NEC Lineworkers Brings Guatemalan Village Electricity
Nueces Electric Cooperative
Robstown (News Release) – NEC employees Joe Rivera and John Guzman, along with fellow Texas electric cooperative volunteers and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association's (NRECA) International program, have achieved something truly remarkable. They've brought the gift of electricity to the heart of Matasanos, Guatemala. Now, 240 villagers, 47 families, 1 school, 2 churches, and 1 health clinic have light for the very first time, forever changing these communities.
Over the span of two weeks, Rivera and Guzman, both Robstown natives with a combined 30 years of experience as lineworkers at Nueces Electric Cooperative, undertook a challenging assignment in Matasanos, Guatemala. Despite facing unforeseen challenges such as a general strike in the village, difficult terrain, and unseasonal rain, they worked tirelessly to complete it. The uncertainties surrounding these obstacles had initially left everyone uncertain if completing the project was even possible, but these linemen persevered and pushed through it, working hours beyond their designated time. They were dedicated to ensuring that they left this village with electricity.
Video courtesy of Nueces County Cooperative.
"I've dedicated years to my own community, and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to do the same in Guatemala," said Rivera, NEC Crew Lead, Journey Lineworker. Guzman, a Journey Lineworker with nine years at NEC, echoes similar sentiments, "It's about making a larger impact and making a change in these people's lives."
Rivera's commitment to community service has been recognized by NRECA, earning him a spot in the 'Honoring Lineworkers' feature, celebrating lineworker heroes. Rivera's heart of gold goes beyond this story. During our 'Shop with a Lineman' Event Rivera will donate a bike to each child that is selected. He contributes to the holiday toy drive, donates to the statewide safety scholarship fund, and received the 2023 TEC Life-Saving Award for aiding a person in distress. Volunteering for the Guatemala project aligns with Rivera's dedication to inspiring positive change in communities.
Photo courtesy of Nueces Electric Cooperative.
"Empowering a community and influencing someone's way of life means a lot to me; it's what I do every day," Rivera shared.
In August, Guzman was recognized as NEC's Employee of the Month for his exceptional dedication and willingness to go above and beyond. His commitment to excellence extends to volunteering in Guatemala, showcasing his desire to enhance the quality of life for others. Guzman's motivation for taking on additional responsibilities at work mirrors his determination to contribute to the Guatemala project.
NEC CEO Varzavand 'Avan' Irani aptly sums it up, "Every day, these men put their lives on the line. Eighty-five years ago, NEC brought power to our South Texas rural communities when no one else would; now our lineworkers are doing the same job in another country, in need of a helping hand."
