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Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: A Conversation with Customer Service Specialist Vera Dueñas-Argueta

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: A Conversation with Customer Service Specialist Vera Dueñas-Argueta
  • Donovan Gomez

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15 to October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the many contributions and accomplishments of the Hispanic and Latino/a/e/x community. Vera Dueñas-Argueta works in the Customer Service Bureau at the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). Working with Customer Service, she helps customers get set up with their utility services, as well as training new staff during the onboarding process. She talked about the importance of celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and how younger Latino/a/e/x students can begin a career in the utilities industry. 

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight: A Conversation with Customer Service Specialist Vera Dueñas-Argueta

Question: What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Answer: Hispanic Heritage Month is a time when I reflect most on the perseverance and endeavors experienced by my parents to succeed while immigrating to San Francisco from El Salvador. I am thankful for the sacrifices they made and the people who encouraged them all along the way.

Question: What are you most proud of about your culture?
Answer: I am proud of my strong family values. I take pride in caring for my family. Maintaining stability in my life and in my career has always been a priority for me.  My culture has taught me to never, never give up! Never take anything for granted and help and care for others. I look forward to helping the community every day.

Question: How is the Latino/a/e/x community stronger together?
Answer: Throughout my career, I've had the opportunity to work closely with numerous Spanish-speaking families. Treating them with respect and kindness, and addressing their concerns empower them as SFPUC customers.

Question: What advice would you give to young Latino/a/e/x students looking to start a career in the utilities industry? 
Answer: I highly encourage everyone to consider a journey in the utilities industry. The SFPUC is an innovative environment offering technical development from within a diverse choice of job opportunities. The City truly cares for employees’ well-being and is an inclusive and welcoming employer. The SFPUC is an excellent place to start a career!