Omar Escamilla is a program manager on Adobe’s diversity, equity, and inclusion team, where he leads the strategy and management of Adobe For All Week, a yearly company-wide diversity and inclusion experience. In addition, Escamilla partners with other Adobe teams like product equity, corporate social responsibility, and integrated communications to ensure DEI is a driving force across their initiatives.
What is your greatest career accomplishment to date?
My greatest career accomplishment has been successfully breaking into the tech sector from an education policy background. This transition has allowed me to find a field and role where I can work at the intersection of innovation, social good, and creativity. I’m proud to contribute to projects that not only drive technological advancement but also have a meaningful impact on society.
What is your greatest personal accomplishment to date?
My greatest personal accomplishment to date has been receiving full funding through academic scholarships to complete both my undergraduate and graduate degrees with no debt. As a child of immigrant parents and the first person in my family to receive a US education, getting a college education felt unattainable at times. However, my dedication to my academics allowed me to pursue my passion without the financial burden, which is something I’m incredibly proud of.
What do you do today to impact your community?
Today, I continue to my mission of bringing more queer and Latin(a/o) folks into the technology space and work closely with Out In Tech and Techqueria in New York City. Building and giving back to my community are key to the impact I want to make. I attribute my success and accomplishments to the support and network provided by my community. I am so proud of my Latino identity and hope to be a leader in the community by encouraging other Latinos to dream big and reach their dreams.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself continuing to work on building sustainable solutions to social issues through creativity and innovation. I’m committed to leveraging technology and creative strategies to make a meaningful impact.
What is the biggest issue that you want to help solve, and why?
The biggest issue I want to help solve is access to education on a global scale. My passion for education is rooted in my inherent desire to continuously educate myself. The more knowledge I pursue, the more insight I gain into the lives of others whose stories often go unnoticed. Education has profoundly changed my life, and I believe it has the power to do the same for others. That’s why I’m committed to contributing to efforts that ensure all people, regardless of their circumstances, have access to quality learning opportunities.
What is a surprising hobby or interest that helps you stay creative and energized?
A hobby that helps me stay creative and energized is traveling. My curiosity for learning about different cultures, trying new foods, and exploring has taken me to some of the most beautiful places around the world. Each trip recharges me, and I always return home inspired and ready to add another destination to my list.
What is your Latino background?
I am Mexican. I was born in Pachuca, Hidalgo, and moved to the USA at the age of seven to Chicago, Illinois.
What song do you listen to that motivates you?
“Empire State of Mind” by Jay-Z and Alicia Keys.
