Meet Diego Rivero Balbuena: A job where you matter
“Our cornerstone is inclusion, in Hydro it doesn’t matter where you come from, the language you speak or how long you’ve been in the company, the diversity in our workforce is what makes us succeed,” says Diego, when asked to describe Hydro’s company culture.
Each year Hydro asks employees to nominate colleagues who go the extra mile for the annual Hydro People that Matter Award. The nominations are based on efforts that reflect Hydro’s values of Care, Courage, and Collaboration, in or outside the workplace.
In May 2022, after just eight months into his first job in Hydro, Diego’s dedication and commitment to Hydro and his colleagues gave him the opportunity to work as a Multilingual Mentor at Hydro Extrusion’s Yankton, South Dakota plant in the U.S. In his role, he supports new colleagues with orientation and onboarding, bridging the communication gap between workers, leaders, and managers, making everyone feel like they belong in the Hydro community.
Diego was nominated for the People that Matter Award 2024 for his efforts in bridging language barriers, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, and making every associate feel valued and heard. His willingness to assist beyond what is expected of him and his involvement in various plant activities, demonstrates his unwavering dedication to his job. Diego's contributions have been instrumental in enhancing department retention, and promoting a culture of safety and inclusivity at Hydro Yankton.
Keep reading to learn more about Diego and what it is like to work at Hydro.
Congratulations on receiving the People that Matter Award! Can you describe what receiving this award means to you?
It is hard to put into words the emotional roller coaster that moment was. At first, I didn’t believe it, I wasn’t even aware that I was nominated. Once the reality of it set in it was mind blowing to think I was getting such an award. You see, there is no way a little boy from Cuba would imagine getting this far. It really is a steppingstone that helps me realize I’m on the right path.
You exemplify the Hydro values beyond your daily work, what motivates you to go the extra mile?
I would say the support received through my personal experiences. You see, we have all been in positions that we didn’t necessarily like, but it’s all about how we handle and get through them. So, for me it is just common sense to try and do to others what was done towards me, helping people in those situations. That can be as simple as translating something, explaining a procedure, sitting next to someone and listening, or just answering the phone at odd hours. The little things really make a difference. Knowing I can help others, really makes my day.
Which of Hydro’s values mean the most to you and why?
By far Care, not that Courage and Collaboration are not important, they are all somehow intertwined. The reason is very simple. We can find a paycheck, job stability and even a career anywhere, but caring for each employee goes a long way. This is what has been most impactful for me and I try to do the same for others.
As a true ambassador for Hydro, what do you think makes our company a great place to work?
The people, the vision, the mission. Many things can be said that make Hydro a great place to work. Beyond the fact that we are here to be successful, we are also proving we can do business and care for people, not only for employees, but for the environment and communities too.
How would you describe our company culture?
A great one! Our cornerstone is inclusion. In Hydro it doesn’t matter where you come from, the language you speak or how long you’ve been in the company. The diversity in our workforce is what makes us succeed.
You recently visited Oslo with your fellow award recipients. Any key takeaways from your Oslo trip you’d like to share?
First of all, hands down to Ellen Karina who coordinated the trip, for her efforts and care, and for a smooth process for all of us. Learning how involved we are as a company with the Nobel Peace Center and being able to participate in the Nobel Peace Prize ceremony. To see how committed people from the headquarters are to position Hydro as an industry that matters really left a footprint on me. All those unforgettable experiences shared with the other award recipients who share the same north star as me was a confidence boost to continue to do what I do.