Hispanic Heritage Month Employee Spotlight: David Corchado

According to  Hispanic Heritage Month’s  website, “each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.” To honor this incredible month,  Investis  Digital would like to highlight some of our employees who are of Hispanic and Latino descent. 

In today’s post, we’re spotlighting  some insights from David Corchado, Chief Digital Officer at  Investis Digital.  David shares, “I joined Investis Digital in May of 2017 as Chief Digital Officer.  As CDO I lead the technology groups that build solutions for our clients.” 

David graciously answered six questions about his career, life, and heritage for us—here’s a little bit more about him in his own words:

What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?

My family had a long history of being involved in politics in Spain, and over time one of them relocated to Puerto Rico where he represented the interest of Puerto Rico before Spanish courts and advocated for the independence of what was then a colony.  My ancestor fought for independence and, to this day, there is a statue in Isabella, Puerto Rico in honor of  Manuel Corchado y Juarbe.  Hispanic Heritage Month reminds me of the sacrifices that these leaders in the Spanish colonies made in their quest for independence and a unique identity.    

Who would you say was your greatest influence for your career?

I have been fortunate to work under talented managers that had a passion for the work we were doing. Even today I sometimes ask how some of my mentors would respond to certain challenges.  

What advice would you give to young Latino professionals who are looking to get into the digital communications space?

I would say to take risks and don’t let anything hold you back from pursuing a path or working for a great company.  Nothing ever held me back. I have never felt a bias against me for my heritage at work. In the Technology field in particular, analytical skills and an ability to communicate are the currency that buys you a strong future.  I would also say that if you are just starting out, work for someone you respect and can look to as a mentor.  Then be a sponge and take in everything they do.  

How did you get your start in the industry? 

I started out studying writing and psychology in college  but then began coding on my own for fun. Eventually, I took some IT courses at a technical school and started at the bottom as a support engineer at IBM.  From there my love for technology grew and I have since rotated through different types of consulting and development roles to get where I am today.  

What is a family tradition you wish to pass down, that your parents have passed down to you?  

My wife is Italian, but my children love Spanish food.  Paella, or yellow rice and chicken with adobo.  Like other Latin families we are high energy and we enjoy dancing –although I’m still not very good at it.   

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

 I like comic books and I like to sketch superheroes.  Apparently, I’m still a geek inside.