CHCI Provides Stepping Stone to Success

Juan Otero, Vice President of Federal Government Affairs for Comcast NBCUniversal

Last week, I accepted a promotion to Vice President of Federal Government Affairs for Comcast NBCUniversal. As I begin my new role within a company that I have enjoyed working with for years, I reflect on the stepping stones that have helped me reach success in my profession. Looking back, my time as a fellow with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute stands out as a pivotal moment in my personal and professional trajectory. CHCI gave me the opportunity to develop the skills and the network needed to launch my career.

During my time as a fellow, I worked at the National League of Cities, where I continued working for the next seven years. I interacted with Members of Congress, as well as private and public sector leaders, giving me the exposure and confidence necessary to excel in a competitive workforce. I was able to leverage these experiences while working at the National Governors Association, the Department of Homeland Security, and later, the Comcast Corporation. I will have an opportunity to continue using the skills I developed as a CHCI Fellow in my new role handling federal legislative advocacy and representing Comcast NBCUniversal with Members of Congress and the Administration.

As a child of working-class parents from the South Bronx, I was not given many opportunities to experience all that Washington, DC has to offer. CHCI afforded me that opportunity and continues to do so for many Latino youth today. I know that many other fellows who are enjoying fulfilling careers can trace their success back to CHCI, just as I do. The lessons learned, life-long friendships and experiences formed during my fellowship will continue to guide me in my new and exciting role.

Today, I proudly serve on the CHCI board with the strong support of Comcast NBCU and it is one of the best parts of my job.