November 22, 2025 — As I start my 25th year at PEF, spanning eight administrations and four presidents, I was invited by President Wayne Spence to attend the SOMOS conference for the first time. It was eye-opening in the best way.
The days started early and were long.
From the moment I arrived, it was clear SOMOS isn’t just another conference. The halls were alive with energy — elected officials, labor leaders, and community advocates participating in presentations, panel discussions, and face-to-face conversations, all focused on making a difference. For PEF, having a seat at the table matters — and we don’t get that seat without showing up.
One of the standout moments for me was a workshop called “Empowering People in an AI World: Education, Equity, and the Future of Work.” President Spence participated in a panel discussion with State Senators Julia Salazar and Kristen Gonzalez and Assemblymember Alex Bores about how artificial intelligence is reshaping jobs and education — and how labor must have a voice in that transformation.
The Day of Service that has become a tradition of SOMOS wasn’t a photo op; it was about giving back to a community that’s too often denied opportunity and hope. This year, the PEF team visited Escuela Elemental Dr. Julio J. Henna, a local elementary school in San Juan. We rolled up our sleeves alongside other union members to clean, paint, and help revitalize the school grounds. Together, we planted flowers and trees and built new swings.
The entire experience reminded me why showing up as a union matters — having a seat at the table starts with being in the room. I’m grateful to President Spence for giving me the opportunity to attend SOMOS and represent PEF at such a meaningful event.