Powerful Dreams: Meet the Tennessee Valley’s First Honduran Lineworker
At just 15 years old, Derian Morales made a life-altering decision. Leaving behind his home in Honduras, Morales headed to the United States in search of better opportunities for himself and his family. Today, as the first Honduran lineworker at Fayetteville Public Utilities (FPU) — and the first in the Tennessee Valley — Morales serves as an inspiring reminder that achieving a dream is not impossible when you work hard.
Morales’ acclimation to the United States took courage and commitment. After joining his father in Fayetteville, Tenn., he enrolled at Fayetteville High School and immediately set his sights on learning English, a crucial skill in his new country. “I was by myself with no friends, no way to communicate and very little money,” Morales shared. Determined to succeed, he dedicated himself to mastering the language, even carrying a dictionary with him to look up unfamiliar words — something he admits he still does to this day, always wanting to improve his ability to communicate in his new language.
After high school, Morales attended the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) in Shelbyville, where he enrolled in an automotive mechanics program. Although working part time at a fencing business and sending money home, Morales had bigger dreams. It wasn’t long before an opportunity arose at FPU, setting him on the path to a career he hadn’t imagined was possible.
From Tree Trimming to Linework
Initially hired as a shop worker at FPU, Morales later transferred to the right-of-way department working as a tree trimmer. But his ultimate goal was clear: He wanted to become a lineman. In 2020, he began his apprenticeship with FPU, a crucial first step toward achieving his dream of becoming a journeyman lineman in the United States. “It’s exciting to be the first person from Honduras to reach this milestone,” Morales remarked, reflecting on his journey.
Overcoming Challenges
Morales’ journey wasn’t without obstacles. Language and cultural barriers posed significant challenges, especially as he navigated technical training for his apprenticeship. FPU supported his transition, with co-workers helping interpret the written portions of his training, ensuring he could succeed despite the hurdles. “The team at FPU has welcomed me and treated me like any other employee,” Morales said. “They’ve helped me not just with the technical aspects of the job but with integrating into the team and the culture here.”
Making a Difference in the Community
Morales’ contributions to FPU go beyond his work ethic and technical abilities. As the community around Fayetteville sees an increase in Spanish-speaking residents, Morales’ bilingual skills have proven invaluable in helping serve customers. His presence also highlights the growing need for diversity in industries like utility services, where employees from varied backgrounds can bring unique perspectives and help their organizations better serve their communities. “We value the various perspectives all of our employees bring to the workplace,” said Britt Dye, FPU CEO and General Manager. “Derian has a good future as a lineman. He is a dedicated and dependable team member, not just at FPU but outside of work as well.”
An Inspiration for the Future
Derian Morales’ story is one of perseverance, determination and the power of dreams. It also reflects the changing demographics of the Tennessee Valley. His success serves as an inspiration not only to those from underrepresented backgrounds but to anyone striving to achieve their goals, step by step.
When asked what he would tell others facing big decisions, Morales offers simple but powerful advice: “If you have a chance, take it. If you have goals or dreams, nothing can stop you except yourself.”