Workforce Solutions Capital Area is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that serves to lead and govern the Austin/Travis County area workforce system. In this role, we are responsible for the planning, oversight, and evaluation of workforce development activities in the Capital Area. Simply put, we connect local people — youth and adults — to the most in-demand industries with quality jobs.
To help us bridge our region’s skills gap, we are excited to welcome Ernesto Del Valle to our board of directors. Ernesto currently serves as the director of portfolio management at CrowdStrike, a global cybersecurity leader.
Get to know Ernesto in our Q&A below, and connect with him on LinkedIn to see his extensive experience in information technology, digital analytics, and process improvement.
Q: Where is your hometown?
A: Mexico City
Q: How did you first become involved with Workforce Solutions Capital Area (WFS)?
A: I have been part of the tech migration to Austin. As part of this transformation, I have experienced first-hand the incredible growth of tech in the Capital Area, but also lived through the skilled labor shortages in this industry. By working with WFS, I believe we all can make a difference by connecting the right folks to the right opportunities, specifically in tech.
Q: How is WFS a go-to resource for employers in Austin?
A: WFS is a key resource for anyone that is in the market (either willingly or due to other external circumstances). WFS is also a great resource for people who are seeking a shift in their career from one area to another, and it’s a great one-stop place to get the bearings to navigate these career moves.
Q: What is the value of connecting local people to local jobs?
A: Texas is the eighth largest economy in the world and worth $2.4 trillion! We have an endless spectrum of possibilities and some of the most capable and hard-working people. Connecting local people to local jobs will simply strengthen our economy and, more importantly, ensure that every Central Texan has an opportunity to grow.
Q: How does upskilling benefit your industry?
A: To me, upskilling is the most important opportunity for an individual in the workforce. Upskilling allows individuals to remain valuable and relevant to the changing needs of our economy — local, state, national or even international.
Q: How has skills training helped you develop your career?
A: I consider myself a life-learner. I am always looking to learn new skills. Throughout my career, these learned skills have helped me progress, and, most importantly, allowed me to help others to access opportunities by sharing my experiences and lessons learned along the way.
BONUS QUESTIONS
Q: What does your ideal day in the Austin area look like?
A: Finding that next perfect spot for BBQ, breakfast tacos or coffee, always in good company having a meaningful conversation.
Q: Is a hot dog a sandwich?
A: Hot dog is a sausage wrapped in an edible mitten.
Q: If you could give a piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
A: Never be afraid to take a risk, listen to your heart, and if people do not believe in you, prove them wrong!
