Climbing has been a part of Sal Torres Jr.’s life since his father, Sal Torres Sr., played a key role in creating the climbing program for Caltrans District 2 during the 1990s. Initially, rock climbing was not an official training program but developed from geologists’ need to assess unstable rock faces. Sal Sr. also designed rockfall protection systems and became interested in the hands-on work after seeing crews install his designs on cliffs.
“My dad turned a hobby into part of his profession by using his engineering background to understand how to keep people safe on the slopes,” said Sal. “It was cool to watch that evolution and be part of it.”
Sal grew up accompanying his father to Kingvale, gaining experience along the way. When an opportunity arose for a climbing instructor apprentice, he naturally fit into the role. Today, he is one of two active climbing instructors in District 2 and among the youngest certified instructors in California.
However, Caltrans climbing differs from recreational rock climbing. “Most people associate climbing with going up,” explained Sal. “With our climbing team, we focus on controlled descents. We rappel into areas hit by slides.” The job requires physical strength and mental acuity, which is why training courses are essential for equipping climbers with necessary skills.
Following the tragic deaths of Shawn Baker and Robert Jones on State Route 96 in 2013, District 2 paused its climbing program temporarily. Recently, efforts led by Sal and Superintendent Richard Byers have revitalized it by gathering gear for certified climbers and organizing refresher courses focused on new safety protocols.
Currently, around 30 climbers from various maintenance crews in District 2 are certified to handle rockslides and slope hazards effectively. Roads such as State Route 96, 70, and 299 benefit significantly from trained climbers due to their steep canyon walls.
“Nature is always going to do its thing: winter storms, loose rocks, landslides,” said Sal. “Our teams can go up there, climb the slopes, and remove hazards without risk.” This approach prevents costly realignments each time.
The presence of climbers becomes crucial following major weather events when trained maintenance workers monitor roadways for potential rockfalls or debris threats that could endanger travelers.
“It’s an honor to be an instructor,” stated Sal. “Not everyone passes the course; it takes skill, strength, and the right mindset.”
For those interested in becoming climbers within Caltrans Maintenance programs like this one offer opportunities for dedicated individuals willing to take on high-stakes work challenges head-on under guidance provided by experienced professionals like himself who view their roles with pride: “It’s a cool spot that I’m super lucky to be in.”
