After dedicating 26 years to Canyon State Electric (CSE), journeyman electrician, Esteban Marez is retiring from his long-held position. Since joining the company in 1993, Marez has been a valuable member of the team, contributing significantly to the organization.
"It's difficult to put into words what Esteban means to me and all of the CSE team," stated President Robert Hughes, adding "Every time I saw him, he always had a smile on his face and was hard at work. The knowledge and mentorship he provided for others will never be forgotten. We all congratulate Esteban on the next chapter of his life."
CSE’s Work Culture and Its Impact
Born in Texas, Marez grew up speaking Spanish and was initially unfamiliar with English
Born in Texas, Marez grew up speaking Spanish and was initially unfamiliar with English when he started in the trade. He leveraged his job to improve his English skills, which he found challenging yet rewarding.
"It was pretty hard because I had to learn all the parts," Marez explained. "Sometimes I took the blueprints home and asked (my wife) to translate them for me. But that’s what I keep telling the young guys. If I did it, you guys have even more chances than me."
The supportive work culture at Canyon State Electric played a significant role in Marez's lengthy tenure with the company. "When you have a crew, it’s like a family. You know, we were working together for six years. You create a relationship with them, and you have to stay with them," Marez shared.
Problem Solving on the Job
Marez's crew recently completed the Inspirata Pointe project at the Royal Oaks senior living community, under the leadership of Justin Lewis, CSE’s assistant superintendent.
"Esteban was always willing to do whatever was needed to get the job done. He was also very good at finding solutions to some of the unique problems that can occur on the jobsite," noted Lewis.
Retirement Plans
In retirement, Marez intends to spend more time with his family, although he doesn't plan to slow down. His wife, Raquel Marez, humorously remarked, "I thought he was going to take control of the remote, but no. He doesn’t stop! He’s still outside. He has to be doing something."