It is with great sadness that we share the sudden death of IBEW 1245 member Alyssa Fernandez. Alyssa was a standout Customer Service Representative at PG&E San Jose Call Center. After a short hiatus away from PG&E, she returned to PG&E and most recently served as a Routine Field Clerk supporting Fleet. She was 29 years old at the time of her death.
Organizing Steward Alyssa Fernandez of IBEW 1245 photographed at the union hall in Vacaville, Calif. on January 26th, 2018.
Early on in her career, Alyssa emerged as a compelling young union leader who was widely respected by her peers. In 2017 she was appointed as an IBEW 1245 Organizing Steward.
Alyssa participated in multiple organizing campaigns, including IBEW Local 465’s drive to organize the clerical division at San Diego Power and Gas, putting in twelve-to-fifteen-hour days. She eagerly participated in organizing trainings, coming in early to the Hall to set up, leading break-out sessions, and staying late to clean up. She represented IBEW 1245 at various conferences, including the annual RENEW and EWMC conferences. She was typically the first to volunteer to pack a hearing hall and to mobilize her peers to help.
In 2018, Alyssa was appointed as a Lead Organizing Steward in recognition of her dedication and leadership qualities.
It is with great sadness that we share the sudden death of IBEW 1245 member Alyssa Fernandez.
“Her enthusiasm was contagious. Her generous spirit encouraged others to participate in building our union. She defended the rights of workers and stood in solidarity with others, always with a smile. She will be sorely missed,” said long time co-worker, friend and staff organizer Rene Cruz Martinez.
IBEW 1245 Business Manager Bob Dean said, “The IBEW 1245 family has lost a Sister and a dedicated union activist. We extend our profound sympathy to Alyssa’s family and friends. As we grieve her passing, we give thanks for her many contributions to the union movement and for her precious time on this earth.”
A “Go Fund Me” account has been set up to help defray funeral costs. You can contribute by going to the following links:
https://www.gofundme.com/f/memorial-fund-for-alyssa-sarah-fernandez
PG&E has also initiated a vacation sale to help the family. Instructions of how to support the vacation sale are here.