Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1010702
www.HartfordBusiness.com • August 6, 2018 • Hartford Business Journal 27 40 UNDER FORTY 2018 L uis A. Valdez-Jimenez focuses on converting legal and regulatory risks into competitive advance. Since coming to UTC Aerospace Sys- tems, he has excelled in negotiating contractual terms and conditions and helping to ensure compliance with vari- ous forms of regulatory requirements. He is also very active in his com- munity and is a board member of the United Way Emerging Leaders Society, Prospanica, and the Connecticut Gener- al Assembly Commission on Equity and Opportunity. Previously he graduated with his law degree and MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his bachelor's degree in political science from Florida International University. What's been your biggest professional accomplishment? I supported a key initiative to find a supplier for a key internal process by supporting the lead negotiator in the contract negotiations. During the process I helped to exchange propos- als with the supplier and I had to ob- tain approvals from senior manage- ment, including a vice president, for the negotiation results. Ultimately, the contract was signed, resulting in mitigated risks, significant cost sav- ings and improved process results. How are you involved in the community? I currently serve as the chair of the United Way Emerging Leader's Soci- ety Steering Committee and on the board of Prospanica. I was also ap- pointed by the state House minority leader to serve on the State Commis- sion on Equity and Opportunity. What do you like to do outside of work? I am consumed by wanderlust. I am passionate about traveling, learning about other cultures, good food and drink, and immersing myself in a new experience. I also love to read, volun- teer and enjoy time with family. Give an example of a people-skills habit you adhere to in your work and daily life that you feel has helped you succeed. I always try to avoid assuming the worst about people. When people do something they should not, I first try to think "Did they know better?" "Have they been trained?" "Am I mis- understanding something?" What must the Greater Hartford region do to attract more talented young professionals to the area? The Greater Hartford region needs to invest in improving public trans- portation, resolve the state financial crisis, reduce cost of living and taxes, and bring in new employers. Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty: • Earned several recognitions at work for completing complex and risky assignments. • Appointed to a state commission to work with lawmakers and com- munity leaders on policy issues affecting minority communities. • Leader in multiple community and philanthropic organizations. • Published articles on various legal issues. Fun Fact I am the first person in my family to be born in the United States. Luis A. Valdez-Jimenez Age: 30 Company: UTC Aerospace Systems Title: Supply Chain Contracts Specialist No. of years with current company: 3 Town where I live: Windsor Locks Town where I work: Windsor Locks College: University of Wisconsin- Madison Highest degree: Law degree and MBA "Congratulations to Andrew Salak on being named to this year's 40 under 40 class! As an Associate Director in FIA's Private Client Group, you have been instrumental in our growth up to $1.4 billion in private client assets over the past four years. Thank you for your dedication, hard work and value you have created for clients." - Mark Wetzel, President of FIA. w w w. fi a l l c . c o m 866.466.9412 toll free Windsor, CT Boston, MA Kennebunk, ME FIA Congratulates Andrew Salak Hartford Business Journal 40 Under 40 Class of 2018 HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | 860.236.9998 ADVERTISING@HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM DRIVING YOUR BUSINESS THROUGH OUR GROWING DIGITAL TRAFFIC Limited E-news and website advertising opportunities available. Don't miss your chance, advertise today! Advertising@hartfordbusiness.com