Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Part 2

A look inside TEKsystems as employees share stories about their heritage and how their career journeys have shaped them personally and professionally

October 12, 2022

At TEKsystems, we’re committed to nurturing an inclusive workplace culture and welcoming diversity into every aspect of our business. For this series, we asked employees from the AdelanTEK Employee Network (EN)* to share their unique perspectives as we honor Hispanic Heritage Month.

Paula Giuffre

Regional Human Resources Manager and AdelanTEK Employee Network (EN) leader, New Jersey, three years at TEKsystems (10 years with Allegis Group)

Lineage: Uruguay

My family and I immigrated to the U.S. from Uruguay when I was a young teenager. Our situation was a little different from many immigrants back home. We were not poor, did not live in a dangerous place and were not in search of political refuge. My father worried that my sister and I would not have the access to education, career, stability and opportunities we'd have in America. I was excited to come to the U.S. and brought two suitcases full of hopes and dreams.

As a family, we experienced many ups and downs upon our arrival. At times, we faced discrimination, but we did not allow that to stop us from having the life we wanted. We persevered because we supported one another, focused on working hard, pushing forward and striving for more every day.

Today, I continue carrying the same grit and values that have contributed to my personal and professional growth as an adult. I am so grateful to my family and TEKsystems community for allowing me to own my development. With their support, I have expanded my knowledge and skills, fulfilled goals, enhanced my brand, and am unafraid of being my true self in and outside work.

While my heritage inspired my resilience and versatility, AdelanTEK has been an uplifting force I would never want to see myself without. Together, our passion is to elevate one another, advocate for our people, and give them the sense of belonging they need and deserve.

Danielle Gonzales

Director, Risk & Security Services, Seattle, 12 years at TEKsystems

My parents instilled a mantra in me early on: we are not defined by what happens to us in life but by how we choose to respond. Therefore, I believe every challenge, obstacle, opportunity and success offers a chance for us to grow as human beings. Sometimes growth can be uncomfortable and messy, but to bloom without restraint or regret, we must see every moment as an opportunity to show up and grow as our best selves in this world.

I believe that the pursuit of personal and professional growth should be holistic.

During my 12-year tenure at TEKsystems, I have had mentors, friends and coaches who have encouraged me to be my best self at work and home. They have all inspired me to grow professionally and be the best person, parent, partner, friend, leader and citizen of the world that I can be.

Some of the best advice I received from a mentor? Assess where you spend your time and energy. Be sure it aligns with your core values and purpose. I love serving my community, and AdelanTEK has given me a unique opportunity to connect with other Latinx and Hispanic employees across TEKsystems. It has provided a space to discuss shared experiences and created a foundation to connect members with mentors who aid in navigating their career paths.