Happy is focused, focused is safe. This mantra guides Paul Dindo, a senior safety representative at FirstEnergy, as he coordinates storm response efforts to ensure the safety and focus of electric company workers. With 12 years in FirstEnergy's safety department, Dindo has managed numerous storms across the company's six-state service area and participated in at least eight mutual aid trips. Recently, he was among over 580 FirstEnergy personnel aiding power restoration in Florida after Hurricane Milton.
"Safety defines me. I want to make sure our employees go home at the end of the day the same way they arrived," said Dindo, who previously worked as a substation electrician. "We go above and beyond to ensure the safety of our crews, especially while operating a power system that is unfamiliar to them."
Dindo's responsibilities extend beyond ensuring proper equipment use and protocol adherence; he also ensures crews have everything needed for safe operations, enhancing their focus and efficiency. "Getting back with everyone safe is the ultimate goal," said Dindo. "Nothing else matters in my job or anyone else's job if someone gets injured."
Rodney Brown, a fleet mechanic with Jersey Central Power & Light since 2014, also played a crucial role during Hurricane Milton recovery efforts in Florida. Brown and his partner traveled an average of 400 miles daily to maintain equipment functionality. "Seeing the devastation, you feel bad. It hits home, it's sad," said Brown about his first out-of-company storm experience. "I'm glad we get to be a part of helping people get their lives and homes back together."
Despite challenges such as limited access to basic comforts like warm showers and air conditioning during large-scale disasters like Hurricane Milton, both Brown and Dindo find their work rewarding.
Dindo appreciates witnessing FirstEnergy teams collaborate with other U.S. electric companies to restore systems and bring hope to affected families. "While I'm not the one putting wires up, it is exciting to help our crews do the work safely and effectively," Dindo said. "We all play an important role in getting the lights back on for customers."