In Spanish, the word “somos” translates to “we are.” As JE Dunn Construction’s newest employee resource group (ERG), SOMOS embraces a broader translation of its name, to convey: “We are construction, family, culture, tradition, office, field, and JE Dunn.”
The name SOMOS was chosen by the employees it serves to embody the pride felt for their different cultures and heritages. The ERG was established to foster a greater sense of belonging and helps build deeper connection between the office and the job site for Hispanic and Latino employees at JE Dunn. For SOMOS national co-chairs James Robles and Henry Volante, creating a stronger sense of belonging and a resource that employees could own themselves was both intentional and integral to SOMOS’ founding.
“We wanted employees to own it,” said Robles, National Safety Director. “As united as we are, we are still diverse. We are diverse in our own group, and we wanted a name that represented our differences and diversity.”
To make this happen, the group has welcomed more than 160 members in its first year and designated additional leaders from different regions and cities. Together, they decided on a name and actions for the group to prioritize as SOMOS grows. Education, representation and community involvement have been key priorities for members in the ERG’s first year. Throughout all of our regions, SOMOS members have partnered with local organizations to develop and support scholarships for diverse populations. As a new school year kicks off, SOMOS is working to ensure its representation at campus recruiting events. Additionally, national SOMOS leadership presented to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City earlier in 2024. During the presentation, leadership met with a range of business owners and professionals representing the Hispanic community with the goal of strengthening relationships, learning more about our community and ways we can continue to partner.
While the ERG is just getting started, Robles and Volante hope small steps can build momentum toward bigger goals. Future plans include expanding education and engagement on the job site, such as employee presentations on heritage, personal stories and traditions they take pride in, and conversational Spanish lessons to spark more dialogue and opportunities to be heard.
“Realistically, I know not everyone can be bilingual,” said Volante, Equipment Operations Director for Blue Hat Crane & Equipment Rental. “But if you spend a little time, being able to communicate simple terms like ‘thank you’ and ‘good job’ can go a long way for someone who otherwise might never say anything to you.”
As SOMOS’ future plans continue to evolve, creating more opportunities to recognize and celebrate diversity remains central to the ERG’s mission and JE Dunn as a whole.
“I am most excited to acknowledge, watch, and enjoy all that it means for Hispanic and Latino employees to be seen.” Robles said.