Noble REMC wouldn’t be successful without our employees and directors. To highlight the work that they do, we’ve launched Lighting the Way to place a spotlight on those who help the co-op thrive.
In her 13 years at Noble REMC, Elena Vargas has seen it all. She’s gone from interacting with our members as a cashier and receptionist, to now helping our employees and board of directors as our administrative assistant.
She juggles everything without dropping a beat — whether it’s human resources, payroll and accounts payable or handling the needs of our employees and directors.
Elena is the go-to for any and all questions, but now it’s time for her to answer a few questions of our own.
What brought you to the co-op and motivated you to work here?
“I used to work with a former employee’s wife. She would always say how her husband loved to work at the co-op and if I ever had the opportunity to get in, to do so. So when she heard there’d be an opening soon, she let me know.”
What’s your favorite part of your job?
“Talking with people. I enjoy them coming into my office to talk about anything, and I like helping them with anything they need, either personally or work-related.”
What do you like to do outside of the co-op?
“I help a lot at my church with anything that might come up. Recently, I’ve helped make freezer meals to help foster families. Wherever I might help, I volunteer. Besides that, I’m a busy mom of a 16-year-old and 11-year-old. It’s just go, go, go. There’s always something, having kids.”
What are you most proud of in your life?
“I’m most proud of the opportunities I’ve had presented to me as an individual. I was not born here, but I was raised here. I thank my parents for making that hard decision of moving from a different county to the U.S. It’s been great. I love being here,
I love the people. It’s a place that I’m glad to raise my own kids.”
Favorite movie?
“I am a big fan of Selena (Quintanilla-Pérez), so when her movie came out … I could watch it again right now and enjoy it like it was the first time I was watching it. It was a good representation of Selena. When I was younger, I listened to her music — I mean, I memorized every single song — so I was heartbroken when she died.”
Favorite TV show?
“I am weird in this area. I love watching Dr. Pimple Popper and all of the shows that have to do with skin conditions. You name it. There are so many shows — I could list them all — and go on and on.”
What is something surprising or interesting about you?
“I asked my kids this question. They said, ‘You’re OCD, mom.’ I love to clean. That de-stresses me.”
