They are often behind the scenes, but they make 393 tick! They are the support staff who manage the administrative duties of our union. From greeting the members at the front counter, to keeping the books, to supporting the business agents, they provide amazing service, and we wouldn’t have a union without them!
Elaine Sakazaki
Administrative Assistant, 17 years with 393
“I’ve worked several positions within the union, and right now I manage the front counter. I think the amount of work that goes through this office on a daily basis is amazing. We handle issues for the members, the agents, and anyone who walks through the door. I like to do whatever I can to make the members’ lives easier – that’s what we’re here for. We help make the union shine. I grew up in a union family, and I like that unions are family oriented. Members are your brothers and sisters, and it’s nice having that camaraderie. Outside of work, I live with my 88-year old dad and walk my yellow lab Maggie every night – she’s definitely a big ole blonde!”
Minnie Garza
Secretary-Assistant Bookkeeper,
15 years with 393
“I’ve been working for unions since 1974. I’m 100% union, and the union life is all I know. The largest portion of my job is processing membership. Working with the members is my favorite part. It means a lot when they call and ask for me, and I can help them quickly. I’ve known many of them since they were young, and now they are gray and retired. We’ve watched each other grow up. They ask me when I’m retiring, and I tell them not anytime soon. I really enjoy my work. I’ve got a son, a grandson in college, and 12-year-old granddaughter who live with us. My granddaughter keeps me active with biking, hiking, and rollerskating. It’s like being a mom all over again.”
Yvonne Willis
Executive Administrator, 11 years with 393
“I support Steve Flores, the business agents, and the other staff. Sometimes it’s challenging to balance the needs of so many in a growing organization – and we’ve grown a lot over the years! I do all the scheduling with political leaders, developers, and contractors. But the most rewarding part of my job is actually administering the members’ death benefits and being there for families during their time of loss. It means so much to provide compassion and make sure they receive financial support from UA 393 and the International. It can help a lot. In my free time I like to walk or jog on the beach with my husband, and fashion is one of my hobbies. They know my name at TJ Maxx!”
Sarah Bond
Bookkeeper, 1.5 years with 393
“Numbers are my thing, and I love what I do. There is a right way; there’s a solution; and you can’t dispute it. The most challenging part of my job is that every contractor uses a different payroll service, and when members have a paycheck dispute, it always takes some analysis. I want to ensure members are being paid right. The best part about working here is how much the guys respect the staff and show their appreciation. This is the kind of place where the members hold the door open for you which says a lot. In my free time, I like to take my four kids to sporting events. NASCAR is my favorite, and though I don’t get to see it as much with young children, it’s in my blood.”
April Villacorta
Office Administrator, 1.5 years with 393
“There’s two main areas I’m responsible for at the union. The first is dealing with apprentice upgrades. The Training Center lets me know who has enough hours, and I move them to the next period and ensure they get their raises in a timely manner. The second is processing all the timesheets for public works projects and making sure our members get their hours in and get paid. I love taking care of the members. We go above and beyond to make sure they have whatever they need. I live with my boyfriend less than a mile away from the hall, but my favorite thing to do is travel far away. My next dream vacation is the Amalfi Coast in Italy. I’ve got to get on that!”