About us
Our Mission
To create a network of Latino construction professionals. By connecting younger
Latino construction professionals to those already established, we will raise awareness of the
industry opportunities; provide access to mentorship, education, industry networking and growth
resources. Our network includes local construction industry leaders, design professionals, and
business owners.
Meet a new, local non-profit: Rising Latino Professional, Inc.
Our Vision
To foster the next generation of Rising Latino construction industry Professionals; bring diversity and new ideas to the industry; empower the Hispanic community; and support the
creation of generational wealth.
Ambassadors
Meet the founding leaders of Rising Latino Professionals.
“After working for more than 30 years in the industry, the number of Latinos holding executive positions dwindle. We do not have enough Latinos making decisions and providing opportunities to Latinos. We need to cultivate the next generation of construction executives now.”
Armando Francisco
Executive Vice President of Lake Erie Electric, Inc
“Since I started my career as an engineering designer in the construction industry, I have noticed a lack of peers with a similar background and heritage as my own; whether it be in my own profession or other companies I worked with as a consultant. I would like to help spread the word of the opportunities available and help grow the presence of Latino Professionals in the industry.”
Christian Pastor
Senior Electrical Project Engineer for Karpinski Engineering
“As a product of the community, I want to be able to help provide opportunities as others have provided for me. Hispanics are highly misrepresented in leadership roles in construction. Organizations like RLP help bring awareness and solutions to the issues at hand.”
Kenny Torres
President of KT & Company
“I have represented contractors for the past 25 years. I rarely work with any Latinos. According to the 2020 census, approximately 30% of construction workers are Latinos. We need to increase our numbers in management and ownership positions.”
Marc Sanchez
Partner for Frantz Ward
“As a marketing and communications professional, I notice that companies hire my services to recruit Latinos into the workforce but rarely ever for leadership roles. I would like to change the perception that Latinos are not just labor worker force but leaders and capable of much more!”
Myra Rosario
President and Owner of LC Media + Marketing
“I joined this group originally as I witnessed the lack of Latino project managers/Professionals in the construction industry. Although we are strong in the field, we need to grow off the field as well. This starts with mentoring and preparing the younger generation who will start their careers in the professional world.”
Rodolfo Soto
Project Manager for Soto Irrigation, Inc.
Members
Meet the additional members of Rising Latino Professionals.
“As an immigrant to the United States, I personally experienced the challenges and limited opportunities for Professional growth. I joined this group to support and advocate for the Latino community, leveraging my expertise and experiences to help those who are new to this country. One of my primary goals is to ensure they feel welcomed and empowered as they navigate their Road.“
Angelica Barraza
Project Engineer for Shook Construction
Chelsea Maldonado
President of Maldonado Construction Services
“Joining Rising Latino Professionals has opened the door to a powerful network of experienced Hispanic executives and business owners across Northeast Ohio. This small but yet dynamic organization provides valuable mentorship from leaders with diverse backgrounds, offering the guidance and opportunities that can shape my success. More than just a professional network, it celebrates our Latino heritage while fostering the growth of emerging talent-especially in the construction industry-empowering the next generation to build thriving careers and lasting legacies.”
Diego Cortez
Owner of Cortez Construction
Contact
We hope you and your company will choose to get involved. There are many opportunities such
as becoming a mentor, hiring, hosting one of our events and/or encouraging your Latino
employees to become part of this group.