What makes an employee stay with a company for a quarter of a century? For Nereida Martinez, a Senior Talent Acquisition Coordinator at EchoStar, it's a combination of opportunity, community and pride. Her remarkable 25-year journey, starting with a walk-in application and blossoming into a thriving career, offers a compelling look at the supportive and growth-oriented environment that defines EchoStar.
Nereida vividly recalls her first day, a leap of faith fueled by a friend's recommendation. With no specific role in mind, she walked into the lobby, filled out an application, and to her surprise, landed an on-the-spot interview. That initial experience, marked by hope and a willingness to embrace the unknown, set the stage for a long and fulfilling career. "25 years later, I’m so grateful that this company gave me that opportunity," Nereida reflects. Her enduring loyalty stems from EchoStar's commitment to hiring based on competency and potential, principles that have allowed her to flourish and evolve over the years. For Nereida, she carries the appreciation of that first chance every day. The consistent presence of supportive and genuine teams have been the bedrock of her long tenure.
Nereida's career path at EchoStar is a testament to the internal opportunities available. Starting as a customer service agent, she quickly demonstrated her eagerness to learn and grow. Driven by a desire to build a meaningful career for herself and her young son, she excelled in customer service before transitioning to an administrative assistant role within the manufacturing team. This move, though initially nerve-wracking, equipped her with new skills and paved the way for a move into Human Resources as an HR Associate. It was in HR that Nereida truly found her stride, learning to support and engage with team members. This ultimately led to her current role in Talent Acquisition, where she now finds immense joy in connecting with candidates and offering them the same opportunities she once received.
Having spent a significant portion of her career at the El Paso site, Nereida has witnessed firsthand the growth of individuals she helped bring into the company. Seeing former candidates rise through the ranks to become team managers and leaders is a source of immense pride and reinforces her passion for her job. "I genuinely love my job and what I do," she shares.
“I genuinely love my job and what I do. I enjoy reaching out to candidates and calling them to give them the opportunity to take the next step in their career."
— Nereida Martinez, Senior Talent Acquisition Coordinator
When asked about favorite projects, Nereida's passion for internal mobility shines through. She actively participated in our Pathfinder table days at the El Paso site, educating current employees about internal career opportunities and empowering them to explore different paths within the company. This initiative, aimed at increasing awareness of internal growth potential, aligns perfectly with her own career trajectory at EchoStar. Similarly, her involvement in virtual job hiring events allows her to educate external candidates about the vast array of career options available across EchoStar's various departments. "You can branch out wherever you want. We have so many departments," she emphasizes.
The longevity of Nereida's career at EchoStar is deeply rooted in the strong sense of community she experienced at the El Paso site. "The sense of community in El Paso is evident in the way we're constantly encouraging each other," she explains. This supportive environment, where colleagues readily assist one another regardless of team affiliation, fostered a deep sense of belonging. Furthermore, Nereida highlights the collective pride in their work that permeates every department she's encountered, from sales to manufacturing to her current role in Talent Acquisition. This shared commitment and the unwavering support from her managers have created a sense of inclusivity and family that has made her feel truly at home at EchoStar.
For candidates considering joining the Customer Experience Organization (CXO) team, where Nereida began her journey, her takeaway is clear: "If you're really looking to work somewhere where you have the opportunity to grow, your voice matters, and you feel supported every day, this is the place you want to be." She emphasizes that the CXO team often serves as a crucial stepping stone, providing foundational skills and opportunities for growth across various departments within EchoStar. It's a launchpad for a long and fulfilling career within the company.
“If you're really looking to work somewhere where you have the opportunity to grow, your voice matters, and you feel supported every day, this is the place you want to be. This is truly a community where each leader is investing in their team and helping each team member achieve their potential."
— Nereida Martinez, Senior Talent Acquisition Coordinator
While Nereida humbly downplays her leadership qualities, her dedication to mentorship and leading by example are evident. She strives to be a supportive figure for her team, guiding them in their interactions with candidates and fostering their professional growth. This commitment to nurturing talent mirrors the very opportunities she has been afforded throughout her own impressive 25-year tenure at EchoStar.
Nereida Martinez's story is a powerful testament to the enduring appeal of EchoStar. It's a company where a walk-in application can blossom into a decades-long career filled with diverse opportunities, a strong sense of community and unwavering support. For candidates seeking more than just a job – a place where they can learn, grow and feel like part of a community – EchoStar, as Nereida's experience demonstrates, offers a compelling and rewarding path.
