We’re proud to announce the winner of our March Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Pineapple* GOAT Award, presented on a monthly basis to a Galvanize employee who exemplifies our company-wide commitment to DEI.
The purpose of this award is to celebrate the efforts and accomplishments of our team members working to advance our DEI goals, which include creating and improving our systems and processes for a sustainable, successful present and future for both our team and our students.
This month’s winner is Miltary Transition Specialist Poli Gonzalez. In his role, Poli helps Transitioning Service Members (TSMs) attending our Military Career Skills Program (MCSP) alleviate the struggles of out-processing from the military as they learn how to become software engineers.
Not long ago, we wrote about Poli’s journey from service member, to MCSP student, to his current role at Galvanize. Read more about his journey here. Plus, below, you can read more from Poli, as he answers questions about what it means to receive this award. You’ll also see a brief Q&A with an anonymous team member who nominated him for the award.
Q&A with Poli Gonzalez
What is your response to receiving this award?
Receiving this award comes at a meaningful point in my career. Coming into a career in tech after the military was a bit intimidating to me. As a Veteran, I didn’t know the type of person I would be considered as in the ‘civilian’ eye. The ability to share my military culture in this space of inclusion means more to me than I would have ever envisioned. This award truly motivates me to do more, and be more.
Why is DEI important to you?
DEI is important to me because it takes away a ‘cookie-cutter’ view on employment. It allows us to show who we are outside the workplace. This is important to me because we are all just humans looking to make an impact. Why can’t we be ourselves while we work towards the same mission? DEI does just that. It allows us to show our true colors, champion differences, and most importantly, allows us to feel included.
Why do you like working at Galvanize?
I like working at Galvanize because there is opportunity. Having the ability to make impactful changes to better our workforce is something I enjoy, and here at Galvanize, it is welcomed at all levels.
Q&A with Anonymous Team Member
Why do you believe this person should be nominated as a Galvanize GOAT?
He has worked diligently to get the Military Employee Resource Group (ERG) back up and making progress.
How does this person make Galvanize a better place?
He’s kind, compassionate, passionate, and a strong representative of the military and veteran community.
How do they embody our company values?
He lives Galvanize’s mission and values daily both personally and professionally.
What do you personally appreciate about this person the most?
His patience yet persistence to make progress on important initiatives for both him and his colleagues.
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*Why is the word pineapple in the award name, you might ask? Fair question! The pineapple has long been a symbol of hospitality, warmth, and welcoming. Here at Galvanize, we’ve adopted the symbol, incorporating its meaning into our values. We often refer to our team members as “pineapples” as we strive to embody the ideals of working together, openness, and kindness toward all staff and students.
Read about last month’s winner Briana Riley here, and be sure to check back next month to read about our April awardee.
