Every Crewmember has a story worth celebrating, and our Spotlights shine a light on the journeys, experiences, and voices that shape OTG. This month, in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to celebrate the contributions and achievements of our Hispanic and Latino Crewmembers, whose talent and passion enrich our community every day.
Hispanic Heritage Month runs from September 15 to October 15, honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. The timing was chosen to align with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, making it a powerful period of celebration.
At OTG, we’re committed to fostering a workplace where everyone feels seen, valued, and appreciated—a culture built on inclusivity and belonging. We invite you to check out our Crewmember Spotlights below and join us in celebrating their stories.
Juan Jose Copello
Security Access Manager, EWR
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to learn about the sacrifices of those who came before us and to honor the many Latin cultures that shape who we are today. My mother, Peruvian by blood and Latina through and through, is my greatest inspiration. She is dedicated, loyal, genuine, and taught me to live with pride in where I come from. As a Latino, I carry that pride every day. I am proud of what I can provide to others & proud of how she raised me.
Celebrating cultural heritage in the workplace helps Crewmembers feel seen, valued, and connected. Latin culture is vast and interwoven with many other ethnicities, so October recognition feels like we are honoring many cultures at once.
David Rodriguez
Talent Acquisition Recruiter, PAS
To me, heritage is about looking forward. It is the can-do attitude I see in every Latino who is invested in creating a better life. It is fueled by my grandmother’s reminder that “there is so much to be done,” and that changing tasks is the best way to rest. I see it in the people who work multiple jobs and in the eyes of Latino teachers, leaders, artists, and creators who are shaping the world. “Pa’lante” (forward) is not just a direction, it is a reflection, a rhythm of life, and the optimal speed.
I see myself as a product of two cultures. My Peruvian upbringing gave me strong family values, hospitality, and a belief in community. It taught me to find joy in simple things and to approach life with sabor. The immigrant journey honed my independence, problem-solving skills, and global perspective. This bicultural identity allows me to see situations from multiple viewpoints, making me a more well-rounded and understanding person. I carry the warmth of Lima in my heart, combined with the drive and open-mindedness I gained from building a new life here.
The person who inspires me most is my mother. She instilled in me a set of life values and work ethics that guide everything I do. She taught me the importance of respecting everyone, and that even with challenging tasks, you can find joy by approaching them with positivity. Her belief in being the best at whatever position you hold has always pushed me to strive for growth and pride in my work.
At OTG, I have experienced firsthand how celebrating cultural heritage strengthens teams, sparks creativity, and builds global competency. My own journey began as an Operations Manager, and OTG was instrumental in helping me grow into a Talent Acquisition Recruiter. Through professional development opportunities, valuable connections, and ongoing feedback, the company has provided the foundation for my success.
Jacqueline Tinjaca
Operations Director, EWR
My culture has instilled in me a deep sense of community, hard work, and perseverance, with family at the center. It has taught me to lead with empathy and stay grounded. I am especially inspired by my family, whose sacrifices and love continue to motivate me every day. That is why I value being part of a company like OTG, where diversity is embraced and cultural heritage is celebrated. OTG has supported my growth both personally and professionally by fostering an inclusive environment where I feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Loriana Yaport
Human Resources Business Partner, PAS
Hispanic Heritage Month is a reminder of the impact my culture has had on society through the arts and music. Being half Puerto Rican and Dominican, my life has always been surrounded by music, and growing up in the Bronx exposed me to that culture through both family and community.
My culture has shaped me to be strong, grounded, and independent. My greatest inspiration is my grandmother, Genoveva, or “Mama,” who was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico and brought the essence of our culture into the kitchen. From carne guisada to arroz con leche, she taught us who we were through food and stories around the kitchen table. Even when we could not afford to visit Puerto Rico or the Dominican Republic, I experienced our culture through her love and traditions.
Celebrating cultural heritage at companies like OTG is a reminder to be open-minded, to listen, and to learn from other cultures. It shows how, despite our different backgrounds, we share common links that bring us together. OTG has supported me by allowing me to be my authentic self and reminding me that being of Hispanic heritage is something to embrace. Sometimes, even my Spanglish comes in handy.
