On September 19, the 5th Civil Engineer Squadron (CES) Pavement and Equipment section, known as the “Dirt Boys,” hosted the annual Snow Rodeo, a spirited and practical competition designed to showcase the skill and readiness of Minot AFB’s snow removal teams ahead of the harsh winter season.

The Snow Rodeo wasn’t just a fun competition. It simulates the real-world challenges Airmen face during the long North Dakota winters, when clearing snow quickly and efficiently is vital to keeping the base operational. Crews were timed as they maneuvered snowplows and other heavy equipment through a realistic obstacle course, replicating the demanding conditions they encounter during winter storms.

“The Snow Rodeo is an educational experience,” explained MSgt Ryan Powell of the 5 CES. “It shows leaders what it’s like inside the cab, what kind of visibility we actually have, and the distractions we deal with on the road. That way, when we talk about safety concerns, like people passing us too closely, they understand where we’re coming from.”
Snow removal is more than just keeping the base clean, it’s critical to maintaining Minot’s mission: providing global strike capabilities 24/7, in any weather.

“The men and women of Minot AFB are responsible for Global Strike, anytime, anywhere, in any weather,” said Col. Jesse W. Lamarand, 5th Bomb Wing Commander. “We rely on 5 CES and our snow removal teams to ensure our aircraft can get off the ground. We can’t do it without them.”

This level of preparation is no small feat. According to Lt. Col. Khary Davis, 5 CES Commander, about 70 Airmen make up the snow and ice removal team during winter, a mix of trained operators and volunteers. “Roughly a third of our snow removal team aren’t heavy equipment operators by trade,” Davis said. “They’re engineers who volunteer because they believe in the mission. That’s a testament to the commitment of our Airmen.”

What sets the Snow Rodeo apart is the participation of base leadership. This hands-on event allowed commanders and senior leaders to step into the boots and into the cab of the operators who keep the base running through the coldest months.
“This gives us a chance to experience, even if just for an afternoon, what these guys do in the worst conditions,” said Col. James L. Schlabach, Commander of the 91st Missile Wing. “It’s fun for us, but these are the folks out there at 3 a.m., in minus-10 temperatures, with five inches already down and five more coming. They’re doing this so first responders can get out, so aircraft can launch, so the mission keeps moving.”

One of the newest additions to the team, SrA Jaden Semmler, arrived at Minot in June 2025 from RAF Lakenheath in the UK. While he has experience with winter equipment, this is his first time operating in the intense conditions of North Dakota.

“I’ve worked on some of the same equipment, mostly in preventive operations like salting and chemical prep,” Semmler said. “But I’m excited to get out there and operate the snow fleet. The biggest challenge will be visibility, remembering where the curbs and lights are under feet of snow.”

Keeping the base functional during winter isn’t just about plowing snow; it’s about enabling the larger mission and protecting the Minot AFB community. As such, safety is a top concern.

“We want residents to give our equipment space,” said Lt. Col. Davis. “You’ll see our teams out at all hours, please don’t crowd the equipment. And if you see one of our operators, thank them. They’re working through the night so you can get to work and keep the mission moving.”

Command Chief Master Sergeant Wayne Sharp, 5th Bomb Wing, emphasized the team’s importance, “We love our Warbulls. They’re critical to the mission, 24/7, 365. We count on them to keep things moving every day.”

Snow Rodeo scores are still being calculated, including the name of the member who earned top marks in speed, safety, and technical precision. The winner’s name will be released at a later time by 5 CES.

More than just a competition, the Snow Rodeo served as a reminder of the grit, professionalism, and behind-the-scenes work that enables Minot AFB to maintain its global strike mission even under the harshest conditions.

“This event is a fantastic opportunity,” added Col. Schlabach. “It helps us understand just a little bit of what these folks do, and gives us even more respect for their role in keeping this base, and our mission, moving forward.”