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Awarepreneurs
#1032 Awarepreneurs template - Rudy Parra
🔖 Titles
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1. Bootstraps and Bootcamps: Rudy Parra on Building New Mexico's Tech Pathways
2. From Tinkering to Tech: Rudy Parra’s Journey Through New Mexico’s Innovation Scene
3. Navigating Tech Careers: Rudy Parra’s Story of Community, Internships, and Opportunity
4. GridFlow and Beyond: How Rudy Parra Built a Career in New Mexico Tech
5. Breaking Barriers in Tech: Nontraditional Paths and Community Support with Rudy Parra
6. Atomic 66 and Tech Networking: Energizing New Mexico’s Innovation Community
7. Impostor Syndrome, Internships, and Inclusive Tech Careers with Rudy Parra
8. New Mexico’s Tech Ecosystem: Bootcamps, Startups, and Local Community Insights
9. Leveraging Community College for Success: Rudy Parra’s Advice for Aspiring Tech Professionals
10. Getting Into Tech in New Mexico: Rudy Parra on Networks, Bootcamps, and Building Skills
💬 Keywords
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New Mexico tech ecosystem, tech startups, bootcamps, STEM education, IoT integration, rapid prototyping, career pathways, community college programs, renewable energy, lithium-sulfur batteries, GridFlow, networking events, entrepreneurship, diversity in tech, CNM Ingenuity, Growth Sector, internships, data analytics, robotics, material science, hackspace clubs, resume building, mock interviews, Techaria, Blacks in Tech, NM Climate, Atomic 66, tech hubs, tech meetups, climate tech, social entrepreneurship
💡 Speaker bios
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Paul Zelizer is the host of the Awarepreneurs podcast, where he explores insights and experiences from renowned social entrepreneurs around the globe. Driven by a passion for helping listeners grow their positive impact, profitability, and quality of life through values-based business, Paul creates a platform that empowers others to make a meaningful difference. Each episode, he invites innovators—like Rudy Pada, a mechatronics expert pioneering energy solutions at GridFlow—to share their journeys, inspiring audiences to pursue purposeful and impactful work.
ℹ️ Introduction
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Welcome to a dynamic new episode of Awarepreneurs! This week, host Paul Zelizer sits down with Rudy Parra, a mechatronics and lab technician at GridFlow, to explore the unconventional paths that are opening doors into New Mexico’s rapidly expanding tech sector. The conversation—titled “Bootstraps and Bootcamps: New Mexico’s Pathways into Tech”—dives into Rudy’s inspiring journey as a nontraditional student who, despite early setbacks and uncertainty about his direction, carved out a place for himself in the world of robotics, IoT, and sustainable energy.
Rudy shares how he went from tinkering with broken toys as a kid to landing roles with cutting-edge startups, thanks to hands-on learning opportunities like the CNM IoT Bootcamp and local STEM programs. The episode unpacks the power of bootcamps, mentorship, community colleges, and networking hubs like Techquería and NM Climate in helping diverse talent find their way into the innovation economy.
You’ll hear candid insights about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of showing up at community events (and eating the leftover sandwiches!), and the critical role of peer networks in career growth. Plus, Paul and Rudy preview Atomic 66—a groundbreaking, free tech and innovation festival happening soon in Albuquerque.
Whether you’re a student, career changer, founder, or just curious about the vibrant New Mexico tech scene, this episode is packed with wisdom on building community, leveraging local resources, and helping the next generation thrive in tech.
❇️ Key topics and bullets
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Absolutely! Here’s a comprehensive sequence of the main topics covered in this episode of Awarepreneurs, “Bootstraps and Bootcamps: New Mexico’s Pathways into Tech,” featuring Rudy Parra, with primary topics and sub-topic bullets under each:
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**1. Introduction to Rudy Parra and the Episode**
- Host Paul Zelizer introduces the podcast purpose and audience.
- Introduction of Rudy Parra as guest, his role at GridFlow, and his background.
- Disclosure of Paul and Rudy’s collaboration on local tech events and projects.
