GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ)- Wisconsin service workers are about to do something that has not been done before.
“This is the first time that WPS and We Energies has been called upon to help restore power outside of the continental United States” said Matt Cullen of WPS.
Crews will help restore power that was knocked out by Hurricane Maria back in September.
Vehicles and Equipment are already in route to Puerto Rico, and soon 11 employees from Northeast Wisconsin will join a few dozen other employees from the state to work outside of the county for the first time.
“They are prepared to assist wherever they are needed to restore electricty as quickly as possible.”
After the company asked for volunteers who were willing to make the trip right after the holidays, Cullen said they got a strong response.
“There was a number of employees that volunteered to be apart of it” Cullan said.
Those making the trip are expected to be there for a month to a month a half or longer if necessary.
Six of those who will be making the trip are employees in Green Bay.
Wisconsin Public Service and We Energies will be sending a total of 55 workers to Puerto Rico next month.
WPS Operations Manager Craig Kahoun says it is a great opportunity for many.
“When our trucks roll into areas, it’s a good feeling. Our people are very good at what they do, and the oppertunity to go to a place like this is so unique.”
40 to 50 percent of residents are still without power from Hurricane Maria in September.
