As hurricane season approaches, Houstonians are reminded just how important skilled electrical workers are to keeping homes, businesses, hospitals, and entire communities powered. On Wednesday, May 27, some of the region’s most promising future electricians put their training to the test during the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Texas Gulf Coast Wire-Off Competition and Trade Show in South Houston.

There’s another rodeo in Houston—but you won’t find a bull or a horse in sight. Instead, you’ll find men and women climbing poles, racing against the clock, and working together in high-stakes challenges designed to mirror real-life emergencies. Welcome to the IBEW Local 66 Lineman’s Rodeo.