Public Power Week recognizes community-owned utilities, like the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC), and all the benefits they bring to the communities that they serve. Some of these benefits include affordability, a commitment to clean energy, and accountability to the public.

Meet Ernest Terrazas, one of many dedicated electricians at the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC). Terrazas is not your ordinary electrician. His passion for adventure and dedication to his craft make him a unique and invaluable member of the SFPUC family. Here’s a glimpse into the world of Terrazas and his exceptional journey.

A Hooked Interview
Terrazas journey with the SFPUC began with an unforgettable interview. While most of us would opt for a traditional office setting, Terrazas decided to take a more adventurous route. During his interview for the position, he found himself on a boat off the coast of San Diego, participating in an interview via Zoom. Talk about multitasking! Not only did he impress the SFPUC with his technical skills, but he also showcased his ability to catch fish while discussing the role and why he’s a fit. “Not missing the interview and not missing the fishing trip – that's the way to go!”

Terrazas love for fishing goes beyond his remarkable interview story. As an avid angler, he’s reeled in some great catches, but none quite as memorable as the 13 dorados and massive 100-pound tuna he hooked during his San Diego fishing trip. It’s clear that his passion for fishing mirrors his dedication to his work – always aiming for the biggest catch, whether in the ocean or in electrical problem-solving.

A Multi-Faceted Electrician Ensuring Reliable Power Services
Terrazas role as an electrician at the SFPUC is diverse and crucial. He's the go-to expert for troubleshooting and repairing electrical issues, primarily focusing on street lighting. He’s also an invaluable asset when it comes to handling switchgears for City buildings and assisting with new construction projects. On top of all of this, Terrazas is involved in solar installations, including projects at iconic locations like the Opera House and the North Point Water Treatment Plant.

Lineworkers and electricians like Terrazas play a vital role in ensuring that the City’s power remains reliable. Terrazas and his team ensure that existing electrical systems can handle the City’s ever-growing demand. They meticulously maintain these systems to keep them operational, in compliance with code and requirements. Their dedication to maintenance is the bedrock of reliability for the SFPUC’s power services.

A Love for the City and Its People
What Terrazas loves most about his job is the City itself and the people he serves. Having grown up in the Bay Area, Terrazas is deeply connected to the community. His work allows him to interact with the public while ensuring their safety and comfort. For him, it's more than just a job; it's a way to give back to the place he calls home.

"I love my job, and I love where I'm at with the people I'm working with. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else."

Terrazas is not just an electrician; he's an adventurer, a dedicated professional, and a passionate member of the SFPUC family. The future of public power is bright with dedicated SFPUC employees, like Terrazas, serving many communities daily.

Learn more about the City’s efforts to expand public power in San Francisco at publicpowersf.org.