About us

Our Foundation

At Parra Environmental Training, we’re redefining the way safety and environmental training is delivered. Our founder, Hermes Parra, began his journey as a laborer in asbestos abatement, then a field technician in environmental consulting before discovering his passion for teaching. While working as a safety instructor, Hermes noticed a common issue—training materials were outdated and delivery was uninspiring.

Determined to make a difference, Hermes returned to environmental consulting in 2016 to refine his vision. In 2018, fueled by a commitment to deliver engaging, high-quality training, he founded Parra Environmental Training.

At Parra Environmental Training, we don’t just teach; we offer “Training Done Right.”

 

Parra Environmental Training Now Managing FACS Training in the California Bay Area

FACS Training Joins Parra Environmental

In January 2023, Forensic Analytical Consulting Services (FACS) entrusted Hermes and the Parra Environmental team with managing their training department. This partnership is a testament to our dedication to delivering accurate, innovative, and impactful training that sets industry standards.

Bay Area environmental training
Hermes sharing a classic comic featuring the Human torch vs. Asbestos Man

OUR FOUNDER & TRAINING DIRECTOR

Hermes Parra is an environmental health and safety instructor specializing in training abatement and consulting industry professionals on correctly identifying, handling, and disposing of asbestos, lead, and other hazardous materials according to the presiding environmental regulatory agencies in California and elsewhere federally.

Hermes was introduced to the hazardous materials industry by his father in 2006 when he began working as a laborer for a large abatement firm in the SF Bay Area. In 2008, Hermes worked as a field technician for environmental consulting firms and performed project oversight, asbestos, and lead surveys. In 2011, Hermes took up an opportunity as an instructor and has been training ever since.

Hermes is recognized for his unique and refreshing teaching style and is regarded by many as the best in the business. His approach to training stems from his natural sense of humor, hours of research on the topics he teaches, and his hands-on experience. He is accredited by Cal-OSHA, DOSH, CDPH, and the EPA and maintains a current Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC) certification.

Outside of training, Hermes is a family man who enjoys cooking, hanging out with his toddler, and watching football. He is a known hip-hop head with an extensive stash of CDs he’s been collecting for over 25 years. 

HEAD OF OPERATIONS

Priscilla Parra manages the behind-the-scenes operations at Parra Environmental Training, working closely with our administration team to keep everything running smoothly. From student support to course coordination, she helps ensure every backend detail reflects our standard: Training Done Right.

She is an American Red Cross Certified CPR/AED/First Aid Instructor and serves as Vice President and Board Member of the Northern California Chapter of the Environmental Information Association (EIA).

Priscilla joined the Parra family in 2014 and stepped into managing PET operations in 2022. Outside of work, she hosts The Ambitious AF Podcast, volunteers with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Contra Costa County, and enjoys singing, reading, and continuous learning.

Ramon Parra, an Asbestos, Lead, Hazardous Materials and Construction Safety Instructor, Bay Area environmental training holding his grandbaby
Ramon and Aaron Parra 2021

MASTER INSTRUCTOR

Ramon Parra has been teaching Asbestos, Lead, Hazardous Materials and other Construction Safety courses since 2005. Prior to teaching environmental health and safety courses, Ramon’s extensive experience comes as a laborer, supervisor, superintendent and a safety office for asbestos/lead abatement firms dating back to 1988. 

Ramon has been recognized as an engaging instructor, who infuses real life experiences into his lessons. Additionally, he also teaches in Spanish, making him one of the few instructors in all of California who can offer such a diverse range of courses.

When Ramon is not teaching, he enjoys visiting and spoiling his grandson. He also enjoys dancing Cumbia and other latin music with his wife, and leads a latin dance group called Club del Monton.

TEMPORARY TRAFFIC CONTROL/ATTSA MASTER INSTRUCTOR

Esteban Moreno is a seasoned expert and consultant in Temporary Traffic Control (TTC), with over a decade of hands-on experience and a designation as an ATSSA Master Instructor.

Esteban began his career in TTC in 2013 with Bay Area Traffic Solutions (BATS), where he spent six years sharpening his expertise and developing a deep-seated passion for teaching proper TTC standards, guidelines, and best practices.

Outside of work, Esteban and his sons are active participants in the Boy Scouts of America, embracing the values of the Scout Oath through camping, hiking, and outdoor ventures. He cherishes family moments, particularly around the Christmas season, and enjoys unwinding with a good movie

Bay Area environmental training

Expanded Safety Certifications in CA & NV

As of January 1, 2023, Parra Environmental Training proudly became the new home of all training operations previously offered by FACS Training. This strategic transition unites two respected leaders in the environmental health & safety (EH&S) training space—ensuring continuity, expertise, and a commitment to excellence.

Clients who previously trained with FACS will find the same trusted instructors, improved scheduling flexibility, and an expanded catalog of Cal/OSHA, CDPH, and EPA-approved certification courses—all now offered through Parra Environmental Training’s streamlined platform.

Together, we’re building the next chapter in environmental safety education—delivering engaging training that meets today’s complex compliance challenges.