**2. Rudy’s Unconventional Journey Into Tech**
- Early life health challenges and limitations on physical activity.
- Development of curiosity and passion for tinkering and technology as a child.
- Challenging traditional academic excellence expectations (describing being a C student).
- Initial higher education pathway: starting at Central New Mexico Community College (CNM) instead of a four-year university.
**3. Discovering Educational Opportunities in Tech**
- Explanation of CNM and its significance for New Mexicans.
- Enrollment in the STEM Core program, supported by Growth Sector, helping underrepresented students enter STEM.
- Recognition of alternative paths into tech: bootcamps, internships, and mentorship.
**4. The IoT Bootcamp Experience**
- Detailed overview of the CNM Ingenuity IoT Bootcamp: expectations and schedule.
- Value of hands-on learning in robotics, coding, and rapid prototyping.
- Comparison of experiences in computer science vs. more hands-on tech paths.
**5. Importance of Internships and Real-World Experience**
- Rudy’s multiple internships: National Solar Observatory (data analytics), Lockheed Martin (OS imaging), and Coe College (material science).
- Emphasis on adaptability, self-learning (including through YouTube), and pivoting between industries.
- How internships extended educational experience and facilitated networking.
**6. Breaking Into the Tech Startup Scene**
- First industry job through bootcamp instructor connection: Telemetry Insights.
- Transition to GridFlow after initial contract and company funding.
- GridFlow’s growth from scratch: building lab operations, establishing procedures, and manufacturing batteries.
**7. Overcoming Barriers and Entrenched Myths About Tech Careers**
- Discussion of imposter syndrome and how it impacts newcomers.
- Encouragement for ambition and learning mindset, especially for first-generation students.
- Importance of engaging in organizations, clubs, and networking events for exposure and opportunity.
- Practical tips: attending often-overlooked campus or community events, joining clubs, and leveraging bulletin boards.
**8. The Role of Community and Networking Groups**
- The significance of sector-specific groups (e.g., Techaría, NM Climate, NM Tech Talks) in building networks and career opportunities.
- The power of repeated participation and visibility within these groups.
- Volunteering and contributing skills to community organizations (e.g., social media, event support).
**9. Expansion of Tech and Innovation Ecosystem in New Mexico**
- Observation of increased tech/innovation activity in New Mexico since the early 1990s.
- Importance of community-driven efforts like NM Tech Talks and Atomic 66.
**10. Spotlight on Atomic 66 and NM Tech Talks**
- Overview of Atomic 66: multi-day, multi-track technology and innovation festival in Albuquerque’s Nob Hill.
- Sub-events/threads: Space Fiesta, happy hours, NM Tech Talks.
- NM Tech Talks breakdown: day-long tracks focused on AI/software, entrepreneurship, tech access, climate/advanced energy, plus mentorship corners (e.g., resume/interview help).
- Emphasis that event access is free and open.
**11. Bridging Gaps: Making Tech Accessible for the Next Generation**
- Rudy’s transition from outsider to leadership; difference a few years and engagement makes.
- Affirmation that pathways (bootcamps, internships, events) remain open and viable for newcomers.
**12. Reflection on Education-to-Industry Transitions in New Mexico**
- Anecdotes about specific programs at CNM, and national appeal (students relocating for bootcamp opportunities).
- Observing changes and expanded access compared to previous decades.
- Role of real-world learning in readiness for further education or industry entry.
**13. Startup Culture and Fundraising in New Mexico**
- Discussion of fundraising experiences, pitch competitions, and the importance of relationship networks to startup success.
- Encouraging founders to engage with local tech communities rather than remaining isolated.
**14. Considerations for New Mexico’s Tech Future**
- Vision for growing the tech ecosystem beyond Albuquerque—statewide presence.
- Need for more “hubs” for innovation, inclusion of non-tech sectors (e.g., arts, film), and regional involvement.
- Advocacy for energy innovation as a cornerstone for New Mexico’s future, especially given AI and advanced computing needs.
- Interest in more live demos and public showcases of tech innovation.
**15. Closing Thoughts and Takeaways**
- Rudy’s advice: If you want it, you can get it—resources exist in and out of school.
