From Soldier to Software Developer: How ALPFA Has Shaped My Career Journey

My name is Michael Soto Gomez, and I am an Army veteran currently working as an app developer. My journey has not always been easy, but thanks to the support of my family, friends, and the communities that have lifted me along the way, I’ve continued to push forward. Growing up as a first-generation Latino, I sometimes felt like I had to figure everything out on my own, especially as I pursued new professional opportunities. But through ALPFA, I discovered that there was a community ready to help me succeed—I didn’t have to go it alone.

When I was 17, joining the military wasn’t in my plans, but the drive to become something greater was always there. The military introduced me to a series of firsts: my first time on a plane, my first time traveling alone, and, hardest of all, the first time being away from my family and community. Raised in a Mexican household, I learned early on the importance of family and community, and being on my own was a challenge that required resilience. The physical demands of the military were real, but it was the mental tests that shaped my character the most.

Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience

My time in the military wasn’t without its rewards. Even in a new environment, the perseverance instilled in me by my parents helped me connect with others and build professional relationships. Working in satellite communications, software development, and cybersecurity, I was surrounded by mentors and peers who supported my growth. With their guidance, I overcame the isolation I felt and started to thrive.

Today, I’m a software development analyst and a computer science student at DePaul University. In both spaces, the representation of the Latino community is limited. The lack of diversity in my classrooms and workplace can feel isolating, making it challenging to find peers and colleagues who share my experiences and cultural background.

How ALPFA Empowered My Career and Confidence

During my first year in the tech industry, I took the initiative to meet more people, which led me to ALPFA’s chapter at my workplace. After connecting with the chapter leader, I realized that ALPFA was the professional family I had been looking for. The ALPFA community reminded me that I wasn’t alone on this journey. Through ALPFA, I found a network of people who not only share similar backgrounds and ambitions but who have also faced many of the same challenges. They became my ALPFAmilia, making me feel truly seen and heard in a corporate environment that sometimes feels isolating.

Attending the regional student symposium and ALPFA Convention 2024 was transformative. I created meaningful connections that have become an essential part of my network and expanded my professional opportunities. Through these events, I connected with recruiters and professionals from other companies, who I continue to interact with and maintain relationships with. In a world where networking is key, ALPFA has given me the support I needed to navigate my career path confidently, surrounded by a community that believes in me.