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August 2, 2018 40 Under Forty 2018

Luis A. Valdez-Jimenez

Photo | J. Fiereck Photography

Age: 30

Company: UTC Aerospace Systems

Title: Supply Chain Contracts Specialist

No. of years with current company: 3

Town where I live: Windsor Locks

Town where I work: Windsor Locks

College: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Highest degree: Law degree and MBA

Luis A. Valdez-Jimenez focuses on converting legal and regulatory risks into competitive advance. Since coming to UTC Aerospace Systems, he has excelled in negotiating contractual terms and conditions and helping to ensure compliance with various forms of regulatory requirements.

He is also very active in his community and is a board member of the United Way Emerging Leaders Society, Prospanica, and the Connecticut General Assembly Commission on Equity and Opportunity. Previously he graduated with his law degree and MBA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and his bachelor's degree in political science from Florida International University.

What's been your biggest professional accomplishment?

I supported a key initiative to find a supplier for a key internal process by supporting the lead negotiator in the contract negotiations. During the process I helped to exchange proposals with the supplier and I had to obtain approvals from senior management, including a vice president, for the negotiation results. Ultimately, the contract was signed, resulting in mitigated risks, significant cost savings and improved process results.

How are you involved in the community?

I currently serve as the chair of the United Way Emerging Leader's Society Steering Committee and on the board of Prospanica. I was also appointed by the state House minority leader to serve on the State Commission on Equity and Opportunity.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I am consumed by wanderlust. I am passionate about traveling, learning about other cultures, good food and drink, and immersing myself in a new experience. I also love to read, volunteer and enjoy time with family.

Give an example of a people-skills habit you adhere to in your work and daily life that you feel has helped you succeed.

I always try to avoid assuming the worst about people. When people do something they should not, I first try to think “Did they know better?” “Have they been trained?” “Am I misunderstanding something?”

What must the Greater Hartford region do to attract more talented young professionals to the area?

The Greater Hartford region needs to invest in improving public transportation, resolve the state financial crisis, reduce cost of living and taxes, and bring in new employers.

Four reasons why you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty:

• Earned several recognitions at work for completing complex and risky assignments.

• Appointed to a state commission to work with lawmakers and community leaders on policy issues affecting minority communities.

• Leader in multiple community and philanthropic organizations.

• Published articles on various legal issues.

Fun Fact

I am the first person in my family to be born in the United States.

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