10/14/2026
Our last Hispanic Heritage Month spotlight is Jeordany Rufino, Engineer Helper at 7 World Trade Center, who has been a valued member of the building’s Engineering Team since November 2017.
❓ Can you tell us about your cultural background and heritage?
🔵 I was born and raised in the Dominican Republic. My culture is very loud, bold, festive, and colorful. I immigrated to the United States at the age of 16 as a first-generation immigrant. I arrived without knowing the language or fully understanding the culture, but I brought with me the strong work ethic that is deeply rooted in Dominican culture.
I would say that Dominicans are very hardworking people. Back home, many of us begin working at an early age and are raised with the saying, “Work hard so your children will have it easier. “That mindset has stayed with me throughout my life.
❓ What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
🔵 For me, Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of observance and appreciation. It gives us an opportunity to stop and recognize all the people who contribute to our communities and to the day-to-day operations around us. I enjoy learning about the different cultures and traditions of the people around me. Getting to know their stories and experiences is something I truly value.
❓ How has your Hispanic heritage influenced your personal and professional journey?
🔵 Being a bilingual Hispanic has opened many doors for me and has helped me build lasting connections. Being able to translate for others or assist someone who may not speak the language is something I take great pride in. I also enjoy sharing meals with my coworkers because it gives me an opportunity to share a little bit of my culture and experiences while learning about theirs as well. I believe food is a wonderful way to bring people together and learn from one another.
❓ How do you celebrate your culture and heritage?
🔵 A very special date for me is February 27th when we celebrate Dominican Independence Day. On this day, my wife, our friends, and I usually make a savory mangú cake made with mashed plantains and topped with los tres golpes (“the three hits”), which include salami, fried cheese, and fried eggs, along with, of course, pickled onions. It is a tradition that allows us to celebrate our Dominican roots while enjoying good food and good company.
❓ What inspired you to pursue your current career path?
🔵 I have always considered myself a jack of many trades. One of my first jobs as a young boy was assisting a local ironworker for a few cents per errand. It was there that I began developing an interest in hands-on work and anything that involved creative thinking. In my current career in building engineering, we often encounter problems with machinery that require creative and practical solutions. I enjoy that challenge and the opportunity to use both my hands and my mind to find solutions.
❓ What advice would you give to young professionals within the Hispanic community who are just starting their careers?
🔵 I would encourage them not to become discouraged when they face difficulties. Remain hopeful, work hard, and give one hundred percent in everything you do. There will be challenges along the way, but with perseverance and dedication, your sacrifices will eventually lead to success.
❓ Can you recommend a favorite artistic medium or director/author/actor that emphasizes the Hispanic/Latino experience?
🔵 I would recommend Dominican American author Junot Díaz. His writing explores the Dominican and immigrant experience, including themes of identity, family, culture, and adapting to life in the United States. He received the 2008 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for his novel The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao.
