OCALA, FL (352today.com) – If you’ve ever been without power after a hurricane, you know exactly who to thank when it’s restored. Today is National Lineworker Appreciation Day, and Duke Energy is recognizing the dedication of the more than 10,000 lineworkers, substation techs, and relay technicians who help power communities across Florida, the Carolinas, and the Midwest.
Lineworkers are often the first to respond after major storms, braving dangerous conditions to restore power and maintain critical infrastructure. Their work was especially important during the 2024 hurricane season. In Florida alone, Duke Energy crews restored power to 95% of customers within hours or days after hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton caused more than two million outages statewide.
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Helene, a Category 4 hurricane, proved to be one of the most devastating storms in company history. “The feeling of restoring power to communities who have been severely impacted by storms and storm damage is like nothing else you will ever experience in a job,” said Suzy Macke, a Florida-based lineworker.
Beyond storm recovery, lineworkers play an important role in helping Duke Energy meet the demands of rapid population and business growth. From installing transformers to upgrading the grid for cleaner energy, their impact is felt every day.
The Duke Energy Foundation has also invested more than $3.3 million since 2020 to support training programs and grow this essential workforce.