The Lighthouse

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Jun 2024

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Lighting the path to success. Hispanic & Latin leaders from across the digital infrastructure industry tell their path to success and everything it took to get where they are at today.

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10 recent

June 24, 20241 hr 9 min

EP 9: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech with Alex Cantu

Alex Cantu, CEO of Layer 9 Data Centers, shares his journey from Mexican banking to the U.S. data center industry, emphasizing the value of adaptability and embracing cultural differences for professional growth on The Lighthouse podcast. Also discussed is the importance of mentorship, cultural adaptation, and knowledge-sharing for individuals transitioning between Latin American and US work environments, showcasing the power of vulnerability and empathy in fostering understanding in a diverse world. Chapters 0:00 Introduction 5:43 Exploring Career Journey 8:12 Entrepreneurial Venture: Layer 9 8:36 Reflecting on Upbringing 10:04 Transition from Finance to Industrial Sector 11:16 Adaptability in Career Transitions 19:00 Navigating Cultural Differences 23:46 Cultural Norms in Communication 29:08 Impact of Cultural Differences on Projects 35:17 Blending Western and Latin American Cultures 38:32 Working in Latin America vs. Working in the States 53:19 Mentorship and Navigating Different Countries 1:02:26 Advice for Young Professionals Entering the Industry 1:04:05 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt 1:07:16 Overcoming Cultural Pride and Vulnerability

June 3, 20241 hr 7 min

EP8: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech with Pablo Duro

Pablo Duro, Executive Director - Bovis, shares his journey from Argentina to managing projects in Mexico on The Lighthouse. He discusses his family's construction background, experiences in the fluctuating construction industry in Argentina, and about mentorship, building data centers, advice for newcomers in construction, and the significance of proactive project management. Chapters 0:09 Introduction 3:39 Building Experience in Argentina 10:57 Pursuing Excellence and Management Philosophy 14:46 Importance of Company Culture 20:47 Importance of Reading in English 31:49 Dealing with Imposter Syndrome 37:58 Learning from Mentors 46:17 Mentorship Programs 51:12 Working in Latin America 57:12 Working in the US as a Latin American 1:04:01 Soccer Preferences and Surprises 1:04:13 Advice for Those Entering the Industry

May 20, 20241 hr 35 min

EP7: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech with Alberto Laris Pacheco

In this episode of The Lighthouse podcast, we are joined by Alberto Laris Pacheco, the founder of Gaya.. Alberto shares insights into his journey from architect to successful entrepreneur, emphasizing quality, global standards, and the growth of Gaia with a 160-person team. Reflecting on his upbringing and diverse experiences, including studying in the US and working in Paris, Alberto discusses the impact of mentorship, collaboration, and familial values on his career. He delves into Mexican culture, hiring practices, and ethical business operations, offering inspirational advice for pursuing passions, entrepreneurship, and mentorship.

April 30, 20241 hr 30 min

EP6: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech with Nilson Goes

This week on the Light House, we spoke with Nilson Goez, President and CEO of IEC Engineering and Construction. Nilsson shares his family's journey from Brazil to the U.S. while highlighting the importance of trust and resilience. He discusses his company's growth, the positive impact of internships, and his professional experiences. Reflecting on managing non-federal hospital systems and the value of mentorship, Nilsson emphasizes community engagement and his upcoming role in the Young President's Organization. Chapters 0:00 Introduction 11:22 Moving to the U.S. 17:58 Starting IEC Engineering and Construction 23:18 Learning English and Cultural Assimilation 28:16 Internship and Career Trajectory 31:17 Logical Decisions and Moving to Texas 32:05 Impact of Internship Program 38:38 Reflections on College Experience 42:58 The Impact of Immigrant Families 54:10 Transitioning to Family Business 59:59 Making Changes and Taking Initiatives 1:10:12 Involvement and Growth in Various Organizations 1:22:20 Future Goals and Professional Development

