30+ years at True Value

Luis Fernandez, current manager at the Wasco True Value Hardware, has been with his employer for 30 years and looks forward to some changes in the near future.

“The owner has a meeting with an architectural firm about expanding the business another 500 square feet,” Fernandez stated. “We want to be able to carry more merchandise.” When they make the renovations, he is looking forward to celebrating with an official ribbon cutting ceremony.

According to Fernandez, True Value has been in Wasco since 1919 and was originally located on the lot that is now a park, on 7th Street across from Wasco Liquors. In 2001, when a fire destroyed the business, owner Shakir Shakir rebuilt it at 770 12th St., off Highway 46. Fernandez is unsure why they didn’t rebuild on 7th Street. “It may have had something to do with the city wanting a park in that location,” he said.

Luis Fernandez feels thankful for the continued support they have received from the City of Wasco since the fire. “We appreciate everyone who supported us and maintained their loyalty during that tough time.”

True Value supplies Wasco and nearby cities with lumber, hardware and tools, as well as building, electrical and plumbing materials. “We carry all types of tools, lumber, hardware and plumbing items such as toilets, flappers, etcetera, light switches, drills, etcetera. just about anything a contractor might need.”

Fernandez graduated from a trade school that taught electrical, plumbing and construction techniques and enjoys the opportunity of helping customers with their projects and make recommendations for the best results possible. “I enjoy talking with customers about their projects,” Fernandez said. “My best quality is problem solving.”

But as manager, Fernandez is also in charge of hiring employees and sees this as an opportunity to invest in people and help them grow to their full potential and search for the best opportunities. “I had an employee, one of my best, resign to take another job,” he said. “He came back to me and said the job wasn’t working for him. He asked if I would rehire him, and I had to tell him no. I suggested he return to the company where he was working and make it work, because there were better opportunities for him at that company.”

Fernandez wishes more young people would apply for jobs at local retail stores to get experience. “Employees learn many different types of skills while working here,” he said. “They can learn electrical, plumbing, hardware, concrete and gardening. This would help younger employees have a better opportunity for other positions in these fields.”

Wasco True Value Hardware is open seven days a week, Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.