Eric Salgado is working to make a difference, and nominator Nestor Heredia says he’s done that for her. Heredia began working with Salgado through Just Right Cleaning & Construction and Salgado supported him during his journey to build a career.

“Once I expressed interest in a new work environment I was able to tell Eric my needs and wants and he was able to skill me up to find my dream job at the Grant County health district. Eric was able to help me turn in my work boots for dress shoes in my current role,” Heredia said. 

Working to support others is a long-running trend for Salgado. He holds a degree from Central Washington University in Social Science, Business and Social Skills and has served as an advisor at Big Bend Community College. He eventually moved on to SkillSource, helping people build their careers there. He then moved on to Polestar Technical Services, Inc. and Just Right Cleaning & Construction and operates Salgado Staffing out of Ellensburg. 

He’s also a coach and has helped students in Logngview and various other schools enjoy basketball for about six years, Heredia said. 

Heredia said the Columbia Basin is lucky to have Salgado pushing not only to help others build careers but to mentor children through coaching and teaching them the skills they’ll need to work in team environments. 

“I hear other parents talk about Eric’s coaching style and how they love it. Each year is always the same (with)new parents asking for their kids to be on Eric’s basketball team,” Heredia said.