Operator of the Year: Hector Diaz
Hector Diaz is a true testament to the American Dream. Born in El Salvador, Hector came to this country at the age of 19 and became a permanent U.S. resident in 2003. In 2004, after noticing a “help wanted” sign posted outside Andrews Concrete Pumping, Hector walked in and applied. The owner, Dennis Andrews, gave him the job. Hector began cleaning the yard and clamps, loading trucks and delivering system to the job.

Working around the pumps, Hector decided he wanted to become a pump operator. Unfortunately, several obstacles stood in his way. Not being able to read or write English was a huge challenge for Hector, but within a short time, Hector overcame these obstacles and obtained his CDL license.
Dennis took a special interest in Hector and personally trained him to pump concrete using a trailer pump as well as a 28-meter boom pump. Under Dennis’ watchful eye, Hector became quite a proficient operator. Eventually, Hector had fulfilled all the requirements for becoming an ACPA-certified concrete pump operator. This year is a proud milestone for Hector as he celebrates his 10th year of continuous ACPA certification.
A jack-of-all-trades when it comes to pumping, Hector will run as a slab-jacking pump, ChemGrout pump, trailer pump or a boom pump up to 47 meters on any given day. But his favorite pump is the 31 EZ telescoping boom pump. Hector likes the additional challenges associated with operating the pump in tight spaces or inside buildings where maneuverability and accuracy are key. Hector always puts safety first and has maintained an impeccable safety record.
Hector’s congeniality and positive attitude are only a few of the reasons he is Andrews’ most requested operator. Customers, as well as his co-workers, have great respect and confidence in his ability to get the job done. What’s more, Hector is always eager to go the extra mile to ensure the job is completed efficiently and—most of all—safe.
Jose Calderon of TOBAR Construction, Inc. says, “Hector is the finest pump operator we’ve ever used. He’s a real team player, but—above all—he is safe. He always makes safety his top priority, not only the safety of himself and his equipment, but also that of our people.”
George Graeber of Intown Restorations, Inc. says, “We have used Hector on many of our projects, most of which are difficult at best, and he has always gone above and beyond in helping our crews get the concrete placed.”
Over the years, Hector has developed a strong love for America and a true passion for being an American. His career in concrete pumping has afforded Hector and his wife, Veronica, the ability to own a home, as well as an additional home which he rents to his brother. Most importantly, a concrete pumping career provides Hector’s three children with greater opportunities and an even brighter future for a better life.
At World of Concrete 2017, Schwing America displayed a brand-new 31 EZ concrete pump with Hector’s name printed on the side in its booth. For Hector, this is the highlight of a career that has not only provided a good life for his family, but is something he looks forward to and enjoys each day.
When he’s not hard at work pumping concrete, Hector enjoys working on his home and spending time with his family and friends.