In the world of elevators, where safety and functionality are paramount, one man’s expertise stands out. With decades of hands-on experience, Trujillo is a leading figure in maintaining the safety and efficiency of elevator systems, ensuring that they remain reliable for the millions who use them daily.
Trujillo’s job demands a comprehensive understanding of elevator mechanisms and an in-depth knowledge of safety codes that span over a century. “If you look at my codes of compliance, I go all the way from 1915, every year, all the way up to 2019,” Trujillo explained, emphasizing the thoroughness required in his role. “So, I got to look at each book for what time that elevator was installed. I got it on computer, on disc and I got it in hard copy.”
With nearly 50 years in the elevator industry, Trujillo’s career began humbly as a helper. His journey saw him rise through the ranks, from mechanic to superintendent, before transitioning to a role as the chief elevator inspector for the states of Colorado and Nebraska. His extensive experience contributes to the assurance that elevators remain a safe mode of transport, as he notes, “There’s over a billion in the United States alone, and as far as the accidents, they’re minuscule. It’s not like the movies where you see the sparks on the rails and stuff. That don’t happen.”
Beyond his inspector duties, Trujillo is committed to educating future elevator professionals. As an instructor with the National Elevator Industry Educational Program, he shares his valuable insights and skills. “I’ve been teaching for the Elevator Union apprenticeship program for 25 years as well,” he said. “I also do a trainer for them. I’m going back in January to teach a scaffold class to all the instructors.”
Nebraska’s historic elevators, like those in the State Capitol, present unique challenges and opportunities for modernization. Trujillo marvels at these old installations. “They’re way undersized,” he remarked about the Capitol’s original 1932 elevators, likening them to phone booths. Yet, he acknowledges their charm and longevity, “If you take care of them, they run forever.”
Reflecting on his long career, Trujillo finds fulfillment in the diverse skills required in elevator maintenance. “When I got into it in 1978, it was the first time I enjoyed getting up and coming to work,” he said. “We cover electrical work, we cover carpentry work, we cover iron work, we cover pipe fitting. We do all the major crafts in one – in a shaft.”
As Trujillo approaches his 50th year in the industry, he continues to embrace the ever-evolving nature of elevator technology. “It’s always something new,” he concluded, highlighting the dynamic and ongoing developments in his field.
