“There is a vast majority of Latino representation in the tech industry but little by little we are breaking down barriers”
This month for Hispanic Heritage Month we’d love to share with y’all some amazing stories from the Dev Mission family! Introducing to you the inspiring story of Alvino Silvia!
Alvino, a Bay Area native and a fourth year at San Francisco State University studying Mechanical Engineering, comes to us from Richmond in pursuit of a better future! He was a part of our 20th Fall Pre-Apprenticeship program this Fall and is now a CTA Intern!
Alvino’s story is a tale of hardship, perseverance, and hopefulness. “A huge challenge was growing up in a low-income family where there wasn’t money to have computers or laptops. The first laptop at the house was given from my mom’s job.” Alvino’s family coming from Mexico and El Salvador faced their fair share of struggle and continued to seek out opportunities when presented. Additionally, Alvino wasn’t exposed to tech opportunities or STEM-related programs in middle and High School. Despite wanting to join a robotics club or something else tech-related, growing up in the public school system, the lack of resources made it hard to access those opportunities. Despite the obstacles Alvino faces, he has not let them get in the way of fighting for a better future. “It took a lot of time and hard work but I know the journey isn’t over.”
Alvino is passionate about engineering and technology, despite knowing it was going to be a challenge, Alvino decided to pursue Mechanical Engineering. Throughout his courses, he continues to be curious about the functionality of our devices. He likes to analyze pieces of tech and asks himself, “Why does it behave the way it does?” Alvino’s interest first sparked while he was breaking and rebuilding a computer and a radio to see for himself what each part’s function was. He enjoyed the break and build during the pre-apprenticeship program because he was able to analyze each component on a larger scale and apply the skills he had picked up from the classes.
In his own words; “Being a part of the Latinx Community is a huge accomplishment. Seeing someone that speaks or looks alike, inspired me. I told myself that if they can do it then I can do it as well. Many obstacles are faced growing up as a Latinx but if your passion and mindset are in the right space then there is no limit as to what you can achieve. There is a vast majority of Latinx representation in the tech industry but little by little we are breaking down barriers.” Alvino has faced his fair share of obstacles and challenges throughout his journey such as a lack of resources, tech classes available to him, and even his high school being shut down. Against the odds, Alvino has persevered and continues to challenge himself, pursuing a future in the tech industry and fighting to break down barriers.
Stories like Alvino’s are essential to bring to the spotlight. We can share our unique experiences that bring our communities together. Together we learn about the obstacles our communities face, and how we continue to persevere. In Alvino’s words, “ It is important to have Latinx representation in the tech industry because you can relate more to someone that looks or speaks like you. The young adults and future generations can raise their heads higher and tell themselves they are worthy to become something great. Your attitude determines your altitude!”
Alvino plans on working in the tech industry after graduation. He is interested in automotive, robotic, and aeronautical fields and hopes to land a career in these fields. He believes it would be a good experience and hopes to meet different people with different backgrounds and experiences. Alvino continues to believe in his support system and in uplifting his community. He plans on working on improving his hard skills, working on giving back to his family and his community. He has big plans of buying his mom a house and being able to tell his dad he doesn’t have to work anymore. Alvinos’ passion for learning is unmatched and his story is a reminder to us all. Despite our struggles, your mindset, values, beliefs, and community are above all else, that is our determination for success! Thank you to Alvino Silvia for this inspiring reminder and don’t forget to stay tuned for the rest of this month’s highlights!
