Celebrating 16 Years: A Continuing Journey with WHD

Wildalí Lugo De Jesús is the Wage and Hour Division ’s Southeast deputy regional administrator in Orlando, Florida. We chatted with her recently to kick off a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month with one of the agency's best and brightest.

Q: How long have you worked for the Wage and Hour Division?

I’ve been with the agency for 16 years.

Q: What does your job entail? ?

Over the past three years, I served as a district director in Orlando, Florida. I supervised managers, represented the office at the regional and national level, ensured procedures were followed, and optimized staff and tools for performance measures. As a newly appointed deputy regional administrator of the Southeast Regional Office, I'll support the region's vision by supervising some district directors and regional office staff in 10 district offices across several states.

Q: Who inspired your career choice?

My dad's long career in public service, where he supervised for the Puerto Rico Highway Authority, instilled in me a deep appreciation for politics, government and public service. Additionally, having a sister with a disability made me acutely aware of the importance of good health insurance. During a college internship with the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) at the U.S. Coast Guard 's Civil Rights Division in Washington D.C., my supervisor encouraged me to pursue a master's degree in public administration and a federal government career. I've always been drawn to missions centered on service.

Q: What’s the best advice you can give to someone who just started their career?

Focus on your organization’s mission, be patient with the learning process, ask questions, trust your instincts and don’t shrink yourself to make others comfortable.

Q: Describe some of the challenges you’ve faced. How did you overcome them?

When I first came to the mainland U.S. for college, I knew some English, but it was challenging to communicate clearly in this new language. People sometimes didn't see me as smart because my English wasn't perfect. To improve, I had to think in English rather than translating to Spanish in my head, and I sought help from the writing center and mentors. This experience has made me empathetic to anyone learning a new language like English, which can be very tough to master.

Q: In terms of successes, which accomplishments are you most proud of?

Personally, being a mom to two amazing and unique daughters. Professionally, fostering collaboration and innovation in the Orlando District Office, leading to outstanding performance and morale.

Q: Who are some of your biggest inspirations within the agency?

So many! I’ve always looked up to Southwest Regional Administrator Betty Campbell for her natural leadership and the Southeast Regional Administrator Juan Coria’s people-focused approach. Working under Deputy Regional Administrator Frank McGriggs showed me a leader who communicates well, listens and values feedback.

#HispanicHeritage #InclusionAndDiversity #HispanicHeritageMonth