Since joining the Belt in April 2021, Miguel Arteaga has taken on various responsibilities as a laborer, welder helper and welder. On Jan. 1, Arteaga added communication foreman to that list.

“Change is good, and I’m learning a lot,” said Arteaga, who notes his appreciation for individuals such as Communications Technicians Richard Blackwell and Brandon Farley. “Since day one, they’ve been welcoming and helpful when I approach them with questions.”

Blackwell says he’s delighted to have Arteaga as part of the team.

“Besides being a great person, he’s highly motivated and adaptive to new responsibilities,” Blackwell said. “Miguel has a sunny disposition and is respected by peers. He’s a perfect fit as the new foreman due to his railroad knowledge and desire to continually improve our department.”

Arteaga also thanks Manager of Signal Jorge Guerrero for sharing his expertise and notes he’s fascinated by how fiber optic cables and other technologies interconnect across the Belt. 

“Everything ties in one way or another to communications,” he said. “It’s the backbone.”

Arteaga added that his background in network system administration and long-standing interest in technology have aided his development as his job involves public safety and working with the automatic equipment identification (AEI) system.

At home, Arteaga enjoys time with his wife, Vanessa, and their three children. He also likes renovating their house and recently added a patio, gazebo and a grill area.