Carlos joined Bennett Water Systems’ irrigation crew in the fall of 2015. His background in the agriculture industry helped him adjust and learn quickly. Many days were spent installing pipe or drip lines and pouring concrete. In 2016, an opening became available in the Lemoore warehouse and Carlos jumped on the opportunity. Another opportunity would be presented to Carlos in 2017: gopher management. Though this was new territory for Carlos, he once again dove in headfirst ready to take on this new adventure. Now, Carlos divides his time between 15 fields managing both gopher and squirrel populations for our growers. This includes setting/checking traps, clearing/knocking down mounds and eliminating the rodent issue. Though his job may seem like an uphill battle some days Carlos loves what he does, and it truly shows. As a one-man-band, he has become a dependable source for our growers who they can trust.

Born and raised in Lemoore, Carlos was at the center of our nation’s breadbasket as he grew up watching his mother and father work in the fields. At the age of 12, he started his first job picking grapes alongside his parents. His interest in agriculture only grew from here, and after graduating from Lemoore High School he immediately began working for Sun-Maid. He was a machine operator at the time and steadily made his way through the ranks. As his fascination of agricultural operations increased, Carlos later found himself at J.G. Boswell working with their ground and tomato harvesting teams. His dedication and positivity would eventually lead him to Bennett Water Systems where he has been a great addition to our team ever since.

Carlos’ motto in life? Stay humble and kind. For him, that means working in his yard or on cars, riding bikes, walking his Pitbull—King—and above all, family time. He cherishes the little things in life which means he takes any and every opportunity to do things with his family and his wife, Erica. He has six children—Sabrina (21), Mya (20), Carlos (16), Eli (10), Maylene (9) and Jay (7)—and a beautiful granddaughter named Malina. There is never a dull moment spent with the Lopez family.

Carlos is excited about the family he has gained because of the merger.

We’re now a huge family and have so many opportunities laying at our feet. I have met so many great people since the merger that have allowed us to continually grow together as a company.”