April 9, 20241 hr 31 min

EP5: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech w Armando Aguilar

In this episode of The Lighthouse podcast , Armando Aguilar, Regional Leader at Structura Inc, shares his inspiring journey as a Hispanic and Latino leader, tracing his path from a small village in Mexico to success as a regional manager in the construction industry. Reflecting on personal experiences, the speaker discusses challenges faced as a first-generation college student, the importance of mentorship, and embracing Hispanic heritage in a diverse field. Insights on leveraging language skills, navigating immigration experiences, and fostering cultural identity in the face of discrimination resonate throughout the conversation. Chapters 0:00 The Lighthouse: Platform for Hispanic and Latino Leaders 4:55 Childhood in Mexico: Innocence and Humble Beginnings 10:20 Growing Up in Chicago: Challenges and Discoveries 18:28 College Dreams: Imposter Syndrome and Choices 21:59 Overcoming Self-Doubt: Embracing Opportunities 26:13 Minority in Construction: Navigating Challenges 28:56 Drive from Adversity: Turning Pressure into Motivation 40:08 Navigating Immigration Waters48:05 Embracing Identity and Name 54:36 Owning Your Hispanic Identity 1:00:19 Discovering Mentors and Mentorship Approach 1:05:11 Management Styles and Motivating Teams 1:07:38 Impactful Mentorship Stories and Lessons 1:09:46 Importance of Internships for Career Path 1:15:52 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Through Transparency 1:23:16 Encouraging Community Involvement and Mentorship 1:30:35 World Cup Loyalty: Green or Black Jersey?

March 25, 20241 hr 23 min

EP4: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech w Freddy Padilla

In this episode of The Lighthouse, Freddy Padilla shares his journey from Puerto Rico to a successful engineering career, overcoming challenges with family support and perseverance. Reflecting on the role of mentorship, Freddy and the host emphasize the importance of resilience, learning, and community support in achieving success in the engineering industry. Chapters 0:00 Introduction to Freddy Padilla 9:46 Exploring Freddy's childhood in Naranjito, Puerto Rico 18:20 Facing language barriers and academic challenges in university 24:50 Transitioning to life outside of Puerto Rico and job search 28:10 Job Search Struggles 30:41 Language Learning Challenges 34:50 Mentorship and Career Growth 36:41 Impactful Mentors 42:43 Transitioning and Family Decisions 46:45 Returning to Puerto Rico 49:10 Career Advancement in Construction 54:37 Transition to Design Industry 56:07 Job Offers and Decision Making 58:52 Joining Page - A Career Shift 1:09:30 Overcoming Challenges with Communication 1:12:16 Facing Discrimination and Overcoming 1:15:57 Fostering a Sense of Community 1:17:14 Career Advice for Young Engineers 1:21:06 Final Thoughts and Advice

March 11, 20241 hr 44 min

EP3: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech w Osvaldo Morales!

In this episode, Osvaldo Morales, Officer, Infrastructure for Denvr Dataworks, shares his journey from Chile to Canada, emphasizing the influence of family and education on his success. We discuss adapting to new environments, leadership dynamics, and fostering a culture of learning. Osvaldo shares Insights on challenges in data centers, aligning skills with company vision, and Latin community values. The conversation highlights collaboration, diversity in hiring, and innovation at Denver DataWorks. We also touch on managing data centers, mentorship, problem-solving, and perseverance in career development, encouraging listeners to seek mentorship for success. Chapters: 0:00:00 Introduction and Background 0:01:43 Childhood in Chile and Immigration 0:08:17 Career Aspirations and University Choices 0:16:25 Identity and Cultural Experience in Canada 0:26:13 Leadership and Inclusivity at Amazon 0:28:18 Cultural Adjustments in Corporate Environment 0:32:16 Importance of Innovation in Tech Industry 0:35:20 Embracing Diversity at Denver Data Works 0:43:45 The Importance of Listening to Feedback 1:04:47 The Art of Delegating Effectively 1:09:41 Embracing Diversity in Education and Workforce 1:18:42 Building a Supportive and Diverse Team 1:30:30 Hockey Fandom and Career Insights 1:38:04 Reaching Out and Mentorship

February 9, 20241 hr 38 min

EP2: Hispanic and Latin Representation in Tech w Noemi Cherrez Velasco and Madeline Vega

In this episode of the Lighthouse Podcast, host Alfonso Portillo welcomes Noemi Cherrez Velasco of AWS, Madeline Vega of NVIDIA. They discuss their experiences with language, accent, and representation in the tech industry. They emphasize the importance of pursuing passion, supporting diversity, and overcoming challenges. The conversation ends with gratitude and well-wishes.The views and opinions expressed during these discussions are those of the individual and do not represent those of their employers Visit www.hola-data.org Visit https://www.linkedin.com/company/hola-digital-infrastructure/ Chapters: 0:00:10 Introduction and Mission of The Lighthouse Podcast 0:02:33 Bilingual Upbringing and Language Skills Development 0:11:11 Encouraging High School Students to Explore Career Opportunities 0:27:19 Diversity in Puerto Rico and Feeling like a Minority 0:35:14 Importance of Soft Skills and Connections 0:39:08 The subtle differences of women and men on teams 0:46:23 The Importance of Networking for Young Professionals 0:53:42 Cultural Differences and Adjustments in the Workplace 1:06:30 Struggles and sacrifices of work and travel 1:17:05 Balancing Work and Parenthood with Cultural Flexibility 1:27:04 The Importance of Mentoring and Trust in the Learning Process 1:28:20 Bringing Others Along and Paying It Forward 1:31:25 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 1:37:19 The Importance of Mentorship and Support

February 9, 20241 hr 41 min

EP1: Highlighting Hispanic and Latino Leaders in the Data Center Industry

In this first episode of the Lighthouse podcast, we have a two-part episode, discussing our organization Hola Data, and we introduce The Lighthouse podcast featuring Hispanic and Latino leaders in the data center industry. We emphasize the need for equal representation, education, and opportunities. Join us as we strive to make a difference and inspire others. Visit www.hola-data.org Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hola-digital-infrastructure/ Chapters 0:00:10 Christmas Tradition in Cidra, Puerto Rico 0:03:37 Introductions: Alejandro Cantú, Jose Ruiz, and Freddy Padilla 0:10:06 From College to Austin: My Path and Passion for One Lines 0:14:02 Alfonso's Journey: From Electrical Engineering to Construction 0:23:13 Resilient Culture and the North meets the South 0:27:21 Spreading Awareness of the Data Center Industry 0:37:36 Highlighting the Multiple Disciplines in Data Center Construction 0:40:26 Empowering the Latin and Hispanic community through education 0:43:24 Creating a platform to match industry professionals with jobs 0:47:10 Exposing people to the industry through conferences and early exposure 0:50:55 Preparing the new generation to take over and ensure growth 0:54:28 Fundraising Events for Scholarships and Mentorship Opportunities 0:57:18 Introduction to Anthony Garcia and his background 1:05:05 Introduction to David Isaac: From Fields to Data Center Industry 1:09:16 Connecting with Latinos: Building Trust and Improving Projects 1:13:30 The Why: Representation, Empowerment, and Sharing the Path 1:25:04 Mentorship - Importance and Vision of OlaData 1:29:05 A focus on education, mentorship, and opportunities. 1:37:21 Wrapping up: Key Takeaways from the Discussion 1:37:53 Join us in making a positive change in people's lives

February 9, 20245 min

Welcome to The Lighthouse

Welcome to The Lighthouse, lightning the path to success. Hispanic & Latin leaders from across the digital infrastructure industry tell their path to success and everything it took to get where they are at today.