When one of the harshest winter storms in more than three decades swept across New Jersey, it delivered far more than snowfall. The system brought whiteout conditions, historic snow totals, and powerful winds that pushed communities to their limits. Winter Storm Hernando arrived quickly and with force.

Within hours, neighborhoods were blanketed with two to three feet of snow. Wind gusts reaching 50 mph broke limbs, felled trees, and led to widespread outages. Schools and businesses shut their doors. Roads became impassable. Transportation ground to a halt.

It was a storm unlike anything the state had experienced in years — and precisely the type of challenge we train for.

Being Jersey Ready isn’t just a tagline. It defines how we respond, especially when circumstances are at their most difficult.

More than 3,000 team members mobilized throughout our service area, working nonstop in freezing temperatures and heavy snow.

That workforce included over 1,150 line technicians, 400 tree crews, 472 mutual aid contractors, and hundreds of additional field personnel united by one goal: restoring service safely and as swiftly as possible.

During the storm, our teams:

All of this unfolded as the storm rapidly intensified over a 24-hour period.

Before repairs could even start, crews had to dig out snow-covered infrastructure and create safe access routes through deep drifts just to reach poles, wires, and underground equipment. It was demanding work in extreme conditions — the very scenarios our teams prepare for year-round.

As restoration progressed steadily, we were able to release mutual aid partners to support neighboring utilities continuing their recovery efforts across the region.

At the same time, we remained in close communication with customers — answering nearly 13,000 calls within seconds and issuing more than 200,000 proactive outage alerts. Additionally, 7,900 customers reported outages through our service channels, including text messaging and our mobile app.

When severe weather strikes, we act — and we keep you informed every step of the way.

Outcomes like these are the result of years of investment and planning. For more than a decade, we’ve reinforced and modernized our electric and gas infrastructure to better withstand extreme conditions — whether it’s a January blizzard or a summer heatwave.

Our preparedness efforts include:

These initiatives represent just part of the work happening behind the scenes each day to strengthen and protect our systems.

This winter alone has brought multiple storms and prolonged stretches of dangerous cold. Yet no matter how persistent the weather, the commitment of our Jersey Ready workforce remains unwavering.

These are local professionals serving their own communities — people who live here, raise families here, and take pride in keeping neighbors safe and connected.

That resilience reflects the spirit New Jersey is known for, and we’re proud to stand alongside it.

Storm response is never accomplished alone. During Hernando, we partnered closely with state and municipal officials to coordinate snow removal and ensure safe access to impacted areas so crews could perform their work efficiently.

Severe weather underscores how interconnected we all are — utilities, local governments, first responders, and residents working together to recover and move forward.

We understand how disruptive and stressful it is to lose power or heat — especially in freezing temperatures. We appreciate your patience and your engagement with us throughout the storm.

When the next winter system heads toward New Jersey, you can count on us to remain steady, prepared, and Jersey Ready.

Tell us a little about yourself and your career journey so far.
I’ve been part of the GoDaddy team for almost seven years, and I currently work as a Customer Happiness Engineer, focusing primarily on ManageWP and the Hub dashboard. Over time, my role has grown to include broader support across a range of GoDaddy services within the Hub team.

My career in Customer Care began in tech support, where I discovered how much I enjoy breaking down complex technical issues into simple, understandable solutions. That passion for problem-solving and helping others is what drew me to this field in the first place.

Joining GoDaddy was a pivotal step in my journey—it gave me the opportunity to collaborate with highly skilled colleagues and support entrepreneurs from all walks of life. Every day brings a fresh challenge, and I love that no two days are ever the same. I’m genuinely grateful for the amazing team I work alongside and for the chance to make a positive impact on our customers’ experiences.
 
What has been your most valuable learning experience over the past year?
This past year reinforced the value of adaptability and continuous growth. Technology and customer needs evolve quickly, so staying curious and open to new ideas is essential. I’ve learned that some of my biggest professional leaps happen when I step out of my comfort zone—whether that’s mastering a new tool or sharpening my communication skills.

A standout experience for me was representing GoDaddy at WordCamp Europe as part of our delegation team. Although I had been involved with the event’s organizing team for two consecutive years, this time I was on the front lines at our booth. It was eye-opening to engage directly with attendees, share insights about our products, and receive real-time feedback. That in-person connection gave me a new perspective and helped me grow both professionally and personally.
 
How do you balance technical problem-solving with customer communication?
The balance comes down to empathy and clear communication. Technical issues can be stressful for customers, so I always aim to explain solutions in straightforward, jargon-free language while making sure they feel understood and supported. Listening carefully to their concerns is just as important as resolving the issue itself. The goal is to ensure they walk away feeling confident in both the solution and the service.
 
What do you value most about GoDaddy’s company culture?
The sense of teamwork and support is what stands out the most. At GoDaddy, every voice matters, and collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. Wins are celebrated together, and challenges are tackled as a united front. This inclusive, encouraging environment not only fuels innovation but also fosters personal and professional growth.
 
What advice would you give someone starting out in GoDaddy’s Care department?
Ask questions, seek support, and don’t hesitate to learn from those around you—the culture here is incredibly collaborative. Listening deeply to customers is key; every interaction is an opportunity to create a lasting positive impression.

Stay open to feedback, remain curious, and welcome change as a path to growth. And most importantly, bring your authentic self to work. Your unique experiences and perspective are assets that help build stronger connections with both colleagues and customers. A positive attitude, empathy, and willingness to learn will take you far.
 
Do you have a personal motto or guiding principle?
I live by two: