At McGuire and Hester, safety is more than just a priority—it’s a value that defines everything we do. Our safety team is a dynamic group of individuals who work tirelessly to ensure that every employee returns home safe at the end of the day. They bring diverse skills, unique passions, and inspiring stories to their roles, creating a culture of safety that’s second to none. This month, I am thrilled to spotlight the amazing people behind our safety initiatives.
Gustavo Yanez: Combining Hard Work and Heart
Surprising Fact: Gustavo cares for horses in his free time, reflecting his nurturing and disciplined nature.
Memorable Day on the Job: Seeing a crane for the first time was awe-inspiring and marked the beginning of his deep appreciation for construction.
Why Construction? Growing up around family members in the industry, Gustavo was inspired by their dedication and hard work.
If Not Safety? He’d pursue a career as a mechanic or anything involving working with his hands.
Life Lesson: Gustavo’s career has taught him how vital safety is for everyone on the job site.
Relaxation: Spending quality time with family.
Dream Destination: Mexico, to reconnect with his family roots.
Rene Acosta: A Passion for People and Safety
Surprising Fact: Rene is a die-hard fan of the San Francisco Giants, 49ers, and Warriors.
Memorable Day on the Job: Collaborating with other safety professionals as part of a larger safety committee at UCSF was an unforgettable experience.
Why Construction? With a background in residential renovation, Rene found his stride in the broader construction industry.
If Not Safety? Rene would try his hand at being a TikTok influencer.
Life Lesson: Treat others with respect, just as you’d like to be treated.
Relaxation: Hitting the golf course.
Dream Destination: Europe, for its rich diversity of cultures and cuisines.
Wes Murer: Turning Challenges into Passion
Surprising Fact: Wes competes in adventure mountain bike races, covering distances of 50 to 100 miles.
Memorable Day on the Job: Investigating an industrial fatality shaped Wes’s deep commitment to construction safety and his passion for protecting others.
Why Construction? What started as an opportunity grew into a lifelong career path.
If Not Safety? Wes dreams of becoming an Alaska bush pilot.
Life Lesson: Loving and having passion for your craft is essential.
Relaxation: Hunting, fishing, and mountain biking.
Dream Destination: Space—for the ultimate adventure.
Trino Ortiz: Building Safety Through Communication
Surprising Fact: Trino volunteers with Sacred Heart nonprofit every other Sunday.
Memorable Day on the Job: Working at Parnassus was unforgettable—every day there felt meaningful.
Why Construction? Inspired by his father, a carpenter, Trino followed in his footsteps.
If Not Safety? He’d channel his creativity into becoming an architect.
Life Lesson: Communication is the key to success, both in safety and in life.
Relaxation: Gardening and jogging.
Dream Destination: Italy, France, and Spain, to immerse himself in their cultures.
Courtney Sandoval: A Vision for Collaboration
One of the ways Courtney spends relaxes outside of work is spending time at the beach. This sunset photo is from a recent birthday celebration.
Surprising Fact: Courtney has a photographic memory, an invaluable skill for detail-oriented safety work.
Memorable Day on the Job: Though just a month in, Courtney is excited for the many memorable days ahead.
Why Construction? She loves contributing to projects that shape cities and improve lives.
If Not Safety? Brokering commercial real estate and development is a field she finds fascinating.
Life Lesson: Collaboration and mutual contribution lead to success, as Steve Jobs once said: “Great things in business are never done by one person.”
Relaxation: Road trips, bike rides, and board games.
Dream Destination: Portugal and Spain, to explore her family’s heritage.
Kim Carone: Leading with Legacy and Heart
Surprising Fact: Aside from growing up on a ranch and living a western lifestyle, Kim was a wildland firefighter, running her own crews and engines while proudly serving as a union member.
Memorable Day on the Job: Being asked to lead the Safety and Risk Management Department was a profound moment, reflecting the company’s trust in her to build a team responsible for the care and safety of employees, their families, and the public.
Why Construction? As a fifth-generation construction worker, Kim’s roots run deep in the industry, with family members serving as engineers, operators, and more. She views construction as her calling.
If Not Safety? Kim would pursue a career in emergency medicine, working with either humans or animals.
Life Lesson: Strong relationships matter most, reminding us of our shared humanity and the importance of responding well to mistakes.
Relaxation: Spending time on her ranch with her family and animals, especially enjoying evenings exercising the horses.
Dream Destination: Exploring the American Southwest’s historical sites, such as Mesa Verde and the Canyonlands, via horseback.
A Team United by Purpose
Our safety team’s stories remind us of the personal passions and experiences that drive their dedication to our well-being. From ensuring open communication to constantly seeking improvement, their work impacts everyone at McGuire and Hester.
As we continue to build a safe and thriving workplace, let’s take a moment to celebrate the individuals who make it possible. Thank you, Gustavo, Rene, Wes, Trino, and Courtney, for your commitment and care. Here’s to many more memorable days ahead, both on and off the job site!