Introduction

Our identities are shaped by the cultures, experiences, and relationships that define us. Hispanic Heritage Month serves as a time to honor these influences, recognizing how our roots shape our present and future.

Meet Gaston Alavarado Maza, a Global Category Manager at Materion Corporation, whose journey from Mexico to the United States is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of knowledge. Having lived in the U.S. for over a decade, Gaston reflects on the defining moments that molded his identity—education, language, and cultural transformation.

Three Generations of Evolution Through Education

Born into a humble family, Gaston’s grandfather prioritized survival, while his father focused on professional education. Building on their legacy, Gaston embraced not just academic growth but also the necessity of mastering new languages. He calls this progression the “Evolution of Three Generations.”

Education has remained his top priority—not just for himself but for his children. While working near the U.S.-Mexico border, he realized the value of an American education and enrolled his children in a U.S. private school. Their daily routine involved waking up at 4:00 AM, crossing the border, and commuting via bus using a special visa. This relentless commitment highlights Gaston’s determination to provide the best opportunities for his family.

His career trajectory mirrors this same dedication. From a trade high school to an engineering degree, his journey was initially guided by his father. However, he chose a different parenting approach—allowing his children the freedom to carve their own paths.

Navigating Corporate Culture in a New Country

Starting as a warehouse manager, Gaston climbed the corporate ladder to become a customer service and procurement manager. His move to the United States in the early 2010s brought both career growth and cultural adjustments. By 2015, he found himself in an entirely American corporate environment, where leadership styles, communication methods, and workplace dynamics were vastly different.

“There are things that seem small, but they are part of the daily learning curve,” Gaston reflects. Adapting required him to rethink, refine, and continuously improve his professional approach.

Mastering the Language of Success

Language played a pivotal role in Gaston’s journey. While he first encountered English at 18, he didn’t begin using it professionally until 26. Over time, he mastered three forms of English:

• Tourist English – Basic, conversational English typically taught in schools.
• Business English – The formal language of corporate communication.
• Everyday English – The nuanced version spoken in daily interactions.

With the help of his wife, an American citizen, Gaston refined his language skills, bridging the gap between professional and personal communication. His goal was simple yet ambitious—to understand every word he heard or read. This experience underscores how fluency extends beyond vocabulary; it shapes confidence, career growth, and cross-cultural connections.

A Legacy of Resilience and Growth

One of Gaston’s greatest challenges was ensuring his children’s education despite financial obstacles. Taking a leap of faith, he switched jobs, proving that persistence leads to opportunity. Today, he sees the rise of bilingual, bicultural professionals as a major asset to the U.S. workforce.

For Gaston, embracing his heritage isn’t just about remembering the past—it’s about integrating traditions, languages, and experiences into a dynamic future. His story exemplifies the power of lifelong learning, adaptability, and cultural appreciation.

At Great Learning, we share his belief that growth comes from stepping outside comfort zones. As Gaston wisely puts it:

“Time will pass no matter what. It’s up to you to decide what to do with it.”