I started working at Luby's when I was 18 years old. A new Luby's had opened here in El Paso, and I applied as a busboy. I quickly discovered that I loved the restaurant business. I liked meeting new people, taking care of guests and being part of a team. Little by little, I moved up. I became a supervisor, and on August 18, I'll celebrate 25 years as a General Manager and 38 years with Luby's. That's a long time, but I can honestly say I have no regrets. I love what I do.

One of the people who encouraged me early in my career was a manager named Ray Alvarez. He pushed me to become a supervisor and showed me that I could grow with Luby's. Now I try to encourage the people coming up behind me. I tell them the truth: this business is hard work. Some days you might have to wash dishes. Some days you're short-handed and everybody has to jump in. You do whatever needs to be done. But it can also be a great career. You meet people, make friends and become part of a community.

I'm especially proud of my team. Some of our employees have been with Luby's for 35 or even 38 years. When things get busy, everybody jumps in and helps. And when I come in each day, I make a point to greet everyone. If somebody doesn't seem like themselves, we might sit down and have a little coffee talk. I want to know how they're doing.

I'm pretty much the same way outside of work. Everybody knows that if they need something, they can call Santos and I'll figure it out. I work on cars, paint, do electrical work and tackle just about any DIY project someone puts in front of me. I also have a collection of old vehicles, including a 1973 Nova, a '64 Volkswagen and a '67 Cutlass convertible.

I've played baseball since I was about four years old, and I still play softball with my brother. I'm not very good at sitting still. I also enjoy helping our community through the Cielo Vista Neighborhood Association, whether it's a park cleanup, supporting seniors or helping provide food for a local event.

After nearly four decades with Luby's, my wife jokes that everywhere we go, somebody knows me. She's right. And I wouldn't have it any other way. Luby's is my future for as long as I can keep doing it.

And if you see me going through the line, I'll probably be getting the enchiladas. They're my favorite.