Esther Lumague
Director, International Human Resources, Harris Corporation
Education: BA, Political Science (Loyola University – Chicago); MS, Organization Development (Loyola University – Chicago); MS, Industrial Relations (Loyola University – Chicago); MBA (Keller Graduate School of Management – Chicago); Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR); Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
What I’m Reading: Great by Choice by Jim Collins and Morten Hansen
My Philosophy:Work hard, but work smart!
Interests: Outdoor activities, spinning, Body Pump, and Pilates
Company Headquarters: Melbourne, Florida
Website: www.harris.com
Primary Business: Communications and Information Technology
Annual Revenues: $6 billion
How do you think Asian Americans have evolved in terms of industry/field diversity?
The stereotype of Asian Americans as “computer nerds” or “number crunchers but short on people skills and creativity” continues to create barriers to entering a wider range of career areas. Having said this, I have been witnessing the influx of Asian American Millennials in the field of HR, specifically in HRIS and compensation.
“In order to overcome stereotypes and other barriers to career success, recognize and build on Asian American values that are especially important in business – hard work, responsibility, discipline, teamwork, and long-term orientation.”
Are there any stereotypes of Asian/Pacific Americans that should be refuted or are incorrect?
The “hard worker” image sets up unrealistic expectations that Asian Americans will gladly make major sacrifices for work – e.g., work for less, work harder, and work longer hours.
What do you think is the greatest issue or dilemma facing the Asian/Pacific-American community today?
Asian Americans in general are changing, and experiencing generational differences as new generations become Americanized. The new generations born in the US tend to be more assertive, vocal, and equipped with better communication skills than their parents. Although they tend to question certain values of their parents, they are the beneficiaries of the hard-earned success of their parents.