- Encouragement to tap into both institutional and grassroots networks.
- Final call to action: how to connect with Rudy, and encouragement to participate in local tech communities and events.
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This sequence captures the major themes and illustrates each sub-topic as they were developed in the conversation. If you want more detail on any specific section, just let me know!
📚 Timestamped overview
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00:00 "Awarepreneurs: Bootstraps to Tech Pathways"
04:50 "Discovering IoT Through CNM Programs"
07:20 Career Journey: Diverse Internships
11:25 Internships Bridged College to Career
16:15 "Finding Opportunities at CNM"
19:22 Discovering Tech Community in Albuquerque
20:37 Latinos in STEM Networking Hub
26:38 "Scaling Tech in New Mexico"
30:11 "Atomic 66 Vision and Launch"
31:41 "Impact Venture Strategy Session"
35:37 Cybersecurity Opportunity Spurs Big Move
37:40 "Finding Direction After College Gap"
41:19 "Connecting in New Mexico Tech"
46:52 "Energy's Growing Importance & Innovation"
50:12 "Promote Local Groups and Events"
51:21 Employment
🎞️ Clipfinder: Quotes, Hooks, & Timestamps
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Rudy Parra
00:05:29
00:05:57
Viral Topic: Breaking Into STEM as an Underrepresented Student
"Because of that program, I relied heavily on the advisor, and she was like, hey. There's this program called the IoT boot camp at CNM Ingenuity. CNM Ingenuity is another branch of the institution of the community college, and there was some funding, you know, but the catch is you spend four hundred hours for the next four months, five days out of the week, eight hours out of the day, and you're just learning robotics, coding, IoT."
Rudy Parra
00:08:06
00:08:17
Topic: Embracing the Unknown in Internships
Quote: "Every single thing was just like, I don't know anything, but I'm going to learn it, and we'll see how we how we pivot. And a lot of YouTube videos."
Rudy Parra
00:12:33
00:12:34
Viral Topic: The Power of Networking in Community College Opportunities: "I realized, like, networking is so essential because, you know, because of that, I was able to get, you know, these internships."
Rudy Parra
00:14:51
00:15:35
From Ambition to Action: "As long as you have that, you have everything. Because, you know, another advice that I I wanna give them is, okay. Well, great. I have that now. Where do I go next? Organizations, clubs, you know, get yourself involved. And I think that's what helped me as CNN provided me not only the education to obtain my CIS degree, but it provided me outlets because I knew that, yes, I was working for that degree, but I knew what was important. And that is building myself within the community to find more things to do, you know? And that is that's what ultimately got me here to this day is because I didn't just sit in that classroom."
Rudy Parra
00:16:29
00:16:33
Unexpected Opportunities from Overlooked Flyers: "Everyone ignored those things, and that's what kinda got me in."
Rudy Parra
00:20:08
00:20:18
Hidden Tech Communities in New Mexico: "I realized that there is a solid community in Albuquerque where it's, you know, a tech start up. You know? And there are tech people, and I I was just out of it."
Rudy Parra
00:21:02
00:21:07
Latinos in STEM Representation: "You tell me that there's a Latinos in STEM organization? And I had no idea of this."
Rudy Parra
00:28:24
00:28:31
Building Community in New Mexico Tech: "But what we don't have is a hub for us to kinda get together and share all of these things in the state of New Mexico."
Rudy Parra
00:29:27
00:29:40
Building Innovation Hubs in New Mexico: "But we need more, I I call them hubs, you know, in a way to kinda gather us to together for that because, you know, it's very easy for one to think, oh, wow. This state is quiet."
Rudy Parra
00:46:59
00:47:12
Viral Topic: The Future of Energy and AI: "energy is such a big thing, and it's so important. You know? And it's always been important, and it's only only gonna be more important with the rise of AI and these server forms. We can do all those things, but we just don't have the power to power it."
🎬 Reel script
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Are you curious how to launch a rewarding tech career without following the traditional path? In this episode, I spoke with Rudy Parra from GridFlow, who shared how he went from tinkering at home to helping build next-generation energy solutions—all by leveraging bootcamps, networking, and community programs in New Mexico. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options in tech or wondering how to break in, Rudy’s story proves ambition, curiosity, and showing up in your community can open amazing doors. Dive in, get connected, and build your own path in tech!
👩💻 LinkedIn post
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Absolutely! Here’s a LinkedIn post using the transcript from the Awarepreneurs podcast episode featuring Rudy Parra and host Paul Zelizer:
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Excited to share insights from my recent conversation on the Awarepreneurs Podcast with Paul Zelizer! We explored how nontraditional pathways, bootcamps, and a commitment to community can open doors in the tech world—especially here in New Mexico.
My journey from a C-average, first-gen student to working on next-generation batteries at GridFlow has taught me a few invaluable lessons:
**Key Takeaways:**
🔹 **There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Path Into Tech:** Whether you’re coming from a two-year degree, a bootcamp, or a nontraditional background, your curiosity and drive matter more than a perfect transcript. There are many doors into the industry.
🔹 **Get Out of Your Comfort Zone & Get Involved:** So much of my growth has come from joining clubs, showing up to community events (even when it felt awkward!), and saying “yes” to opportunities—even if I didn’t feel 100% ready.
🔹 **Your Network Is Your Superpower:** Networking with groups like Techeria, NM Climate, and others not only helped me land my current role but continues to expose me to ideas, collaboration, and mentorship every step of the way.
If you’re interested in breaking into tech, know that programs, people, and support are out there—sometimes right in your own community. And if you’re in New Mexico, don’t miss events like Atomic 66, Techeria meetups, and the many growing opportunities in our ecosystem.
Let’s keep building pathways and supporting each other—reach out if you want to connect, share your story, or need advice!
#TechCareers #Community #NewMexicoTech #GridFlow #Awarepreneurs #CareerJourney #Startups #IoT #DiversityInTech
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🗞️ Newsletter
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**Subject:** How to Break Into Tech in New Mexico—Rudy Parra’s Inspiring Journey (and Opportunities Ahead!)
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Hello Awarepreneurs Community,
Our latest episode is overflowing with inspiration and actionable advice—especially for anyone considering a career in tech, or just wanting to know how New Mexico’s innovation ecosystem is blossoming.
**Bootstraps & Bootcamps: New Mexico’s Pathways into Tech**
We sat down with Rudy Parra, a mechatronics and lab technician at GridFlow, whose journey showcases just how unconventional, welcoming, and opportunity-rich New Mexico’s tech sector has become.
#### Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:
**🛠️ A Nontraditional Path—From Indoors to Ingenuity**
Rudy opens up about being a “nontraditional student” who spent childhood tinkering inside due to health issues. That curiosity eventually turned into passion—and a profession—using New Mexico’s accessible education and career-building bootcamps. Rudy’s story is a testament to the value of perseverance, curiosity, and saying “yes” to new opportunities.
**🚀 Bootcamps & Community Colleges: Launchpads for Success**
Think you need a four-year degree to get started in tech? Rudy’s journey through CNM (Central New Mexico Community College), the STEM Core program, and the IoT Bootcamp shows how alternative pathways can lead straight into exciting jobs—plus paid internships with heavyweights like National Solar Observatory and Lockheed Martin.
**🌎 The Power of Networking (and Showing Up!)**
Rudy shares how simply “showing up” at events, joining clubs, and being proactive unlocked his career and built lasting relationships in the industry. Whether you’re an introvert or just uncertain, his advice: keep stepping outside your comfort zone. The New Mexico tech scene is bustling with meetups—Techaria, NM Climate, and more—ready to welcome you.
**🎉 Atomic66 – New Mexico’s Innovation Festival Is Here!**
If you’re local (or want to visit!), don’t miss out: **Atomic66** is coming up June 11–13 in Nob Hill, Albuquerque. There’ll be day-long tracks on software/AI, entrepreneurship, tech access, advanced energy, and more, all FREE to the public! Plus, mentorship opportunities and mock interviews for those prepping their own tech journeys. We’ll be there—will you?
**🌟 Wisdom from Rudy: “If you want it, you can get it.”**
Rudy’s closing message is simple and powerful: Resources are out there, school isn’t the only way, and New Mexico’s entrepreneurs are eager to help. Dive in, connect, and be part of this growing, inclusive tech community!
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**🎧 Listen to the episode for more details, stories, and resources!**
**🔗 Helpful Links from the Show:**
- [Atomic66 Event Info](#)
- [Techaria](#)
- [New Mexico Climate](#)
- [CNM Ingenuity & Bootcamps](#)
- [Connect with Rudy Parra on LinkedIn](#)
We love hearing from you! If you have ideas for future guests or topics, please click [here](#) to suggest them.
Thank you for being part of a values-driven business community—and for all the positive impact you’re creating in the world.
Stay inspired,
Paul & the Awarepreneurs Team
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_P.S. Please share this episode with a friend who’s curious about tech—especially if they think it’s “not for them.” New Mexico is showing there’s room for everyone!_
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**Follow us on [LinkedIn](#) | [Twitter](#) | [Subscribe to the Podcast](#)**
🧵 Tweet thread
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🚀 THREAD: How to Break Into the Tech World—From Bootstraps to Bootcamps in New Mexico! 💡
1/ Meet Rudy Parra—a self-described “nontraditional student” who went from tinkering with Transformers as a kid to helping build the batteries powering tomorrow’s grid ⚡️. His journey proves you don’t need a “straight A” past to have a powerful tech future.
2/ Rudy’s path wasn’t the classic 4-year degree. Health issues kept him indoors as a child, where curiosity ruled: “I would take apart toys as a kid... My parents would get mad at me!” But that curiosity sparked a lifelong passion for tinkering and tech.
3/ After high school, Rudy started at @CNM (Central New Mexico Community College)—not a fancy university, but a place that changed everything. “I knew I wanted to work with technology my whole life... but I didn’t know what the options were.”
4/ It was at CNM and through programs like STEM Core (for underrepresented students) that he discovered his calling. His advisor said: “There’s this IoT bootcamp at CNM Ingenuity. 400 hours, 4 months, 5 days a week—just learning robotics, coding, IoT.” Rudy: “Where has this been all my life?!”
5/ The results? Multiple internships—National Solar Observatory (data science during COVID), Lockheed Martin (operating systems), labs in Iowa (material science), and more. Did Rudy always know what he was doing? “No. But YouTube videos and self-teaching saved the day.”
6/ Key takeaway: “I wasn’t a typical student. I prolonged community college for internship after internship—because I got paid to learn! Who wouldn’t?” 🚀
7/ That experience led to opportunities at New Mexico startups like GridFlow, where Rudy now supports cutting-edge battery tech for a cleaner, smarter grid.
8/ Worried tech isn’t for you? Rudy’s advice: “Imposter syndrome never goes away. I didn’t get internet until I was a senior in high school. What mattered was ambition and wanting to learn.”
9/ How did he really break in? Not just classes—COMMUNITY. Clubs, grassroots events, career fairs others skip (“Go for the free sandwiches — and the connections!”). “Leaving the classroom opened every door.”
10/ He credits NM groups like @Techqueria, NM Climate Now, and Atomic 66 for building a real, supportive tech community—especially for Latinx and other underrepresented voices.
11/ Now, Rudy’s not just a participant—he’s a leader, organizing tech tracks for events like #Atomic66 (June 11-13 in Albuquerque). All FREE. “You want in? Just show up. Opportunities are here.”
12/ His wish for the next wave? More access, more hands-on demos, and even more focus on energy innovation. “There’s a community here. We need more ‘hubs’ connecting people across NM.”
13/ Final word: “If you want it, you can get it. School’s not the only path. There are so many organizations, bootcamps, and meetups waiting for you. Get involved!”
🔥 Rudy’s story is proof: You don’t need to follow the “traditional” path to make it in tech. Curiosity, hustle, community, and a few bootcamps might open far more doors than you ever imagined.
Want to connect with Rudy or learn more about NM tech events? Find him on LinkedIn: Rodolfo “Rudy” Parra.
👇 RT if you believe tech should be for EVERYONE, and tag someone who needs to hear this! #TechForAll #STEM #NMTech #CareerPathways #LatinxInTech
❓ Questions
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Absolutely! Here are 10 discussion questions based on this episode of Awarepreneurs featuring Rudy Parra:
1. Rudy describes himself as a “nontraditional student” who took an unexpected path into tech. How do you think his early experiences and challenges shaped his unique career journey?
2. The episode highlights the importance of curiosity and “tinkering” in Rudy’s development. In your own life or work, how has curiosity played a role in your growth or career?
3. Rudy talks about taking advantage of programs at community colleges, like STEM Core and the IoT Boot Camp. Do you think community colleges are becoming more crucial in providing tech opportunities? Why or why not?
4. The value of internships is a recurring theme. What impact did internships have on Rudy, and how can they change someone’s perspective or career direction?
5. Rudy credits networking and community involvement as essential to his success. How can someone new to an industry overcome the initial discomfort or intimidation of networking?
6. Imposter syndrome comes up as a common feeling for those entering tech. How do you think Rudy’s perspective on imposter syndrome is helpful for others struggling with similar feelings?
7. The episode discusses several New Mexico-based tech organizations (like Techaria, NM Climate, and Atomic 66). How might such groups change the local tech ecosystem and increase access for underrepresented communities?
8. Both Rudy and Paul emphasize the importance of showing up and volunteering in tech communities. What are some creative or approachable ways people can get involved if they're introverted or new to a scene?
9. Rudy mentions the gap between research and real-world application in tech startups. What skills or mindsets help bridge that gap, based on his experiences?
10. Looking ahead, Rudy is passionate about making the tech sector more accessible and diverse. What do you think are the most promising strategies to create “hubs” of innovation and opportunity for people in places like New Mexico?
These should spark a lively and meaningful conversation for listeners or anyone interested in tech, education, and community building!
🪡 Threads by Instagram
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1. Rudy Parra’s journey shows that you don’t have to be a straight-A student or follow a traditional path to break into tech. His curiosity and openness to new opportunities opened doors he never expected.
2. Community college, bootcamps, and networking helped Rudy go from feeling outside the tech world to leading in New Mexico’s innovative startups. Your tech career entry doesn’t have to be linear!
3. “Intimidation will always be there.” Rudy reminds us that imposter syndrome is normal, especially if you’re new to tech. Find community, show up, get involved—and growth follows.
4. New Mexico’s tech scene is thriving thanks to people and hubs like Techaria, NM Climate, and Atomic 66. Building networks and supporting each other helps the ecosystem grow stronger.
5. Rudy’s advice: Get out of the classroom, join clubs, say yes to events, and connect with mentors. Tech isn't just for insiders—ambition, curiosity, and community are your ticket in.
SEO Description Summary
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In this Awarepreneurs episode, Rudy Parra shares his unconventional journey into New Mexico’s tech scene—from CNM’s boot camps and internships to building advanced batteries at GridFlow. Host Paul Zelizer and Rudy discuss accessible tech pathways, the importance of networking, and Atomic 66, a new event aimed at expanding tech opportunities across New Mexico.
LinkedIn Thought Leader post
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1.
Is New Mexico the next major hub for tech innovation?
How can nontraditional talent break into emerging industries like climate tech, AI, and advanced energy?
What if meaningful tech careers were more accessible than you think?
On the latest Awarepreneurs episode, host Paul Zelizer sits down with Rudy Parra, mechatronics and lab technician at GridFlow, for "Bootstraps and Bootcamps: New Mexico’s Pathways into Tech."
Paul highlights a crucial insight: The tech ecosystem in New Mexico is bursting with opportunity—from bootcamps and community college programs to robust Latino and Black tech communities. Paul states, "If you want to work in clean tech, climate, AI, advanced energy—are you going to local sector meetups? The doors are open wider than ever."
