Who are you?
My name is German "Leo" Yanez. I come from Bolivia. I moved to this country over 20 years ago.
What qualifications do you have that make you successful in your current position?
My current position is a first class lineman. I am successful at it because I pay attention to detail. I listen and, I am very careful of what I do, and how I do it.
What makes you qualified for this position?
I believe I am qualified for this position because I have been a union member for 19 years. I am very familiar with the rules, regulations, and our contract. I am also familiar with the changes that the industry is going through. Past experience has not equated to results, we need a change. I attended night school at Tompkins Cortland Community College. I graduated with honors with a business administration degree. I am also a driven individual. When I set out to do something, I do it with all my heart, and with all the strength I have.
What goals do you have?
The most important goal I have is to make a stronger union, by working for the members, and making sure that our union is ready for the future and whatever changes are coming.
How do you plan to achieve these goals?
I plan to achieve these goals through union member involvement, and through informing the membership. I believe that an informed member makes better decisions and will be happier just knowing what is going on. Information is important to understand the changes. Information is important to ensure that everyone is on the same page.
What are the most important rewards that you expect from this job?
I guess the first thing would be the satisfaction of getting things done for the good of our union, and for the good of the members. Next, making sure the changes that are coming will be to our advantage, will make the union stronger, and our workplace safer.
How do you work under pressure?
Hey, I thrive under pressure. It doesn't bother me any. It seems all my life I have been working, or studying, or doing something under pressure. It doesn't bother me. I think that I work better that way.
Are you good at delegating tasks?
I am good at delegating tasks. But, I also like to followup to make sure that things are done correctly and that nobody is slacking off.
What have you learned from your mistakes?
I have learned that everybody makes them. And, the important thing is not to dwell on the mistake, but to work hard to remedy them, and to share what you learned so that others don't repeat your mistake.