For the second consecutive year, IBEW 1245, with the support of PG&E, sent 2 volunteer crews of linemen to the Navajo Nation in Arizona to support the effort to get electricity to the over 10,000 families desperately needing power. 1245 business representative Todd Kadota again volunteered to support the mission.
The work was mostly in the Chinle District, not far from Four Corners, where Arizona, Utah, New Mexico and Colorado meet. While the temperatures were pleasant for September, there were thunderstorms from monsoon season that made logistics, at times, challenging.
Once again, the volunteers spent 2 weeks away from their families to help with this worthy cause. IBEW 1245 paid for all associated expenses, while PG&E again paid the wages of the linemen. In our visit, it was refreshing to hear from each lineman, the gratitude expressed about having the experience to help those in need.
IBEW 1245 members joined in celebrating with a Navajo Nation family receiving electricity for the first time. 1245 members pictured are Sal Ramos, Tanner Cole, Mason Salcedo and Ryan Boyd.
When asked what inspired him to volunteer for the mission and spend two weeks away from his family, transmission troubleshooter Pete Gallegos’ answer was simple: “I really felt like my faith steered me to this. I’m helping others which makes me feel like I’m serving a higher calling”.
For San Jose journeyman Shane Collins, his answer was, “I’ve really enjoyed working in a different environment and being up in the air with the Navajo linemen. It’s been a wonderful opportunity to share our knowledge and learn about the trade from a perspective we wouldn’t get to experience otherwise”.
Sal Ramos, GC Subforeman from Santa Rosa, was the lone returning volunteer from the 2025 mission. His sentiments were similar. “This reminds me of working in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria. The people we are helping are so appreciative. We were able to meet a woman who was 100 years old, that had never had electricity at her home. To hear her gratitude almost brought me to tears”.
Perhaps the happiest of the 1245 members returning home was Pete Gallegos. Pete found a stray puppy at a local gas station. “Navi” will soon be in his new home with the Gallegos family in Red Bluff.
Thank you to PG&E for their support and to our volunteers.
Sal Ramos Sonoma GC
Mason Salcedo Sonoma GC
Ryan Boyd Marysville Division
Pete Gallegos Red Bluff Transmission
Shane Collins Edenvale Division
Thade Fahy Redding Division
Tanner Cole, Ukiah Division
Charlie Webster Chico Division
– Bob Gerstle, Senior Assistant Business Manager
