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Alberto Salinas: A Forestry Operator with Family Roots and a Passion for Wood
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At Acoforag, we highlight the story of Alberto Salinas, a forestry operator whose life is marked by hard work, love for his family, and a deep connection with wood and the countryside.
"I started, being the eldest, by helping my father in the fields," recalls Alberto. That early experience brought him closer to working the land and the collective effort of the family. Later, he studied at the Escuela Industrial de Chillán, where he trained as a mechanical technician. For a few years, he practiced that trade, but he confesses he always had a pending dream: to become a truck driver.
The Road to the Driver's Seat
"I always liked driving, and becoming a truck driver was my childhood dream," he says proudly. The first twelve years of his working life were spent traveling routes to Santiago, transporting wood. On those trips, he not only enjoyed the freedom of the road but also the contact with people and the stories shared along the way.
Handcrafted Construction
Wood has been a fundamental part of his life. He recalls how, making use of the leftover pieces he transported, he gathered planks and beams to build his own house:
"With all that raw wood, I put everything together myself. I’ve always tried to keep it artisanal, without using any metal, because I love wood." That appreciation for simplicity and handmade work is reflected in every corner of his home.
Family Pride
Alberto’s life is not only defined by work. He also highlights the role of his wife, who maintains a garden with chard, parsley, mint, and other plants that enrich the family table. "In the afternoon, I wait for her here with something special, with a nice little 'once' (light evening meal)," he shares.
The couple’s greatest pride are their three children, all professionals raised with values of unity and hard work. "We’ve been a very close family, always together in everything. That’s where my fortune lies," he concludes emotionally.
The story on our Youtube channel:
