CAMPUS: HEB partners visit TAMIU

By Alexis Tijeros
Bridge Contributing Writer
Published Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024

A local HEB store director spoke at one of this semester’s events with the Office of Career Services’ Coffeehouse Wednesdays events.

Texas A&M International University alumnus Alan Gonzalez serves as the store director of the HEB located at 1301 Guadalupe St. in Laredo. Gonzalez spoke with students about his HEB work and personal experiences. He also served on the A.R. Sanchez Jr. School of Business Dean’s Student Advisory Council. He said his time with the council taught him various elements of leadership and how to encourage students to join TAMIU organizations.

Students and staff listened to Gonzalez’s words while having coffee and occasionally asking questions about his role at HEB, which Gonzalez shared. He provided a glimpse of his trajectory, and setbacks, to encourage students to continue thriving.

Questions regarded his daily tasks as store director, and how he achieved his current position. Gonzalez left no details out which had the students and staff in awe. His journey captivated the audience, showcasing the impact of perseverance and dedication.

Gonzalez started as an operations intern, “stayed as a partner” and later earned the role of service lead. He expressed his gratitude by providing the audience with various examples of how he helps partners prepare for interviews and attain other roles. He emphasized the importance of mentorship and continuous learning in achieving growth.

Cross-Functional Representative Stephanie Elizondo serves as an HEB partner. She is also a TAMIU alumna who earned a bachelor’s in English with a minor in translation.

“I love that HEB calls us partners,” Elizondo said.

She added that it creates an inclusive, harmonious environment. Additionally, she translates for disabled partners using sign language. Her cross-functional role in assisting different departments fosters continuous learning and presents various challenges.

“[HEB] really prioritizes education,” Elizondo said. She said this includes earning a degree, honing one’s skills and to potentially “implement those skills in the company.”

The Texas grocery store chain provides flexibility with schedules, scholarships, internships, loans, deals and mental health resources.

“HEB just helps you realize that you can reach for the stars,” Elizondo said.

In addition, the grocer implemented programs such as “networking.”

“We are now able to pick up shifts in other cities,” she added. “Let’s say I want to spend the week in San Antonio and I have a spare day. I can pick up a shift at a store there and I can work. So, I can still make money while I’m on vacation.

“There’s more and more that they want to develop.”

Elizondo said she enjoys HEB’s progressiveness with partners and others alike.

“HEB’s stability and foundation that they’ve spent so much time building,” Elizondo said, “it really is nurturing people and the community.”

She provided examples of how HEB changed partners’ lives through commitment to their well-being.

“It’s a beautiful thing to witness,” Elizondo said.

She also said management is aware of HEB partners, offering assistance and providing further opportunities. This resonated with Gonzalez’s explanation of his tasks. They both specified that personality and character make a potential partner.

Applying for HEB through job fairs in person or online, requires both traits. They recommend that prospective employees and new hires show the qualities they offer when beginning a journey with HEB.

Former employee Alfonso Arreola said that although there were stressful situations within his tasks, he still managed to declare HEB a pleasant experience.

Partners can apply and provide motivation and determination to learn.

Interested people may join Handshake to sign up for further TAMIU alumni visits. Upcoming events for October include visits from TAMIU alumni: Pete Saenz III, Juan Jose Farias.