As part of #Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re excited to highlight Carlos M. Rodriguez, our Senior Geosynthetics Engineer, whose #Colombian roots and passion for family and hard work have greatly influenced both his personal and professional life. We invite you to learn more about his journey, cultural influences, and the ways his heritage enriches our diverse team.
Q1. What aspects of your Hispanic culture are you most proud of?
A- The concept of family is extremely important. In my case, family is always my priority—not just my immediate family, but also my aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, etc.
Q2. How has your heritage influenced your personal and professional life?
A- My grandparents and parents always worked incredibly hard to provide the best for our family. I consider myself a hard worker too, and I'm passionate about what I do. I believe that strong work ethic and dedication came from them.
Q3. In your experience, how does HUESKER North America embrace and celebrate diversity?
A- It is already a big part of who we are. In our #Charlotte office, I work with people from North and South America, Africa, Asia, and other places. Diversity is just a natural part of our team and shows up in everything we do every day.
Q4. How do you think companies can further support and empower Hispanic employees?
A- Hispanic employees often face challenges like language barriers, cultural adaptation, and other limitations, but we also bring unique strengths to the table. I think the best way a company companies can support and empower Hispanic employees is by recognizing and leveraging our strengths while providing support in overcoming those challenges. By helping us navigate these limitations, the company can unlock our full potential and create an even more inclusive and productive environment.
Q5. How do you think your cultural background enhances the team dynamic at HUESKER?
A- I'm not sure if my cultural background enhances the team dynamic, but we definitely have a lot of fun working together! Plus, they need someone in the office to keep the conversation going about the "real" football!
Q6. What advice would you give to young Hispanic professionals entering the workforce?
A- You have everything you need to succeed. Adapting to a new culture takes time, but trust that you have all the tools to make it happen. Stay determined, be patient, and believe in yourself!
Q7. How has your career journey led you to your current position at HUESKER? A- I came to the U.S. after a short period of working at University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Soon after, I received a grant to pursue my Ph.D. studies. Before joining HUESKER, I went through many stages—exchange student, student, intern, student with a work permit, and more. It's been a long process, but through it all, I've been fortunate to have the unwavering support of my family and colleagues.
#geosynthetics #diversity #culture #hispanicheritage #engineer
Spanish Teacher at Universidad Nacional de Guinea Ecuatorial (National University of Equatorial Guinea)
1 个月Good morning. I am very happy for hear this and I would like to know how can I get job oportunities form your group. I am Daniel Owono SIMA NCHAMA; PHD in Spanish Philology with long experience in teaching Spanish as Foreign languages as well as other Spanish fileds. I coulb be very exited applying for a position there, please.....