This story highlights the efforts of Wisconsin Public Service WPS crews as they prepare to assist in the recovery from Hurricane Milton. A total of 25 WPS employees from Northeast Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula have volunteered to help restore power in Florida, where the hurricane is expected to cause widespread damage.
Under a mutual aid agreement with Florida’s equivalent utility services, WPS quickly responded to the call for assistance. Matt Cullen, a WPS spokesman, emphasized the importance of providing help during crises like these, just as Wisconsin receives aid during severe storms.
For many of the linemen, this marks their first time working in a hurricane-affected area. Todd Schoepke, a 30-year WPS veteran, shared his eagerness to assist, stating, We want to help people get their power on.” Meanwhile, Chad Ellis, on his third deployment, acknowledged the uncertainty ahead, particularly regarding water levels and damaged infrastructure.
The WPS crew is ready to work long hours, with their deployment expected to last at least two weeks. Despite the challenges, their focus remains on helping restore power to communities hit hardest by the hurricane.