Yvonne, Heavy Equipment Operator

Doing the heavy lifting. 


Yvonne says respect is the name of the game.

Yvonne says respect is the name of the game.

Yvonne works in the EBMUD pipeline construction and equipment division, operating heavy equipment to dig out trenches for new water mains. Working with a team of plumbers, truck drivers and welders, Yvonne may dig out 80 to 200 feet of trench daily so pipe can be lowered in. Once the new main is installed and pressure testing and chlorination is completed, she works to backfill the trench and make sure it’s the right depth for other EBMUD staff to pave at the end of the day.

During her 17 years with EBMUD, Yvonne says she’s been encouraged to move ahead in her career. With support from the District she has taken classes in subjects including math and interview skills.

On being one of only a few women in her profession, Yvonne says: “I’m a little outnumbered! When I’m operating the equipment out in the field, people who see me don’t always realize there’s a woman on the excavator or loader. They’re often surprised, but I just do my job and go about my business."

“I get along well with everybody and I’m treated well. There’s a lot of respect on the job.”