At Focal Pointe, we believe growth happens on and off the job-site. Dreams Happen Here highlights team members whose dedication and hard work have helped shape meaningful careers within our company.
This issue, we’re featuring Fernando Colorado, a Field Operations Manager whose journey at Focal Pointe began as a visa worker in 2016. Through perseverance, a willingness to learn, and a passion for helping others succeed, he advanced from crew member to leader of nine crews and approximately 40 team members. Along the way, he learned English, became a U.S. citizen, and now mentors the next generation of Focal Pointe leaders. His story is a powerful reminder that growth is possible when opportunity and determination come together.
Q: Can you introduce yourself and tell us how long you’ve worked at Focal Point?
A: I started working for Focal Point in 2016 as a visa worker. My brother worked here before me and helped me secure the job. Since then, I’ve grown with the company and taken on new roles.
Q: How did you learn English after you arrived?
A: Living here really helped. I took English classes for about two years—two days a week for two hours—and practiced a lot by working with people who only speak English. That forced me to use the language and improve.
Q: What motivated you to learn despite being afraid of making mistakes?
A: I decided that making mistakes was part of learning. I told myself I would speak even if it was wrong because I wanted to learn. I kept going despite feeling awkward or embarrassed.
Q: How did your career progress at Focal Pointe?
A: I started with no experience and learned hands-on—people showed me how to use equipment and do the job. I worked in Caseyville for two years, then moved to the WashU contract as a crew member. After about three years I became a crew leader, training new hires and emphasizing attention to detail. I served as a crew leader for about five years and later moved into a Field Operations Manager role.
Q: What does your Field Operations Manager role involve?
A: I manage nine crews and their crew leaders—about 40 people total. I’m on campus daily, huddling with crew leaders each morning to review what was done, what we’ll do today, and any special tasks. I also check that crews have the correct equipment and support leaders and crew members when they need help.
Q: How do you approach training and mentoring crew members?
A: I enjoy teaching and sharing knowledge rather than hoarding it. I often take new hires under my wing and show them how to do the job. I look for curiosity and a willingness to ask questions—those are qualities that make strong crew leaders.
Q: Can you give an example of someone you’re proud to have trained?
A: Yes—Carlos A. Palmeros worked with me as a crew member and learned everything I showed him. He’s now one of my best crew leaders, and I’m very proud of his growth.
Q: How do crew members and leaders respond to you?
A: Many crew members, especially those who don’t speak English, trust me and come to me with questions. They know I’ll try to help or find the answer. That trust is important, and they rely on me for support on work and sometimes personal matters like getting a driver’s license.
Q: What do you enjoy most about your work at WashU?
A: I love walking the properties with people and finding small details to improve—things that can be missed when you’re in the same space every day. I also enjoy making plans with the crews to do things more safely and efficiently. I’m always trying to improve and that is motivating and I enjoy it.
Q: What are you most proud of personally?
A: I’m proud of becoming a U.S. citizen in 2024. Focal Pointe helped me get my green card, and after five years I applied for citizenship. I studied American history and practiced my English to pass the test.Becoming a citizen allows me to petition for my wife and daughters to come here legally.
Q: What do you tell newly hired crew members about working at Focal Pointe?
A: I tell them my story to show that the company cares about people’s growth. Focal Pointe offers opportunities to grow. If you want to advance, you can. If someone wants to stay a crew member, that’s fine too. There’s room here for different goals.