Blanca Rios, the Area Coordinator (AC) for NEIEP’s Region 19, is a force to be reckoned with in the elevator industry. Overseeing most of Texas, including Locals 21, 31, 131, and 133, Blanca has spent the past year making a significant impact in her role at NEIEP, building on nearly two decades of experience in the elevator trade.

Blanca’s journey into the elevator industry was as unexpected as it was transformative. Nearly 18 years ago, while working at Home Depot, she crossed paths with someone who was leaving to pursue a career in elevators. Intrigued by their enthusiasm upon returning, Blanca decided to take a chance and follow their lead. Having never considered the trades, joining the elevator industry, as she puts it, turned out to be the best professional decision she’s ever made.

For Blanca, the elevator trade combined hands-on work with the sense of solidarity she admired in her father, a union Postal Worker. She quickly embraced both the technical challenges and the community-driven union culture that defines the International Union of Elevator Constructors (IUEC).

A Career of Dedication and Growth

Blanca began her career as a probationary Apprentice and rose through the ranks as a Mechanic, working across construction, service, modernization, and repair. Over the years, she also took on part-time administrative roles, serving on the Executive Board and instructing Apprentices, a testament to her passion for mentorship and education.

Her own apprenticeship journey left a profound impact, largely thanks to the support of mentors like her first Mechanic and inspiring Instructors who helped her overcome challenges and build a solid foundation of technical skills. Blanca believes that every individual has an impact on others, and she felt that deeply through the NEIEP apprenticeship program. The support she received from individuals during her formative years in the industry is what motivates her to pay it forward.

A Day in the Life of an Area Coordinator

Like other ACs, Blanca’s days are a mix of clerical work, travel, and personal engagement with NEIEP stakeholders. Whether it’s assisting Joint Apprenticeship Committees (JACs), supporting Instructors, or mentoring Apprentices, she takes pride in facilitating success at every level.

Blanca’s hands-on approach includes visiting classrooms, helping Apprentices navigate NEIEP resources, and troubleshooting challenges, whether they’re technical, academic, or logistical. “I want every Apprentice to reach their full potential,” she says. No matter what they need – computer help, direction on coursework, or extra support – she’s there to guide them.

Her weeks are often packed with career fairs and outreach events, especially during National Apprenticeship Week, where she helps shine a light on the lesser-known but rewarding career opportunities in the elevator industry. “It’s about planting seeds,” Blanca explains. “Even if someone isn’t ready today, they’ll know where to turn when the time comes.”

The NEIEP Community and Culture

For Blanca, NEIEP is more than just an employer; it’s a mission-driven organization dedicated to shaping the future of the trade. Everyone at NEIEP is passionate about what they do, she notes. From virtual labs to online mentorship programs, NEIEP continuously evolves to meet the industry’s needs while supporting every apprentice’s success.

She’s quick to highlight the behind-the-scenes effort that goes into maintaining NEIEP’s high standards. According to Blanca, members don’t realize how much work goes into ensuring they have access to the best education for the best trade in the world. Regardless, she sees it as a privilege to be involved.

Looking to the Future

Blanca’s enthusiasm for her role is palpable, and her vision for the future is focused on ongoing growth, both personal and organizational. “I could do this for 15 more years and still learn something new every day,” she says with a smile.

Whether she’s solving day-to-day challenges, connecting with members across the region, or celebrating milestones like an Apprentice becoming a Mechanic, Blanca finds joy in the journey. “These moments – apprenticeship, becoming a Mechanic, retirement – are like life’s biggest milestones. It’s incredible to know I play a part in that.”

Blanca hopes to continue fostering success for every Apprentice and local in her region, building on the unique strengths and quirks of each. “Every local is like a member of a big family,” she says. “Seeing their struggles and successes brings me great joy.” As for what the future holds, Blanca is confident of one thing: her commitment to NEIEP, the IUEC, and the elevator trade is for the long haul. “This industry has changed my life for the better, and I’m honored to be part of it until the day I retire.”

Blanca Rios exemplifies the passion, dedication, and mentorship that make the elevator industry such a unique and rewarding field. Through her role as Area Coordinator, she’s not only elevating the future of NEIEP but also inspiring the next generation of constructors to reach new heights.