What important skills did you learn that have been instrumental to your success?

The most important thing I learned was teamwork. I learned this working on the farms. As farm workers, we cleaned out cotton fields and cornfields. We helped each other when someone was falling behind and we were always aware of each other Also, I learned to keep a positive attitude. You have to maintain this attitude no matter what you do, whether it be working as a farmer or as a corporate executive.

 

How do you use these skills in your position today?

In every job I am always aware of who is a part of my team. Working on the farms taught me to be cognizant of who is a part of my team and who needs mentoring. I take this from job to job. Teamwork is important in any job.

 

Did anyone ever give you advice that you carried on with you in your career?

I learned by example from my parents, who taught me that education is key. We only did farm work as long as it didn’t interfere with school. My parents worked hard their whole lives and now own a small store. This taught me the entrepreneurial spirit. You have to create your own opportunities.

 

What obstacles have you experienced on your career path?

When I first started working the largest obstacle for me was not having a mentor. Breaking into a career path is hard when you don’t have one. This is a huge factor in the Hispanic culture. I was the first in my family to attend college. This was definitely an obstacle.

 

What motivated you to succeed?

The number one factor was that I did not want to remain a farm worker. I did learn valuable lessons, but I wanted to provide for my family and give them a better life. I wanted my family to have an education and learn the necessary skills to move up the career ladder.

 

What advice would you give to a young person starting his or her career?

Broaden your education beyond what you think your career path will be. Be involved in all sorts of activities. You have to cast a big net, only then can you know what you’re capable of doing. Expose yourself to as much as you can. This is the only way you can know what you’re passionate about. Get involved in everything. Work with a mission and have a goal. You have to have IT in you.