Today we’d like to introduce you to Eva Maria Rodriguez Alicea.
Hi Eva, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
I was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico but have lived all over the United States because of my father’s career in the military. Two of the biggest challenges I faced while growing up and transitioning to the USA were learning the English language and adapting to the culture. Quite often in my classes, I would be the only non-native English speaker. This experience deeply impacted me and my perspective today. I felt firsthand what it is like to be different and not quite fit in with the status quo. It has made me passionate about being a connector and building bridges to unify my community and help those that are also learning to adapt to a new environment.
My passion for community involvement and my Latina roots brought me to Dalton, GA as the Director of Services for the Latin American Association. Dalton is the “Carpet Capital of the World” with many of the world’s largest flooring manufacturers headquartered in the area. The town is 51% Hispanic/Latino . I enjoyed making a difference in my community through the Latin American Association but saw a further opportunity for growth by making the leap to the corporate world and working for one of the local manufacturers, Shaw Industries.
With more than 20,000 associates around the world and more than half of those based in Northwest Georgia, Shaw is a huge presence in the community. Shaw recognized the need for a community liaison that can help connect associates, the community, and their needs with the larger organization. I joined Shaw a year ago and now work as the Employee Relations and Outreach Specialist.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been easy and smooth to get to where I am today. As I mentioned earlier, making the move from Puerto Rico to the United States and adjusting to the culture and language was difficult. Even now in my current role, navigating the corporate world has its challenges and obstacles, especially as a Latina professional. I continually battle with the fear of not being “Latina enough” or “American enough.” I rely on my faith and remind myself that I am who He says I am which is more than enough.
These struggles are my strength. They help me lead and uplift others because I have had first-hand experience and know what it is like. Not all leaders can relate, so it’s important that I bring my diverse perspective to the table and help bridge cultural and community differences.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
If you can walk on it, Shaw probably makes it. We specialize in carpet, resilient flooring, hardwood, laminate, tile and stone, synthetic turf, and other specialty products. I am proud to say Shaw is more than just a flooring manufacturer though, one of the things that drew me to the company was its commitment to creating a better future for its associates, customers, and communities. They really walk the walk here and are constantly investing in their people and the community.
Shaw has a culture of inclusivity. I have created a strong work family in Conexión, one of Shaw’s seven associate resource groups (ARGs), for Hispanic/Latino people. I have also joined Spectrum, our ARG for black and multicultural associates, and ShawVet, our ARG that advocates for military service members, veterans, and their families; that is the beauty of inclusivity at Shaw Industries. Associates are given many platforms in which they can feel a sense of belonging.
By even having a position like mine “Employee Relations and Outreach Specialist,” it is evident that Shaw is intentional about enhancing our culture and the workplace experience for all of our associates. Although I have only been with the company for a year, I am so grateful for the impact that Shaw has made on me and my community.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Intentionality is key to growing professionally. Start implementing small daily habits that will help you achieve your goals overall. Goals are fine but can be heartbreaking when we do not meet them. Results are fine but hurt us when we quit doing the habits that brought us results.
Atomic habits are the key to creating the best you against our biggest enemy, time. Seeking mentors that understand you and the obstacles you face can help you overcome them and grow in your career. Be intentional and create intentional connections with those who have been there and are willing to help uplift you and your career goals.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @dalton_diva
- Facebook: @Eva Maria Rodriguez Alicea
Image Credits
Remy Miranda – Remmvisions – @remmvisions
