EMBA Alumni Spotlight: Victor Guerrero, Marketing Director at HCA Healthcare
Victor Guerrero graduated from the Executive MBA in November 2021. He is currently serving as the Administrative Director for Marketing and Communications for HCA Healthcare/Las Palmas Del Sol Healthcare system.
Victor Guerrero, UTEP EMBA '21, leading healthcare marketing at HCA Healthcare/Las Palmas Del Sol. (Courtesy Photo)Tell us a little bit about yourself and your professional work experience before joining the UTEP EMBA program.
Before joining the program, I accumulated over 15 years of experience in marketing and communications, primarily within the healthcare sector. I consider myself a native El Pasoan; growing up in Segundo Barrio and graduating from Bowie High School, I went on to pursue my undergraduate studies at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP).
Throughout my career, I've worked as a team member and leader for various healthcare systems. These experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of the healthcare industry and the knowledge to develop effective business development strategies.
My work has always been driven by a passion for promoting health and the general wellness and development of the greater El Paso community.
What drove you to seek out a Master’s in Business Administration?
My decision to pursue an MBA was greatly influenced by a conversation with a recently promoted colleague within our company. She suggested that furthering my education with an MBA or a Master's in Health Administration (MHA) could be the key to advancing my career. Intrigued by the idea, I researched the UTEP EMBA program and applied.
I was accepted, and the program began in January. Remarkably, by April, I had already seen a significant advancement in my career. While this could be seen as a coincidence, my enrollment in the EMBA program played a pivotal role in this progression.
This experience has reinforced my belief in the value of continuous learning and professional development, particularly in the dynamic fields of healthcare and marketing. I am excited to apply the knowledge and skills gained from my MBA program to further contribute to the healthcare industry.
How has the program helped you in your profession?
The program has enhanced my professional capabilities. One of the most significant benefits has been the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of accounting, finance, and data-driven storytelling.
These newfound skills have allowed me to analyze healthcare business operations more effectively, leading to more robust marketing and business development strategies. By applying these concepts, I have created targeted and impactful campaigns that resonate with our audience and drive measurable results.
The program has provided me with a solid foundation in fundamental business principles, which has been invaluable in my professional growth. I look forward to leveraging these skills to make meaningful contributions to the healthcare industry.
Did you get a promotion or have a career change after completing your EMBA?
While I did not experience an immediate promotion or career change after completing my EMBA, the knowledge and skills I gained have positioned me well for future opportunities. The healthcare industry is undergoing significant changes and challenges in light of the pandemic. These challenges are opportunities to learn and grow within healthcare and to apply these lessons to other industries in the future.
Despite the potential for growth elsewhere, I am deeply committed to my current role at HCA Healthcare/Las Palmas Del Sol Healthcare. I am passionate about the work we do here, and there is still much I can contribute and learn in this environment. My EMBA has equipped me with the tools to navigate the evolving landscape of healthcare and has reinforced my dedication to making a difference in this industry.
What would you tell people considering the Executive MBA program?
My advice for anyone considering the Executive MBA program is simple: don't wait, do it now! The program, though challenging, is only 16 months long and goes by in a flash. Balancing work and school can seem daunting, but with determination and support, you can succeed.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the program is the strong support network you build within your cohort. I'm proud to say that my cohort, Cohort X, is an incredibly resilient group. We faced adversity together, from learning in class about the August 3rd Walmart shooting to transitioning to online learning due to the pandemic. Despite these challenges, we always managed to find the silver lining.
A prime example was our graduation. Due to the pandemic, it was held at UTEP Centennial Park, and only two guests per graduate were allowed. My mother and brother hooded me. This moment was especially touching as my mother retired from UTEP after working in the environmental services department for 11 years, making it a full-circle moment for our family.
