The Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley launched a bold new program, the STEM Career Accelerator, a comprehensive career and leadership development initiative for graduates of the Latinos in Technology Scholars Initiative (LITSI). This first cohort of LITSI alumni gathered to officially kick off our new phase of development, named Harvest.
The STEM Career Accelerator program will help LITSI graduates to advance in their careers and, in turn, support the foundation’s new scholars. In this way, we will build a long-term pipeline of Latino STEM talent that is not only ready to succeed but to lead the next generation.
For years, HFSV has focused on the K-12 and College phases of development (which we call our Seed and Cultivate phases, respectively). But during our recent Strategic Plan review, the STEM Career Accelerator emerged from a critical insight: our commitment must extend beyond graduation. Approximately 80% of our 450 scholars are first-generation college students who face unique “post-grad” hurdles. These hurdles include everything from navigating complex corporate benefits to managing impostor syndrome in high-stakes environments. This program is our answer to those challenges—a way not only to ensure our LITSI alumni land jobs but also to help them thrive, advance, and lead in incredibly demanding and rewarding STEM fields.
A Transformative First Session
In the first session at Santa Clara University, facilitators Magdalena Barrera and Lilly Pinedo Gangai led the cohort through Conocimiento, a self-reflection and storytelling activity. In small groups, these alumni shared personal stories about their home lives, what originally sparked their passion for STEM, and the career aspirations that drive them today. Many participants reflected on their shared identities, discussing how their lived experiences and cultural backgrounds shape how they show up in professional spaces. This is the kind of hands-on guidance that defines the STEM Career Accelerator. Magdalena and Lilly are just two of the many industry experts our scholars will engage with, ensuring they build the practical knowledge and professional networks needed to thrive in Silicon Valley.
One of the participants said, “This activity truly transformed our space, and I feel like I know my fellow cohort members much better than I could have ever hoped for on our first day of class.”
Through immersive, hands-on workshops, mentorship, and access to STEM industry leaders, this 10-week hybrid program equips participants with practical, high-impact skills. LITSI graduates will learn about:
- Develop clear career goals and actionable steps
- Explore postgraduate degrees (Master’s or a Doctorate)
- Practice salary negotiation and understand compensation packages
- Learn about financial planning and long-term wealth strategies
- Navigate workplace dynamics and leadership development
The wide range of topics will help them develop their careers. It meets alumni where they are and propels them toward their goals.
From Scholars to Leaders—and Back Again
Beyond individual growth, the STEM Career Accelerator transforms LITSI alumni into supporters and advocates of the Latinos in Technology Scholars Initiative and HFSV as a whole. These alumni will be able to power the next cohort of LITSI through mentorship and connect them with their network. The Hispanic Foundation continues to work to increase the number of Latinos pursuing STEM careers. By helping our alumni thrive, we are actively increasing Latino talent in the Silicon Valley STEM workforce. If you are a LITSI graduate and are interested in participating in the next cohort of the Career Accelerator, please reach out to Karla Mondragon at karla@hfsv.org.