The Lighthouse

The Lighthouse

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.

Episodes

  1. 09/04/2024

    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?

    1h 32m
  2. 09/02/2024

    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

    1h 39m
  3. 09/02/2024

    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

    1h 42m

About

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.