Jobseeker to Bridge Builder:

The telecommunications industry's rapid evolution hasn't just presented challenges; it's created opportunities. For Gus Barajas, a Senior Sourcing Manager in Retail Wireless Supply Chain Management, a shift in the landscape five years ago wasn't a professional setback; it was a catalyst. Faced with industry changes, he sought new avenues, a search that led him to EchoStar. But his arrival wasn't simply about finding a job; it was the beginning of a mission to build community and empower others within the dynamic telecom world.

"It was a calling," Gus explains, reflecting on his early days at EchoStar. While grateful for the new role, he felt a deeper pull to create something meaningful. This sense of purpose stemmed from a personal experience years earlier, when a chance encounter with an executive at an industry conference changed the course of his life. The executive's simple act of offering him a ride from the airport to the conference left a lasting impression, instilling in Gus a desire to pay it forward and ensure no one is left behind in the fast-paced telecom environment.

This "calling" manifested in the creation of Adelante, EchoStar's thriving Hispanic/Latino employee resource group (ERG). Just seven months into his tenure, Gus, along with five other team members, launched the ERG, recognizing a gap in community and support for Hispanic/Latino team members navigating the complexities of the telecommunications sector. Despite EchoStar’s collaborative and supportive workforce, with 19% self-identified as Hispanic/Latino, there wasn't a dedicated space for these team members to connect, network and grow.

Adelante quickly became a powerful force within EchoStar. Starting with a small group of founders, it has grown to over 700 registered members and a mailing list of over 2,000. The ERG provides workshops, training and networking opportunities, empowering members to advance their careers within EchoStar and the broader telecommunications landscape. Gus’s passion for professional development, honed through years of experience, fuels Adelante's success. He sees the ERG as a vehicle for members to not only stay true to their culture but also to achieve their professional aspirations.

Adelante’s impact is undeniable. The ERG has been recognized with external awards, competing with and often surpassing similar groups at other major corporations in the telecom sector. “My fuel, my encouragement every day when I come in,” Gus shares, “is, did I touch somebody else’s life? Are they now interested in participating not only with Adelante, but staying at EchoStar to improve their careers in telecommunications?” Members have shared countless stories of how Adelante has helped them gain new skills, network with leaders and ultimately advance their careers. The ERG's success is a testament to Gus’s leadership and his unwavering commitment to his mission.

Beyond Adelante, Gus's leadership extends to his role in supply chain management. He has played a key role in consolidating spend, reducing costs and streamlining processes within the organization. He emphasizes the importance of education and best practices, encouraging his team members to pursue certifications through organizations like the Association of Supply Chain Management (ASCM), for which he serves as company coordinator. He believes in empowering his team to learn from other industries and apply those learnings within EchoStar, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in the dynamic telecom environment.

When asked about the challenges he has faced, Gus emphasizes the importance of resilience and staying true to one's values. He acknowledges that there will always be resistance to change, especially in a rapidly evolving industry like telecommunications, but focusing on the mission is key to overcoming adversity. He stresses the importance of prioritizing initiatives and avoiding distractions to stay focused on core objectives.

Gus's leadership philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Say what you're going to do, and then do what you said." He believes in leading by example, demonstrating integrity and commitment in all his actions. He encourages aspiring leaders to follow their hearts and pursue their passions, believing that success will follow.

Gus’s journey, from seeking an opportunity to his impactful work connecting team members at EchoStar, is a testament to the power of resilience, passion and a commitment to helping others. He embodies the true spirit of leadership, not just by what he says, but by what he does, leaving a lasting impact on his team, his community and the EchoStar team members he supports. His story is a reminder to embrace opportunity and invest in people, one person can uplift so many others.