App State’s New River Light and Power apprentice competes in NCAMES Lineman’s Rodeo

NRLP Lineman Apprentice Finley Hodges competes in the Lighting Arrestor Change Out event in the Lineman’s Rodeo held May 21, 2026, in Dallas, North Carolina

BOONE, N.C. — Appalachian State University’s New River Light and Power (NRLP) Lineman Apprentice Finley Hodges competed in the North Carolina Association of Municipal Electric Systems (NCAMES) 27th Annual Lineman’s Rodeo held May 21 in Dallas, North Carolina.

The annual rodeo brings together electric lineworkers and apprentices from municipal electric systems across North Carolina to demonstrate technical knowledge, safety practices and hands-on skills used in the electric utility industry.

Hodges, 22, competed in his second rodeo and earned an exceptional score on the written test portion of the competition. He also competed in three timed physical challenge events, including the Hurt Man Rescue, Lightning Arrestor Changeout and Transformer Load Switching. Hodges completed these demanding challenges without deductions despite the competitive pressure and temperatures climbing to nearly 90 degrees.

Hodges competes in the Transfer Load Switch challenge, testing his ability to transfer a transformer connection from one phase to another during the Lineman’s Rodeo Challenge

Hodges has been with NRLP for two years and was just beginning his career in linework when Hurricane Helene impacted the region. Alongside NRLP crews and visiting public power utility crews from across the state, Hodges worked day and night helping restore power to the community following the storm. He has become an integral part of the team that keeps Boone powered.

When asked why he continues to compete in the rodeo, Hodges said, “I enjoy the challenge and competition.” He elaborated, “I also enjoy networking and meeting electric utility teams from all across the state, which is a great opportunity to learn new skills and techniques as well.”

“Finley represented NRLP extremely well throughout the competition,” said Matthew Makdad, NRLP general manager. “Activities like the Lineman’s Rodeo highlight the skill, training and dedication required in the line trade, and we’re proud of the work Finley continues to do both on the job and in professional development opportunities like this one.”

Alan Byrd, NRLP’s superintendent of operations, coached Hodges through the events. “We are all proud of Finley’s performance. It’s hard to compete with teams of experienced lineworkers as a solo competitor and he really held his own.”

Hodges placed 23rd out of 45 apprentices and is already planning for the next rodeo.

To learn more about the role lineworkers play in the electric utility industry and in keeping communities connected, visit nrlp.appstate.edu/about/lineworker-appreciation.

About App State’s New River Light and Power

For over 110 years, New River Light and Power (NRLP) — a nonprofit electric utility operated by Appalachian State University — has provided reliable power to residents of Western North Carolina. The utility currently serves approximately 9,000 residential and commercial customers in and around Boone, including the university. NRLP is dedicated to expanding access to higher education, contributing annually to the university’s general scholarship fund. Additionally, the utility awards NRLP scholarships to support graduating Watauga County high school seniors pursuing an App State education, as well as those interested in pursuing a career in linework. NRLP holds the American Public Power Association’s Reliable Public Power Provider and Smart Energy Provider designations, recognizing its commitment to safety, efficiency, renewable energy and environmental stewardship. Learn more about App State’s New River Light and Power at nrlp.appstate.edu