Patricia Ortiz is one of the stories highlighted by NASA celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, which is held in October in the United States.
Patricia Ortiz is proud to be a first-generation American Salvadoran. Her mother, born and raised in El Salvador, arrived in the United States for a better opportunity without knowing anyone or the English language.
In his role as project manager and space associations at the Armstrong Flight Research Centre of theNational Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in Edwards, California, Ortiz directs various space and aeronautical projects of new technologies ranging from the first phases to their execution. This involves meeting with partners, working with managers and leading the project to achieve the performance and success of the mission.
Reflecting on his career towards NASA, Ortiz honors his mother for her tenacity and the impact it had on her.
My mother faced many obstacles in coming to this country, but she came to this country so I could do this.
His courageous decision to move to an unknown place was what opened the doors to Ortiz to end up working at NASA.
Ortiz likes to stay together to his Salvadoran roots and one way to do it is through food. His favorite dish: the pupuse.
My mother makes the best pupusas with chicharron, cheese and tanning. “They’re delicious,” he said.
Ortiz is one of the stories highlighted by NASA celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, which is celebrated in October, sharing the rich stories, cultures and passions of employees who contribute to the advancement of the mission and the success of the agency for the benefit of all humanity.
This month-long annual celebration honors and recognizes American Hispanics and Latinos who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and our society.
This article has been translated after first appearing in Diario El Mundo