Long hours. Sleepless nights. Unpredictable schedules. It’s all part of the job for Esteban Perez and his brothers and sisters at FPL. That’s because they’re part of a pretty special group – lineworkers.
Lineworkers are referred to as first responders of the electric grid. From routine day-to-day calls to being away from home for weeks on end after hurricanes and natural disasters, they’re the ones working to keep your lights on. All the while sacrificing their time with their family. But to them, it’s more than a job – it’s who they are. It’s their way of giving back to the nation and Florida communities they love.
Last year alone, hundreds of FPL lineworkers responded to four natural disasters around the country:
- Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico
- Hurricane Florence in North Carolina
- Hurricane Michael in the Panhandle of Florida and South Georgia
- Historic Camp Fire in Northern California
They're always willing and ready to help, such as in the recent Hurricane Dorian. It’s in their blood. And the next time Florida battles Mother Nature’s worst – hurricanes – you can rest assured that this group will be there for you. And behind each of these lineworkers working to keep your lights on is a family equally as strong and devoted. Hear Esteban’s wife speak to what it’s like to be married to a lineworker and raise a family in the video above.
About the Author - Tyler Mauldin
Tyler Mauldin is a degreed meteorologist and member of the FPL Storm team. During storm scenarios, he supports the media relations team by serving as an emergency communicator.