Case Study:
Utility Workforce Support During a Large-Scale Wildfire Crisis
Industry: Utilities + Energy
Region: United States
Company Size:Large investor-owned utility serving millions of customers across a multi-state service territory
Key Results Achieved
Utility professionals deployed across critical functions
Requisition response rate with less than 12 hour average turnaround
Cleared claims backlog and enabled long-term grid recovery
The Challenge
Between 2012 and 2019, catastrophic wildfires caused billions of dollars in damage across California, placing extraordinary financial and operational strain on utility providers. During ongoing grid repair efforts, the client experienced a growing backlog of damage and utility claims that threatened service continuity, regulatory compliance, and financial stability.
Key challenges included:
Urgent need for experienced utility claims specialists
High-risk operational environment with zero margin for failure
Time-sensitive workloads tied to public safety and regulatory scrutiny
Increasing workforce complexity amid financial and organizational stress
With potential service disruptions and penalties looming, the client required immediate workforce reinforcement from a partner with deep utility expertise.
Our Solution
GTT mobilized its Utility Center of Excellence (COE) to deliver a rapid, compliant, and scalable workforce solution designed specifically for crisis-level utility operations.
Key elements of the solution included:
Customized utility recruitment strategy
Developed a tailored sourcing plan to ensure candidates held required certifications, credentials, and utility-specific experience.Rapid sourcing and onboarding of claims specialists
Qualified professionals were sourced and onboarded ahead of schedule, enabling immediate progress against the claims backlog.Workforce Payrolling Solution for DOT-compliant workers
During financial restructuring, GTT assumed employer-of-record responsibilities—managing onboarding, audits, drug testing, medical exams, driving record checks, and DOT compliance—allowing the client to focus on grid restoration.Broad functional expertise across utility operations
Talent supported areas including:Smart Meter Management
Electric Operations Management
Vegetation Management
Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Data Analytics Engineering
Customer Care & Billing Systems
Enterprise Asset Management
Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS)
Long-term partnership through crisis and recovery
As the client navigated financial restructuring, the partnership deepened, with GTT continuing to provide workforce stability and operational support.
The Results
150+ contractors placed across utility, engineering, IT, finance, and professional services roles
98% requisition response rate with an average response time under 12 hours
63% candidate shortlist rate, reflecting high screening accuracy
41% interview rate, demonstrating strong alignment with role requirements
Successful reduction of claims backlog, enabling operational stabilization and future readiness
Key Benefits to the Customer
Crisis-Ready Speed + Responsiveness
Rapid response times and near-total requisition coverage ensured critical roles were filled during a period of unprecedented urgency.
Deep Utility + Compliance Expertise
Certified, credentialed professionals supported high-risk utility functions while meeting strict regulatory and operational standards.
Operational Continuity During Recovery
By assuming workforce complexity and compliance burden, GTT allowed the client to remain focused on restoring and operating the electric grid safely.
Ready to Get Similar Results?
233 Vaughan Street, Unit 102, Portsmouth, NH 03801