10 Questions for Samaly Sánchez Muñoz
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Happy Hispanic Heritage Month! To celebrate, we’re sharing interviews with Hispanic leaders from across Northwest Pipe Company, as they discuss their experiences and consider what Hispanic Heritage Month means to them.
10 Questions for Samaly Sánchez Muñoz
With over a decade of experience in the field, Samaly Sánchez Muñoz has carved a career path she loves as a human resources professional. Today, as a Division Human Resources Manager based out of Saginaw, Texas, Samaly provides leadership and support to the HR teams at five NWP manufacturing plants. In her role, she works closely with business unit leaders, operations managers, and corporate HR to accomplish strategic organizational goals, champion our core values, and cultivate an inclusive and positive working environment for all team members.
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1. What is your job title and how long have you been with Northwest Pipe Company?
My current job title is Division Human Resources Manager, and I’ve been with NWP for four years.
2. Describe the journey leading to your current position?
I started working in the HR field in Puerto Rico after completing my degree. Approximately seven years later, facing a saturated job market, I decided to move to Texas. Being a strong believer in always hoping for the best, in 2017 I got the opportunity to work for NWP—and here I am now.
3. What’s the most exciting thing about your job?
The most exciting thing about my job is the people I work with. I find fulfillment in supporting others so they can develop their potential while contributing to meet the organization’s objectives.
4. Name two things that always brighten your day— one at work and one outside of work?
At work, being able to see how the new strategies our team is implementing are positively transforming and influencing our organization. Outside of work, besides having a cup of coffee, seeing the happy faces of my children when I return home.
5. The theme of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month is Esperanza: A Celebration of Hispanic Heritage and Hope. How does this theme of resilience and hope resonate with you?
This year’s theme makes me think about how being resilient and holding onto hope has traced my way through life. Something that characterizes me is that no matter what challenges I encounter, whether personal or professional, I always stay positive. I am also grateful for the circumstances that taught me to hold onto hope. When you hold onto hope, anything is possible.
6. Which current or historical figure of Hispanic Heritage do you admire most for their leadership, contributions, or service to others and why?
Roberto Clemente—Clemente is one of the greatest athletes and humanitarians of the 20th century. He was proud of his Puerto Rican heritage and he advocated for greater accessibility and equality for Latino Americans; both within the MLB and outside of it. Roberto once said, “I want to be remembered as a ballplayer who gave all he had to give.” Roberto considered himself a servant to the people who needed him and this is what I admire the most about him.
7. Name someone in your life who inspires you and why?
My mother is my biggest inspiration. I admire everything about her personality. From her strength to overcome adversities to her ability to organize her time to help anyone who needs it—and still making time to listen to me. She has taught me how to face any kind of situation, and even so, respected my choices, thoughts, and opinions. I am fortunate to have the mother life has given me and would be even more fortunate if I ever become half of the wonderful human being that she is.
8. What advice do you have for individuals entering your profession?
Confucius once said, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” By choosing a job you love, you will develop wonderful professional experiences. Working in HR is both challenging and rewarding. So, always do your best in supporting your organization and its people. Manage changes effectively and never stop learning.
9. Are there any family traditions significant to you in celebrating your heritage?
In Puerto Rico, we celebrate “La Semana de la Puertorriqueñidad” (The Puerto Rican week). During this week, we have activities that promote our culture and traditions for our children and younger generations to keep. Another tradition I enjoy with my family is “El Día de los Reyes” (Kings Day), which we celebrate every year on January 6.
10. What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
It means to remember where we come from, to honor the contributions of our Hispanic ancestors, and to keep our traditions and culture alive.