The Hispanic people I work with in construction risk their lives to build Charlotte | Opinion

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month this month, I feel called to share my journey and the experiences that have shaped who I am today. Born in El Salvador, I moved to the United States in 2003. I was just a kid, full of dreams but unaware of the challenges and opportunities ahead.

My life took a meaningful turn when I landed in Charlotte after a brief stay in Georgia. A friend offered me a labor position in construction, marking the start of a journey I never envisioned. From sheetrock and framing, I rapidly ascended the ranks. Within three months, I found myself as a lead foreman, responsible for 20-30 laborers daily.

Recognizing my potential, the owner asked me to become safety coordinator. After obtaining training and even translating safety courses for others. I officially entered the field of construction safety. Today, I am Safety Manager at Samet Corporation. I spend my days ensuring that each construction site in the Charlotte area is safe, that every worker has the equipment and training they need, and that any potential hazards are identified and mitigated.

What resonates with me deeply is the profound influence Hispanics have on the construction industry. I work alongside many Latino workers, and I often find myself in conversations about their lives, their families, hopes and dreams. Most of these men and women work from sunrise to sunset, driven by the need to provide for their families, many of whom are still in their home countries. The sacrifices they make, leaving loved ones behind to build a better future, is a testament to their resilience and dedication.

One of my favorite memories is the sight of our workers taking a break to enjoy watermelon on a hot day. This simple act of camaraderie reflects the familial environment we aim to foster. In those moments, it’s not just about hydration or heat exhaustion. It’s about making everyone feel part of a bigger family, a community that supports and looks out for each other.

But it’s not all watermelon breaks and camaraderie. The construction industry is fraught with dangers. Each day, our workers decide how they’ll return home — as a loved one or as bad news. Each decision, each act of ignoring safety protocol, carries weight. When someone fails to follow safety protocol, it’s not just a personal failure, it’s a failure to their family.

The significance of safety in construction hits home for the Hispanic community in Charlotte, particularly in light of recent devastating incidents. The Jan. 2 scaffolding collapse in uptown Charlotte claimed the lives of three Latino workers and the construction fire in SouthPark in May also resulted in tragic loss.

These accidents are not just headlines or statistics. They are heartbreaking reminders that behind every construction project are men and women with families, dreams and communities that rely on them. We owe it to our fallen compañeros and their families to learn, adapt and ensure such devastating incidents do not happen again. That’s why I spend my days on job sites promoting safety. I’m not the one on the frontlines every day. The laborers are, and they’re the ones who need to understand how to do their jobs safely.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, I salute my fellow Hispanics in the construction industry who contribute their skill, sweat and their spirit every day. Let’s honor our heritage by prioritizing safety, respect and care for one another. This month, and every month, let’s recognize our collective strength, resilience and the indispensable role we play in shaping this great nation.

Edgar Rubio is the Environmental, Health and Safety Project Manager in Charlotte for Samet Construction.