Posted September 25, 2006

1. Tell us about your father. What did he do for a living?

My Dad was a cattle rancher. His sole priority was making sure we had food on the table and a roof over our heads. Early on he told me that I needed to find a job that would pay better money and ensure a good standard of living. He gave me a couple ideas to get me started - working for the phone company, the electrical company, or UPS - where I ended up after high school.  

2. How did he influence your work ethic?

He taught me to always give 110% to everything in life. When we were kids, we watched him work hard to put food on the table. It was a constant struggle for him to make ends meet. But through all the struggles he always managed to stay on top of things. I've succeeded in the job I have today because of the work ethic he instilled in me.  

3. What work values do you hope to instill in your daughter?

Pretty much the same values that my Dad instilled in me. My parents weren't able to give us everything. They never bought me a car, for example. When my sister and I were kids, we thought we were the luckiest kids in the world when my Dad took us to the local store to get a Coca-Cola or Pepsi. I'm fortunate to be able to help my daughter get ahead in life. She's going to school to become a nurse. The future is very bright for her.  

4. What can workers do to ensure unions remain strong for their children and grandchildren?

Union workers need to educate their kids on the benefits they've had as a union member. They should encourage them to get into a union job and further their education to help others. If they want to become a lawyer, they should encourage them to consider becoming a labor lawyer. We need to send the message to future generations that working America needs their help.

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