Thirty utility locators recently tested their skills in the 2^nd Annual Midwest Regional Utility Locate Rodeo presented by JULIE, Inc.  The successful event was held at the Planet Underground in Manteno, Illinois.

“This high profile event provided an excellent opportunity for utility locators to showcase their skills in an essential area that is often overlooked in the construction industry,” said Mark A. Frost, executive director at JULIE, Inc. “This utility locate rodeo would not have been possible without the support of our JULIE Board and staff, participants, volunteers and sponsors.”

JULIE, Inc. receives approximately 1.2 million locate requests per year.  Each request generates an average of 6.5 messages to member companies that require a locate technician to respond.  These individuals are in the field every day, meeting production demands while maintaining high standards, and dealing daily with overcrowded utility easements.  Most impressively, their primary tool is the complicated art of utility locating.  The locating technician plays a crucial part in safety, because when their job is performed with excellence, it can save lives, safeguard a community's vital utility infrastructure and improve public security.