April STEM Month is a celebration dedicated to promoting and raising awareness about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. GlobalMindED is proud to highlight the voices and work of influential STEM leaders.
Juan Garcia serves as State Director for ClassWallet, the leading purchasing and reimbursement platform working with federal, state, and local agencies across the US. Before Class Wallet, Juan served as Principal, Tech Business Developer for Amazon. In this capacity, Juan partnered with Higher Education leaders from across the country, transforming institutions by innovating with Amazon’s technology, creating solutions to improve retail operations, reduce costs, and position ALL students for success.
From Peruvian Dishwasher to Inclusive Educational Leader: Juan Garcia's Journey of Language, Resilience, and Service
What is your personal/professional story?
I am originally from Peru and moved to the US 37 years ago. I came to Iowa to learn the language, it was a culture shock to see snow for the first time and to experience below-zero temperatures. I registered at the local community college as an English as a Second Language (ESL) student. I was the only Hispanic student in my class and as someone who did not speak a word of English, it was very challenging. While studying English, I started to work as a dishwasher at the local hotel, I did this for two years to learn the language. I am very passionate about education and the opportunities it can bring to everyone, regardless of color, language, or socioeconomic status. Thanks to the support of the many people, mentors, and supporters who helped me in this journey, that's why I look to pay it forward in everything I do! I serve as a state director at ClassWallet, where we impact lives every day via the partnerships we develop.
What key moments in your life led you to where you are today?
Working in college access and equity issues for students and families for most of my life, one of the best moments of my career happened when I was accepted into the Harvard Business School, Executive Education program. A program that took three years of applying to get in. The experience of being in a cohort of people from different countries and walks of life, all learning together was invigorating. At the end of the program, I was selected to give the graduation remarks, a truly humbling experience that I dedicate to all the families and students I have ever worked with.
Where does your passion to serve come from?
Helping people comes to our family naturally, as we are always looking forward to lending a hand to someone in need. That drive led me to serve as a Firefighter in Iowa for 21 years, retiring as a Fire Captain. There is nothing like helping someone when they need you the most. They may not be able to say thank you, but you know in your heart that you helped them!
How can GlobalMindED help you reach your goals?
I love the networking opportunities, getting to know passionate people from different parts of the country and exchanging ideas, learning together, and continuing to improve education, by removing barriers, improving systems, and bringing the voice of those underserved to the front of issues. I am looking forward to the conference in Denver, I will see you there!
