JELD-WEN is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, which is recognized every year in the United States from September 15 to October 15 and the unique ideas our Hispanic and Latino associates bring to our company.
09/15/2023
Viva la cultura: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
The history, customs and accomplishments of people with ancestry in Spain, Mexico, Central and South America and the Spanish-speaking Caribbean are honored throughout this month-long celebration. The month is significant not just for the food, dancing and upbeat music however, but also for recognizing the impact people of Hispanic heritage have on our communities, our country and JELD-WEN.
Meet four of our associates who share the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month, their inspiration and their thoughts on inclusivity at JELD-WEN.
Meet Jorge Pagan, senior manager of HR
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month allows us to show the world who we are and what makes us unique and diverse. Even though we are Hispanic, we are all different, depending on the region you come from. For example, I’m from the Caribbean and we love making noise, dancing and enjoying time with family while eating fried turnovers.
Are there any Hispanic people who have inspired you to do what you do and/or to be who you are today?
Growing up, I was inspired by my parents. They never finished school but always had a positive attitude and encouraged us to do our best. Coming from a family of eight boys, you can imagine how busy our lives were. So many memories and learning experiences made us who we are. Thanks to my parents, I was able to finish university and have a career. And who knew that I would be living in California?
How do you feel being represented at JELD-WEN as a Hispanic?
JELD-WEN has a diverse culture. We have associates of different ethnicities and races making us unique. I feel proud that we have Hispanics within the organization.
“No matter what race or ethnicity you are, let's embrace every moment to celebrate life and the good things around us.”
Jorge Pagan, senior manager of HR
Meet Maria Sileo, senior talent management global program specialist of HR
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month means acknowledging the courage and the sacrifices immigrants have made and continue to make in the hopes of a better life.
Are there any Hispanic people who have inspired you to do what you do and/or to be who you are today?
I am who I am today because of my mother. I am a Colombian immigrant raised in a single-parent household with very little income. Growing up, I watched my mom struggle to do whatever job she had to keep a roof over our heads and enough food on the table. She was determined to give us a better life. So, I learned very early on from her the meaning of determination and hard work. At 14 years old, I started working. I graduated from high school a few years later and worked multiple jobs to put myself through college. I am now happily married and have a young son, a career and a home. My son will also one day learn these important lessons, thanks to the seeds his Abuela (grandma) planted.
How do you feel being represented at JELD-WEN as a Hispanic?
Being Hispanic at JELD-WEN speaks to the inclusive culture here. I am proud to work for a company that embraces diversity and truly practices one of its core values, Investing in People.
“One of my favorite quotes is, ‘Strength lies in differences, not in similarities’ by Stephen Covey.”
Maria Sileo senior talent management global program specialist of HR
Meet Michael Leon, SVP, CAO of finance
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
This month means an opportunity to celebrate the culture of our collective team, with an emphasis on the word celebrate. JELD-WEN has an employee resource group called Orgullo, which means “pride” in Spanish. There are so many accomplishments and such wonderful cultural contributions to be proud of as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Are there any Hispanic people who have inspired you to do what you do and/or to be who you are today?
My dad and grandparents were Cuban immigrants and really inspired me to be who I am today. Their work ethic was extraordinary and their selflessness to their families was even more inspirational. My grandmother often asked me, “What did you do today to help someone?” While she’s passed on, that phrase has really stayed with me. I still hold myself accountable to that question and try to have a good answer for her at the end of each day.
How do you feel being represented at JELD-WEN as a Hispanic?
Our collection of employee resource groups at JELD-WEN is diverse and I love the energy displayed when we meet collectively. Café Orgullo is such a simple concept because it lets its members get together and have coffee once a month. I have found it to be such a wonderful venue for sharing stories of our culture, like recipes, travel ideas, movies and, most of all, the feeling of collective inclusion.
Meet Mario Calixto Gonzalez, group lead of manufacturing operations
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
To me, this month is like a big festival. Every year, we get to celebrate Hispanics in the United States, our culture, traditions, and the history of all Latin American countries.
Are there any Hispanic people who have inspired you to do what you do and/or to be who you are today?
I would have to say it would be my parents. They have inspired me to be who I am today in my work and personal life.
How do you feel being represented at JELD-WEN as a Hispanic?
As a Hispanic, I feel proud and grateful working for JELD-WEN. It’s a great company and they’re always caring for its associates.
Read more about how JELD-WEN celebrates its diverse workforce here.
