Have you encountered any specific challenges or barriers as a Latina professional climbing the corporate ladder? How did you navigate through them?

As a Latina, one of the biggest challenges I faced climbing the corporate ladder was overcoming a cultural mindset of humility that felt at odds with stating my career goals and asking for help. To this day, I still say “Gracias a Dios” or “Si Dios lo permite” about almost everything.  It took time and coaching to authentically advocate for myself and directly ask my managers and leaders for their support in achieving my ambitions. At Google, I have been pleasantly surprised by how open leaders have been to supporting my career goals. I've learned that self-advocacy, clarity about aspirations, and asking for help are essential for success, but still don't come naturally to me.

What strategies or initiatives have you personally implemented or supported to foster diversity, equity, and inclusion within Google's workplace?

As Director of Talent Outreach, I have spearheaded our investment in scaled tools and technologies that expand how we identify and connect with top talent (from students all the way to executives). By meeting candidates where they are, regardless of their alma mater, past companies, or physical location, we break down barriers and create a stronger and more representative Google.

Within my team, I prioritize the equitable distribution of work and opportunities. I understand that access to high-profile projects and roles can shape career trajectories, so intentional distribution is critical.

I also actively engage with the Google Latinx Leadership Council (LLC), empowering the Latinx community both inside and outside the company. I firmly believe that supporting and advancing our diverse communities is essential for building a more inclusive workplace.

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As a successful executive, how do you balance your professional responsibilities with personal commitments or community involvement?

Balance is an ongoing daily endeavor/practice. I give myself grace for the days I get it right and the days I don't, knowing I can reset tomorrow. I've learned that the path to balance is not a solo journey. Asking for help from my team, friends, and my partner is essential. To lead by example, I openly share my personal commitments on my calendar with my team, demonstrating that sometimes "life happens during work," and occasionally, "work happens during life." My hope is that this transparency and vulnerability help create a culture of understanding and mutual support.

Could you share some insights into your approach to mentorship and sponsorship, especially in supporting aspiring Latino professionals within Google?

Mentors and sponsors are essential for navigating career growth. Mentors are there to provide guidance and share their expertise - you should be specific about your needs and goals to maximize their impact. Sponsors, on the other hand, actively advocate for you. To earn their sponsorship, be clear about your aspirations and ensure they know your work firsthand. I've personally benefited from exceptional mentors and sponsors, and in turn, I prioritize both formal and informal mentorship, along with actively sponsoring talent from all backgrounds, especially underrepresented groups. I do not take for granted that as a Latina Executive in Tech, I am in a unique position to serve as an amplifier for aspiring professionals who look like me or have similar backgrounds.

How do you keep up with the rapid pace of tech?

In the ever-evolving tech landscape, a mindset of continuous learning and intellectual curiosity is crucial. I firmly believe in the power of 'not being afraid to be a beginner.' To stay ahead, I actively seek out folks who are experts in the field I am interested in, prioritize learning time, and embrace putting new knowledge into practice. Additionally, I try to stay up-to-date with industry news and podcasts and recently went back to school to complete Stanford's Executive Program (SEP), through their Graduate School of Business, to expand my knowledge and network. The key is to acknowledge the constant evolution of tech and to commit to ongoing learning - you'll never know it all.