Richard Enciso BacaLongest continuously working employee with a Single Agency

DEMING – The New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT) recognized Richard Baca for over 50 years of continuous employment with NMDOT and as the longest continuously working State of New Mexico employee. Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham honored this accomplishment with a proclamation.

Thursday, March 28, 2024 is now officially known as "Richard Enciso Baca Day" via a proclamation issued and signed by Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham.

Baca is currently employed at the District One Sign Shop as a Highway Maintenance Worker-Advanced. He calls the NMDOT his "home," and he is incredibly happy to be a member of the team. 

"Richard began working as a summer temp utility worker on July 6, 1971, and eventually followed in his father's footsteps and joined NMDOT full time on May 30, 1973. His story and his tenure with the agency is emblematic of the culture of NMDOT," said Ricky Serna, Cabinet Secretary.  He continued, "His work ethic and longevity truly represent what sets NMDOT apart from all other agencies, we could not be more grateful to celebrate Rick and his time with NMDOT."

During the annual District One awards ceremony for the department Lt. Governor Howie Morales read the proclamation on behalf of the Governor honoring Baca with his own day, March 28, 2024.

"District employees coming together to support one of our own, Rick Baca, in reaching such a great milestone with the NMDOT was indicative of the type of family and culture we have here in District One" said Aaron Chavarria District Engineer. He continued, "I cannot thank you all enough for being such a great team and making District One a great place to work every day."

Baca is a native New Mexican born and raised in Deming. Following in his father's footsteps, he started his career with the department in May of 1973. Receiving multiple promotions along the way. He currently works in the District One Sign Shop and is responsible for creating and producing roadway signs that have been utilized all over the State of New Mexico. Even those most recently seen on our named Snowplow Trucks. 

Baca has worked continuously for over 50 years and has ensured the safety of countless members of the traveling public. Becoming the longest, continuous employee of the State of New Mexico, his exceptional commitment to the NMDOT stands as a model of employment and is symbolic of what makes the New Mexico State government family remarkable.