Employee of the Month: Henry Trochez, THP+FC Case Manager
How long have you been with EA? What roles have you had? 
I was hired on February 26 to be the first Lead Care Manager for the Cal Aim program for the Bakersfield Office. I am now part of the THP+FC Case management team here in the Bakersfield Office.
What originally made you want to work with EA?
I worked with the developmentally disabled population for 17 years and needed to experience something new that would challenge me daily. My previous employer was an STRTP facility where I was hired as the activity coordinator. After a few months I was promoted to the administrator position which is where I found my true passion working with the foster youth during their bad days and good days. And now, I'm with a company that provides me the adventure of a lifetime. I applied with EA because it provides me the opportunity to continue supporting our youth in a different capacity that still allows me to be a role model and guide for youths leaving the system. I could not ask for a better job and a company that sees their employees for what they are: valuable.
Describe what your best day on the job looks like:
I would say that my best day at work would have to consist of a chaotic and stressful day of never ending calls and emergencies. I prefer to be on the go and busy than not.
What do you wish people knew about working in your field?
I wish people knew how great 18–21 year old kids can be if they were just given the opportunity to show the community their talents, their dreams, their ability to be just like everyone else and not be treated differently. I wish our communities would remove the labels and replace them with their names, because they deserve to be called by their names.
How do you practice self care?
For the most part I spend time with my husband James, and Tylor who is a 32-year-old young man with Downs Syndrome who lives with us and our dogs. I also spend a lot of time with family and taking care of our yards.
What's a hidden talent you have, or something about yourself that would surprise most people?
I can cook, bake, smoke meat, and I do not look my age!
Anything else you'd like to add?
I'm happy to be part of this wonderful family and look forward to being here for a very, very, very long time.