway

The High Voltage Rodeo showcases the specialized skills and training required to maintain the power grid, highlighting the important role these future lineworkers will play in keeping the lights on for their communities.