Employee Spotlight - Vincent Guerrero

Photo of Vincent Guerrero
July 31, 2022
Tell me about your current role at Yale University?
 
I am the Director of Advanced Technology at the School of Architecture.
 
What are your main responsibilities?
 
In this role, I lead the advanced technology department, which supports students, faculty, and staff at the School of Architecture. Our department provides traditional IT support, in addition to many other tools and technologies, such as 3D printing, 3D scanning, laser cutting, VR, robotics, and more.
 
What do you like most about your work?
 
I enjoy working on such a variety of projects which cover so many aspects of the field, like classroom technology, software development, digital fabrication, and even drones. I am fortunate to be able to work closely with our students, who create amazing work. I am always inspired by them. We also have a wonderful staff and faculty. I find the work very rewarding and the environment energizing.
 
How does your job affect your general lifestyle?
 
I am very excited by technology, so I tend to take some of my work home with me, whether it means researching something new, reading up on a specific topic, or brainstorming.
 
How did you begin your career?
 
I started out by managing a computer lab at my local Boys and Girl’s Club. From there, I was able to land my first job in IT as a Systems Administrator. 
 
What steps would you recommend one take to prepare to enter this field?
 
Finding an area of technology that you enjoy and are passionate about is a great place to start. I would also suggest looking for opportunities to learn from others among the Yale community or connecting with a mentor. 
 
What skills, abilities, and personal attributes are essential to success in your job/this field?
 
I find that staying committed to being a lifelong learner is essential as technology is changing and expanding every day. When new technologies emerge, demand for expertise grows, which can make for exciting opportunities. In AT, we adopt new technologies frequently, which underscores the importance of staying current and maintaining an awareness of what is on the horizon. It is also very important to continue improving problem solving and communication skills.
 
If you could do it all over again, would you choose the same path for yourself? If not, what would you change?
 
I would not change my path. All of the experiences I have had professionally were instrumental in how my career has progressed.
 
What does YLNG mean to you and how have you contributed as a member of the Steering Committee?
 
YLNG does great work while bringing together the Latino community at Yale. I joined some years ago, but I have not dedicated as much time as I would have liked in recent years. I learned of this year’s Mother’s Day Outreach Drive, and it inspired me to re-engage with the group and find ways that I can contribute. The steering committee meetings have an open door and the group is very welcoming.