Hispanics have been very successful in the IT industry. Is that thanks to groups like HITEC? What other groups (women, African Americans, etc.) appear to need help today when it comes to getting ahead in the industry?

We are certainly making a difference for many Hispanic IT executives, in terms of professional development, networking and mentoring. Of course, many of our current members were already successful before HITEC was formed.

Where we will have our biggest impact is in the seeds we plant with students and young executives today. While HITEC is making a difference today, 10 or 20 years down the road our impact will have been much greater.

There are also some outstanding groups including Information Technology Senior Management Forum (ITSMF), National Center for Women in Information Technology and Michigan Council of Women in Technology (MCWT). We work in conjunction with these groups where we can and know that together we can make a significant impact on diversity and inclusion in many industries and geographies.

What are the biggest challenges facing Hispanics in the IT industry?

In many ways it comes down to education. We need to get more Hispanic kids into STEM programs, and we need to get more Hispanic youth into college.

Once they enter the workforce, it’s important that they see other Hispanic executives who are already successful and who they can look to as a mentor. Without support and guidance, it can be difficult for any young professional to grow.

The real challenge is for the IT industry. It needs talent, no matter where it comes from and the Hispanic community can be an important resource.

What are the biggest opportunities for Hispanics in the IT industry?

The need for talent in the high tech industry opens doors to every single industry, not only in America, but throughout the world. Opportunities for Hispanics in the IT industry are almost limitless. Our board and our membership include executives from some of the top Fortune 500 companies.

We’ve recently seen a Hispanic IT executive ascend to a CEO position, as well as a HITEC board member joining the board of a major public company.

In a way, we see the biggest opportunities are actually for the IT industry to work with Hispanic executives. Demographically, our country is changing rapidly and the Hispanic population is growing. It is in the best interest of all companies to have strong roots in the Hispanic community. Cultivating Hispanic executive talent is a good start.