Norse FR Sponsors First All-Women Lineman Team at the International Lineman’s Rodeo

Flame-resistant workwear innovator Norse FR made history this fall by sponsoring the first all-women lineman team to compete at the sector’s marque International Lineman’s Rodeo in Bonner Springs, Kansas.

The team, known as the “77 Valkyries”, represented IBEW Local 77 and became a standout presence at the event — not only for their performance but for what they symbolized: progress, representation, and the changing face of the utility workforce.

“These women are rewriting the story of what strength and precision look like in this trade,” said Steve Layton, President of Norse FR, headquartered in Greenville, South Carolina. “We’re proud that Norse could support them, as believers in the power of performance, equality, and innovation in the field.”

The International Lineman’s Rodeo, held each October at the National Agricultural Center & Hall of Fame grounds in Bonner Springs, is one of the electric utility industry’s most anticipated annual events. Drawing competitors from across North America and around the world, the rodeo tests linemen on the fundamentals of the craft — climbing, rigging, rescue, and speed — all while adhering to the industry’s highest safety standards.

This year, amid the sea of seasoned professionals, the 77 Valkyries stood out as the first all-women team to take the field in full competition. Their presence, Layton said, aligns perfectly with Norse’s mission to redefine industrial workwear through technology and inclusivity.

“Norse is a family run business that goes beyond simply designing and producing flame-resistant apparel,” Layton added. “Our proprietary world class material knowledge and design creates a garment system that builds confidence and protection that allows linemen — and line-women — to perform at their peak. For Norse, supporting the Valkyries was about backing their skill, grit, and an exciting next generation of talent in this industry.”

Forged for the Brave

Norse FR, known for its cutting-edge performance fabrics and ergonomic FR designs, has quickly gained a reputation for rethinking what protective workwear can be. The brand’s garments are designed to be lightweight, breathable, and engineered for extreme conditions, blending modern materials science with traditional durability.

The 77 Valkyries’ gear reflected that ethos — purpose-built for comfort, safety, and freedom of movement. Each uniform bore the Norse FR insignia, a subtle nod to the company’s namesake: the strength and resilience of Norse mythology’s warriors.

For their competition uniforms, the Valkyries wore the Norse FR® Long Sleeve T-Shirt, a dual-hazard Cat 2 garment engineered for intense work environments. Built from 6.4-ounce Polartec® Power Dry® FR fabric, the shirt is designed for breathability, stretch, and all-day comfort — critical in the speed- and precision-based rodeo events.

With an ARC Rating of ATPV 8.6, UL Classified® certification to NFPA 2112-23, and industry-leading wicking and odor-resistant performance, the long-sleeve shirt represents Norse FR’s commitment to lightweight, ergonomic, field-ready safety gear that doesn’t compromise mobility or durability.

“The Valkyries name couldn’t be more fitting,” Founder Jane Layton explains. “These women embody the same courage and determination that inspired our brand. Watching them compete, it’s clear that the future of this industry is in good hands — and good gear.”

As utilities face evolving workforce challenges — from recruitment to retention — the 77 Valkyries’ story marks a powerful milestone. Their appearance at the Kansas rodeo signals a growing movement toward inclusion and opportunity across a traditionally male-dominated field.

Norse FR’s sponsorship of the team underscores its commitment not to safety innovation and also to supporting the people who wear its products — from lineworkers and welders to energy crews and first responders.

“The rodeo has always celebrated skill and safety,” Steve Layton concluded. “And this year, it also celebrated progress. We’re honored that Norse FR could be part of that moment.”