As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s essential to spotlight individuals making waves in their respective fields while breaking down barriers. One such individual is Carlos Trejo, a rising star in the tech industry.
Recently stepping into the role of Junior Systems Engineer, Carlos’s transition into IT is a testament to resilience, talent, and the power of cultural values. His story serves as a unique lens through which we can examine the challenges and opportunities of being a Hispanic individual in the U.S. tech sector.
This article aims to delve deeper into Carlos’s life, exploring his transition to IT, the hurdles he faced, and the cultural values that have guided him.
The Early Years
Carlos Trejo grew up in a family that recognized his natural affinity for technology from a young age. While he doesn’t directly attribute his career path to his Hispanic heritage, the values of hard work and perseverance instilled in him by his family played a significant role. “My family saw that I was good at technology, and that’s where it all started,” Carlos explains. This early recognition wasn’t just idle praise but a catalyst for Carlos’s curiosity.
From a young age, he was fascinated by how things worked, often disassembling gadgets around the house to understand their inner workings, much to his parents’ dismay. However, they soon realized their son had a knack for technology and encouraged him to explore it further.
The Role Model at Home
Carlos’s father is a construction worker and has been a monumental influence in his life. “My father always told me to aim for a better life than he had, to seek a job where I could enjoy the comforts of an office and a good salary,” Carlos recalls.
This paternal wisdom has been a guiding light in his career decisions and ambitions. His father’s life was a vivid example of the alternative—a physically demanding job with long hours and little comfort. “Seeing my dad come home exhausted every day was a constant reminder of why I needed to aim higher,” Carlos says.
The Career Transition
Carlos’s path to becoming a Junior Systems Engineer was not all rainbows and unicorns; he found challenges, including a noticeable lack of diversity in the tech industry. “It’s disheartening not to see a single brown person in this field,” he notes. Despite these hurdles, Carlos remained steadfast. “I had to stay consistent with my learning and trust the process, especially since I was entering IT without a college degree,” he adds.
One of the most significant challenges Carlos faced was self-doubt. There were moments when he questioned his abilities, but he pushed through these doubts by leaning on his father’s wisdom and the support of his community.
The transition was not just about acquiring new technical skills but also a mental and emotional journey. Carlos had to go through the complexities of being one of the few Hispanic individuals in his workplace, which sometimes led to feelings of isolation but also fueled his determination.
His story vividly illustrates the resilience and tenacity needed to break through systemic barriers in the tech industry, making his accomplishments all the more commendable.
A Call to Action
Carlos has a heartfelt message for aspiring tech professionals, particularly those from Hispanic backgrounds. “We need more representation in tech, and it starts with you,” he emphasizes. For those interested in cloud computing, Carlos recommends staying updated on AWS centers and attending events like DevOps DC.
Carlos also highly recommends Yellow Tail Tech’s Lnx For Jobs program. We designed this six-month program to transform you into a Linux DevOps System Administrator capable of managing enterprise-level IT infrastructure. With a manageable time commitment of 7-10 hours a week and live sessions to deepen your understanding, it covers everything from foundational networking to advanced Linux skills. It’s a comprehensive yet flexible pathway for those serious about a tech career.
Finally, networking, both online and in person, is another crucial aspect that Carlos emphasizes. “Don’t underestimate the power of a good network. It can open doors you didn’t even know existed,” he advises.
The Cultural Perspective
Carlos feels his family’s history and experiences have fueled his motivation to excel. “My family came from extreme poverty, and their journey to the U.S. was motivated by the desire for a better life. That same desire drives me to excel in my career,” he elaborates.
This sentiment is deeply rooted in Hispanic culture, where there’s an expectation for each generation to improve upon the last. “It’s not just about me; it’s about honoring the sacrifices my family made to give me these opportunities,” Carlos points out.
The Final Word: A Journey Worth Sharing
Carlos Trejo’s story inspires aspiring tech professionals and is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and community support. His transition into IT highlights the importance of diversity in the tech industry and how individual stories like his can make a significant impact.
Carlos serves as a beacon for others, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, showing that anyone can overcome hurdles and succeed in their chosen field with the right mindset and resources. His compelling narrative deserves to be shared far and wide, serving as a catalyst for change and inclusion in the tech world.
Book a 10-minute intro call now to discover how you can embark on a similar journey and make a meaningful impact in the tech industry.
A Brief Note on Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15. It’s a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors hail from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
The month-long celebration was enacted into law in 1988 and begins on September 15, which marks the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries. The observance also encompasses significant dates like Mexico’s and Chile’s independence days and Columbus Day.
