Adelante quickly became a powerful force within EchoStar. Starting with a small group of founders, it has grown to over 700 registered members and a mailing list of over 2,000. The ERG provides workshops, training and networking opportunities, empowering members to advance their careers within EchoStar and the broader telecommunications landscape. Gus’s passion for professional development, honed through years of experience, fuels Adelante's success. He sees the ERG as a vehicle for members to not only stay true to their culture but also to achieve their professional aspirations.
Adelante’s impact is undeniable. The ERG has been recognized with external awards, competing with and often surpassing similar groups at other major corporations in the telecom sector. “My fuel, my encouragement every day when I come in,” Gus shares, “is, did I touch somebody else’s life? Are they now interested in participating not only with Adelante, but staying at EchoStar to improve their careers in telecommunications?” Members have shared countless stories of how Adelante has helped them gain new skills, network with leaders and ultimately advance their careers. The ERG's success is a testament to Gus’s leadership and his unwavering commitment to his mission.
“My fuel, my encouragement every day when I come in is, did I touch somebody else’s life? Are they now interested in participating not only with Adelante, but staying at EchoStar to improve their careers in telecommunications? My goal is to help people build their careers and reach their potential.”
— Gus Barajas, Senior Sourcing Manager, Retail Wireless Supply Chain Management
Beyond Adelante, Gus's leadership extends to his role in supply chain management. He has played a key role in consolidating spend, reducing costs and streamlining processes within the organization. He emphasizes the importance of education and best practices, encouraging his team members to pursue certifications through organizations like the Association of Supply Chain Management (ASCM), for which he serves as company coordinator. He believes in empowering his team to learn from other industries and apply those learnings within EchoStar, fostering a culture of continuous improvement in the dynamic telecom environment.
When asked about the challenges he has faced, Gus emphasizes the importance of resilience and staying true to one's values. He acknowledges that there will always be resistance to change, especially in a rapidly evolving industry like telecommunications, but focusing on the mission is key to overcoming adversity. He stresses the importance of prioritizing initiatives and avoiding distractions to stay focused on core objectives.
Gus's leadership philosophy is simple yet powerful: "Say what you're going to do, and then do what you said." He believes in leading by example, demonstrating integrity and commitment in all his actions. He encourages aspiring leaders to follow their hearts and pursue their passions, believing that success will follow.
“One piece of advice that always stuck with me was to ‘Say what you're going to do, and then do what you said.’ And I believe sometimes this simple approach is the key to efficiency and success.”
— Gus Barajas, Senior Sourcing Manager, Retail Wireless Supply Chain Management
Gus’s journey, from seeking an opportunity to his impactful work connecting team members at EchoStar, is a testament to the power of resilience, passion and a commitment to helping others. He embodies the true spirit of leadership, not just by what he says, but by what he does, leaving a lasting impact on his team, his community and the EchoStar team members he supports. His story is a reminder to embrace opportunity and invest in people, one person can uplift so many others.
