Jan Aspuru joined Prospera’s statewide Board of Directors in 2011, and served as Chair of our organization during the 2014-2015 and 2015-16 fiscal years. The son of immigrants and small business owners with roots in Cuba and Puerto Rico, Jan understands the sacrifice required to be a business owner and is a passionate supporter of Prospera’s mission. Keep reading to learn more about our Immediate Past Board Chair!
A conversation with Jan Aspuru, Vice President at OUC and Immediate Past Prospera Statewide Board of Directors Chair
- What are your company’s mission and services?
OUC provides reliable and affordable electric and water service to our customers in an environmentally responsible manner. Our company also provides services in the areas of Chilled Water and Lighting.
- What led you to serve or continue serving on Prospera’s Board of Directors?
I was looking forward to give back to the community by volunteering with a non-profit organization. Prospera’s mission attracted my interest from the beginning and it has been a wonderful and fulfilling experience.
- Where are you originally from? If you are Hispanic, please tell us your nationality (or your family’s).
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico, and my parents migrated from Cuba to the U.S. as a result of Fidel Castro taking control of Cuba
- Which are the three words that best describe you?
Self-motivated, inquisitive and caring.
- What advice would you have appreciated hearing when first starting your career?
As an Engineer, I tended to view things very logically and black and white, when in reality it doesn’t always work that way in a corporate environment. The need for clear communications with others, the inner workings of a corporate environment and better understanding of how people can have very different views of the same issue, are all examples of what I wish I knew more about at the beginning of my career.
- What is the most important lesson you’ve learned throughout your career?
Listen to others, respect their ideas and opinions even if they don’t match yours. Nothing will come easy…. life and career can be very rewarding but you need to work hard at it.
- How do you achieve work/life balance?
I do this much better today than when I was younger. I think it is part of the maturity process for anyone… realizing that quality of life and time with family are as valuable or more than monetary goals.
- How do you stay informed about trends in your industry?
Reading journals, networking.
- Where is your favorite place to have a meeting outside of the office?
A restaurant and sometimes a golf course.
- Which social media platform do you use most frequently?
I don’t.
- Can you tell us one item still on your bucket list?
I have never taken more than one week of vacation at a time. So I’m looking forward to someday going on a 14 or 21-day cruise to the Mediterranean.
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