A smart takeaway from Paul: Don’t just build your skills in isolation. Show up for networking events and sector meetups, even if it feels awkward at first. "If you go three times, you’re going to know everyone in the room,” Paul shares.
Curious about how to make tech careers more inclusive—and how to plug in, wherever you live? Check out the full episode for a deeper dive into New Mexico’s growing tech ecosystem and new models for accessible innovation.
How are you building your network and impact as tech evolves? Let’s discuss in the comments!
2.
What’s the secret to launching a successful tech venture—especially in emerging markets?
How do you balance passion, community, and strategic action for bigger social impact?
Host Paul Zelizer of Awarepreneurs delves into these questions with guest Rudy Parra in a recent episode exploring New Mexico’s rapidly evolving technology scene.
Paul shared: "Balancing profit and purpose isn’t optional—it’s a strategic advantage." By fostering a collaborative local ecosystem, Paul has seen firsthand how startups can move from idea to funded venture by actively engaging in supportive networks like NM Climate, Techqueria, and Atomic 66.
Paul’s advice for founders: Get out from behind your pitch deck. New Mexico’s startup ecosystem is built on authentic relationships—build trust by showing up, volunteering, and connecting with those shaping the future.
Bottom line: Tech opportunities are opening up across the Southwest—and Paul Zelizer is helping entrepreneurs realize that New Mexico’s inclusive approach is giving rise to nationally recognized programs.
Where do you see emerging opportunities in your local ecosystem? Have you leveraged community networks to grow your impact? We’d love to hear your perspective! Catch the full episode for actionable insights on building values-driven tech ventures.
Key takeaways
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Certainly! Here are the 3 key takeaways from the Awarepreneurs episode "Bootstraps and Bootcamps, New Mexico's Pathways into Tech" featuring Rudy Parra, each with a supporting quote that illustrates the point:
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**1. Nontraditional Paths Are Viable Gateways into Tech**
Rudy Parra’s journey highlights how nontraditional students—particularly those from community colleges, bootcamps, and first-generation backgrounds—can find powerful opportunities in tech without the “straight shot” four-year degree. The availability of accessible training, practical bootcamps, and internships breaks down barriers and helps students pivot toward hands-on, real-world tech careers.
> “I was never the, like, four point o val valedictorian. I was never that straight shot student. I was I consider myself a c average student. And... I realized that, like, I need to work more in my my education, and I felt like I wasn't ready enough for for UNM. And so I I went to CNM, and I was like, well, let me just start there.”
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**2. Community and Networking are Critical for Breaking In and Moving Up**
Rudy underscores the essential role that involvement in clubs, networking events, and sector-specific groups plays in gaining experience, meeting mentors, and accessing real opportunities. Consistent participation in meetups, hackathons, and organizations like Tequería and NM Climate accelerates both personal and professional growth.
> “...getting yourself involved. And I think that's what helped me as CNN provided me not only the education to obtain my CIS degree, but it provided me outlets because I knew that, yes, I was working for that degree, but I knew what was important. And that is building myself within the community to find more things to do, you know? And that is that's what ultimately got me here to this day...”
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**3. New Mexico’s Tech Ecosystem is Growing—And It’s Everyone’s Opportunity**
The episode illustrates that New Mexico is building an accessible, innovative tech ecosystem, with multi-day events like Atomic 66 and active support structures for diverse communities. These collaborative efforts are not only bringing together tech founders, talent, and investors, but also highlighting the state's rising presence in climate and advanced energy sectors—making it possible for newcomers to quickly become leaders and contributors.
> “And we do have a community, and we do have some movements, a large of, you know, tech start ups. But what we don't have is a hub for us to kinda get together and share all of these things in the state of New Mexico. And I think a good circle way back is Atomic sixty six. And and I think that's one of the ways how we're trying to do that is creating more events like these where it's saying, hey. You know, you don't have to just be in a tech startup... this should just be an outlet of this is what I have and this is what I wanna show.”
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These takeaways collectively demonstrate the evolving, collaborative, and accessible nature of New Mexico’s tech scene, as well as the importance of community involvement and nontraditional educational pathways.
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