Name: Erick Quintero

Position/Industry: Waste Management, Regional Public Affairs Manager (Utilities Industry)

Graduate Degree: MBA concentration Marketing

Graduation Date: May 2021

What excites you about this job?

Waste Management provides the ability to have a great work-life balance, allowing me to spend time with my growing family. The Regional Public Affairs Manager role provides me the opportunity of working with community organizations and elected officials to develop community-driven projects and programs.

How did you strategize landing this position?  

I maintained open lines of communication with my previous supervisor and Waste Management’s local management. Throughout the Chapman MBA program, I would share updates/highlights about my academic journey with previous colleagues. I was able to persuade area management to open the Regional Public Affairs Manager role to allow me to return to the organization. Leveraging relationships and past success allowed me to position myself as an asset to the company.

Give students some career advice for anyone looking for an internship/job in this market.

Focus on developing authentic relationships with organizations and people. Leverage existing networks to connect you with potential employers or to provide career advice. Being yourself is critical given that many people can see through facades. Lastly, be confident in what you bring to the table and know your worth.