TEAM BVIEC WINS FIVE AWARDS AT HISTORIC 2025 CARILEC LINEWORKERS RODEO

Tortola, British Virgin Islands, April 28, 2025 — The British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) is proud to announce that Team BVIEC captured an impressive five awards at the just-concluded 2025 CARILEC Lineworkers Rodeo, hosted for the first time in the British Virgin Islands on April 27.

Competing against crews from 13 other regional utilities, BVIEC’s lineworkers showcased skill, speed, and resilience across multiple events, affirming the Territory’s strength on the regional energy stage.

In the Apprentice category, Jio Vonni Croal earned third place overall, amassing a total of 467 points in a tightly contested field. Meanwhile, Lionel Smith delivered a standout performance by finishing first in the Mystery Event: Disconnect and Reconnect Transformer, achieving a perfect score of 100 points.

In the Experienced category, veteran lineworker Edward Pollock demonstrated his seasoned expertise by placing third in the Pole Speed Climb, clocking an impressive 45.38 seconds. BVIEC’s experienced team also captured second place in the Mystery Event: HT Fuse Cross-arm, registering the fastest time but finishing with 96 points after minor deductions for infractions. Additionally, the team secured third place in the Three-Phase Earth Installation event, again clocking the fastest time of 4 minutes, 54.91 seconds and achieving 96 points.

Dr. Neil Smith, General Manager, BVIEC
“We are immensely proud of our lineworkers who not only competed at the highest level but did so on home soil with the full support of our community. Their performance demonstrated the world-class talent within BVIEC and the Virgin Islands.”

This year’s event marked a historic milestone for CARILEC and the Virgin Islands, drawing a record 14 utility teams and 8 exhibitor private companies to the Territory. Over the course of the weekend, participants engaged in technical workshops at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College and field-safety drills at the Festival Grounds, all coordinated by CARILEC’s expert technical judges and U.S.-based equipment specialists.

The successful execution of the 2025 CARILEC Rodeo was made possible by the unwavering support and leadership of the BVIEC Board of Directors, led by Chairman Mr. Sheldon Scatliffe and General Manager Dr. Neil Smith, whose vision and strategic planning laid the foundation for this landmark achievement. The tireless efforts of BVIEC’s planning committee, staff volunteers, and supporting partners ensured the seamless delivery of three packed days of activities that highlighted excellence, safety, and Caribbean camaraderie.

BVIEC also extends its heartfelt appreciation to CARILEC’s technical team, all participating utilities, and many residents who braved early morning showers to cheer on their teams, especially their hometown heroes, Team BVIEC.

The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) delivered an outstanding overall performance, capturing gold in both the Apprentice and Experienced divisions. BVIEC congratulates Team Antigua for their remarkable achievements and extends best wishes for their continued success.

About BVIEC
The British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable energy while investing in people, technology, and the Territory’s sustainable future.

About CARILEC
The Caribbean Electric Utility Services Corporation connects 33 member utilities and industry partners across the Caribbean to promote training, innovation, and collaboration within the energy sector.