Lineworkers are ‘unsung heroes’- Hon Kye M. Rymer
Hon Rymer gave remarks this morning, April 25, 2025, at the Opening Ceremony of the Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation (CARILEC) Lineworkers Rodeo, Symposium, and Field Safety Training held at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) campus in Paraquita Bay.
This is the first time the event is being held in the Virgin Islands. This year’s theme is ‘Informed. Empowered. Safe’.
He told the lineworkers they each bring a unique skill and commitment to excellence, embodying the strength and solidarity of the region.
“As line workers, you are the unsung heroes who ensure that power flows seamlessly throughout our communities. Even in the face of adversity, your expertise, your courage, and unwavering dedication are the backbone of our energy infrastructure. Whether it’s restoring power after a storm, maintaining critical systems, or embracing new technologies, you are at the forefront of our industry’s evolution.”
Lineworkers Rodeo & Symposium
Hon Rymer encouraged the participants of this year’s Lineworkers Rodeo to embrace the competition and the learning opportunities it brings.
“This event is not just about winning, it’s about learning, it’s about growing, and it’s about supporting each other, and also building that bond.”
Meanwhile, this year’s symposium offers a platform for knowledge exchange, Hon Rymer added.
It will bring together “experts to discuss the latest developments and achievements, and advancements in the field, operations, safety regulations, and emerging technologies”.
The field safety training sessions, he continued, will provide hands-on experiences, reinforcing best practices and emergency response strategies.
“Together, these initiatives aim to elevate our standards and promote a culture of safety and excellence within the energy sector.”
According to Hon Rymer, the government recognises that a “reliable and resilient energy infrastructure is crucial for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and the well-being of our citizens”.
He encouraged participants to embrace the challenges ahead with determination and teamwork.
“Let this event inspire you to continue striving towards excellence, empower one another, and uphold the highest standard of safety and professionalism. Together, we are not just powering homes, we are powering progress.”
Award in honour of late Alfredo Carricarte Mesa
The winner of this year’s Pole Speed Climb in the Experience Category of the Lineworkers Rodeo will receive the first-ever Alfredo Trophy.
The award is in honour of the late Alfredo Carricarte Mesa, who was described as an electrical engineer, expert lineworker, and master trainer with CARILEC.
“Alfredo may no longer be with us, but his legacy will endure for a very long time. He played a pivotal role in helping us establish the CARILEC Lineworkers Programme, spearheading its customisation to better suit the unique needs of the Caribbean Utilities in 2009,” Ms Sophia L. Primus, Member Services Manager, said.
The award will be given to the lineworker who demonstrates exceptional skill and determination and commemorates Alfredo’s legacy and celebrates the dedication of those who share his passion and spirit.
14 utility companies and 8 regional and international businesses have completed registration to participate in the highly anticipated 2025 CARILEC Lineworkers Rodeo.
The event takes place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, on the grounds behind the Ralph T. O’Neal Administration Complex in Road Town, Tortola.
The BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) is looking to capture its third consecutive win in the rodeo, having won the rodeo in Saint Lucia (2023) and Antigua (2024).
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