SIM Member Spotlight

Eliot Rodriguez is a new SIM member who joined earlier this year and jumped into leadership with the South Florida chapter, currently serving on its board of directors and as chair of the Membership Committee. We asked Eliot to share his SIM experience and how the society has helped him “Connect, Lead, Give” as an IT professional, as well as his thoughts relative to Hispanic Heritage Month.

?So far it has been an exciting journey participating in SIM.?I’m always excited to meet new people and exchange ideas on all things technology/business. SIM provides a great way to seek out like minded individuals with a wealth of knowledge in various areas.

?SIM also provides various informative programs that help emerging leaders navigate through various emergent technology topics. SIM is focused on immersive learning and the development of peer connections that are important in the continual development & empowerment of leaders in the industry.?

?Eliot has found SIM to be a great way to give back, as well:

?SIM provides unique opportunities for professional growth, development and giving back to the community. SIM South Florida has been active in its efforts to serve, including supporting initiatives like Code Palm Beach, Woman in Code and, most recently, Hurricane Ian relief efforts.

?We also asked Eliot about the under-representation of the Hispanic community in the technology field as a whole, and in the C-suite in particular, and how SIM might help.

In 2021, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that Hispanic/Latino minorities are ranked among the lowest in employment within the technology industry. The tech industry can do better by ensuring that proper educational opportunities/ sponsorships for technology bootcamps, collegiate STEM programs and technical certification are being provided to underrepresented minorities. There are so many wonderful and brilliant people that lack the necessary resources to grow professionally. Even something as simple as providing mentorship to the underrepresented minorities goes a long way. Finally, for organizations to continue to recognize the benefits and adopt Diverse, Equity and Inclusive practices in both the hiring process & workplace environment.

?Eliot also had some interesting things to say about the career boosts he has had along the way and who those who have been his mentors and biggest supporters.

?I owe my successes to every interaction and experience I’ve had whether challenging or positive. Every encounter brings insights that have the power to propel you in your career if you listen. One of my greatest teachers in life has been failure. Setting emotions aside, failure teaches you what it means and takes to be successful. I unashamedly admit that I have learned volumes throughout my experience with failure. I also owe a great deal of my success to my mother who has always taught me that practice makes perfect, that you pick yourself back up when you fall, and that through creativity there is always a solution.?

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?Are you a SIM member who would you like to be featured in an upcoming SIM Member Profile? Or would you like to nominate a fellow SIM member to be profiled? Email us at [email protected].