spotlight | Andres
Andres Velazco
Sr. Technical Consultant
This spotlight's recommendations from Andres are:
TV Series
Shrek
Movie | 2001 | PG13
Music
Andres is an experienced sr. software solutions consultant with more than nine years of experience in the field and incredible talent for building custom solutions. He has built an outstanding reputation for delivering high-quality solutions with an strategic vision to server our clients.
His experience working as a Sr. Technical Consultant with our Enterprise Solutions team involves a wide range of meaningful projects, from system optimizations and UI customizations to system integrations, including workflow engines, user interfaces, custom reporting business process management and much more.
Andres brings a wealth of knowledge and professionalism to the table. His passion for solving problems is conveyed by his friendly demeanor and unwavering focus on client success. At Mayan Technologies, we are proud to have him as part of our team.
Professional
Andres' academic and real-world experience in information technology has given him a deep knowledge of both hardware and software. He blends that familiarity with understanding the latest technical developments to create meaningful contributions to projects throughout their lifecycle. He is a versatile and talented technology specialist with an extensive background.
With a Bachelor's degree in Information Technology from Universidad Tecnologica de Tehuacan and a specialization in Computer Systems, he can quickly learn the ins and outs of new systems and identify areas for improvement to increase efficiency and reduce downtime. His unique skill set makes him an exceptional asset to any project.
What do you do at Mayan Technologies?
I am a specialist in Epicor ERP, my main responsibilities can be described as customizing, supporting, and implementing custom solutions for our customer's Epicor ERP software. Every now and again I do have to get involved in a more customer-facing role by providing technical assistance to our CAMs and customers.
One of our core principles as a professional services firm is to figure out the best solution to our customers' problems, and we do so by developing custom solutions over their current Epicor products. My responsibilities include analyzing, designing, and developing such solutions. In addition to this, I also help train and develop new talent, I do so by sharing my knowledge and experience, assisting Jr. consultants with any technical challenges they may have as well as training them in our core development principles and standards.
You are known for having a very versatile skill set. How do you keep up to date with emergent technologies?
The world of programming is fascinating. I am always looking for new ways to improve my skills. In my personal experience, I've found that the best way to learn to code is to immerse yourself in it. I don't read many books on the subject, I'm not an avid reader, but I watch lots of videos and news stories about programming. I subscribe to several sources of content related to the subject, so I have specific references constantly sharing information about relevant topics. I also follow Microsoft, IBM, and Oracle accounts on social networks like LinkedIn, since they are constantly sharing the latest trends in the field.
Additionally, another of the things I enjoy doing is having conversations with the CAMs; knowing their perspective about the issues they see functionally is one of my favorite parts of my job. Talking with people with different experiences is a great way of improving any skill.
How different is it working as an ERP Technical Consultant from building custom software?
When you're an ERP consultant, you have a box: the software that your client has chosen to use. There are certain constraints on how much customization can be done--and these constraints sometimes mean that certain things just need to be more feasible and practical in order to perform better. Sometimes your clients will come to you with specific requests that may differ from what's already there. In those cases, we have to get creative and find ways to make those changes without breaking anything else in the system. And this is where things get tricky.
However, when building custom software, there is no box! You're given nothing but the blank canvas and told, "do as you will." It's exciting because there are no limits, you have the power to create something incredible and functional. However, with great power comes great responsibility and it can be daunting since you are now responsible for everything - from design decisions down to implementation details such as coding frameworks or writing tests. When building software from scratch, it is essential to ensure everything works perfectly before releasing it into the world. This means, ensuring that all your code is error-free, any bugs were fixed, and that everything is documented thoroughly so others can work with it without issue.
You joined Mayan after working as a subcontractor. Tell us a little bit more about this transition.
It was a very substantial change for me, I used to work at another firm (GlobalSoft) which specializes in custom software development; Mayan Technologies and GlobaSoft have a commercial agreement in place and collaborate in certain areas from time to time. I was assigned as a subcontractor to help support Mayan Technologies’ extensive growth within the Epicor Custom Solutions team. Initially, I was assigned to work with Dora Chavarria (Enterprise Solutions Manager) and Ernesto Alvarez (Principal Software Architect), my main responsibility was essentially to become an additional Technical Consultant and help support their growth.
The team introduced me to the ERP world and really helped me understand Mayan’s core values, business principles and culture. I was assigned as a subcontractor for 4 months and eventually received an offer to join the team full-time. I was thrilled to accept the opportunity and work with such a forward-thinking group, we share a lot of the same values which made it very easy for me to fit into the team.
What has been your biggest challenge since joining Mayan Technologies?
The biggest challenge is when you're working with a new technology or new documentation; in some cases, getting up to speed can take longer than expected. With Epicor, this was especially true when I had to learn to adapt to the code and customize it while ensuring everything worked as expected. And because there are changes in technology and versions that need to be adjusted, knowing which component should be used when is not always easy.
There is much talk about the need for innovation, but only some realize that not everything new is better than what came before. Sometimes, the best solution is to combine the old with the new to achieve greater results.
I’ve also had some challenges when it comes to communication since English is not my native language. Even though I have the basics when it comes to reading and writing, I don’t practice as often. However, working at Mayan Technologies and interacting with clients and colleagues who speak fluent English has helped me advance my English skills and communicate effectively.
How helpful do you think development standards and procedures are?
Development standards and procedures are essential for any company that wants to succeed. As developers, we are constantly working to improve our processes, and this is because we know that the more efficient we are at delivering code, the better it will be for our customers and the company as a whole.
When working with a team, having a standard process to review the code, test it, and deliver it makes it much easier for us to delegate activities, or if a colleague isn’t there, we can go in and solve the problem without having a previous pervasive study of what was done--we already have a path to follow. Which makes it easier to solve the issues and provide customers with excellent service.
Is there a particular software development methodology that you prefer? Why?
I prefer a software development methodology that is transparent and collaborative so I can be sure there are no surprises. SCRUM is my preferred method because it allows me to see the big picture of what I'm working on and helps me understand how my work fits into the overall project. It also lets me know if there are any problems with how I'm doing things or if there are better ways to do them.
In addition, this methodology allows us to see how as a team, we are progressing with our tasks through different stages: planning and estimation of work; execution of functions; monitoring progress; corrective action if needed; review of results; closure of tasks that have been completed successfully or not completed yet.
What type of projects would you like to work on or enjoy most?
The ones that I have enjoyed the most are those where customers ask for something outside the ERP box. We have to follow guidelines but at the same time, we have to be able to deliver what the customer needs. At Mayan Technologies, we are constantly looking for ways to improve our services and solutions, so we must be flexible and innovative when integrating new technologies into the ERP systems.
One of my favorite things about these projects is that they challenge me, and I have the opportunity to learn new things, then document them so that other people can follow suit if they need something similar in the future.
Preferences + Stats
Methodology -
SCRUM
Recommended ERP -
Epicor
Programming Language -
C#
OS for APP Development -
Client Server Solutions on Microsoft Windows
40+
Successfully developed and Delivered Projects
10+
Years Experience
Personal
Andres is a family-oriented person who enjoys the simple things in life—like going for a walk or sitting down to a meal together. He says that his favorite thing to do outside work is spend time with his loved ones, especially his wife and parents. Our conversation began with questions about his origins, aspirations, and interests.
Could you tell us a little about your family and your story?
My mother's name is María del Carmen, she is from Puebla. My father's name is Casimiro and he is from Huautla de Jiménez, a town near Oaxaca. They met in Puebla and got married; from that relationship, they had three children: my middle brother, Ivan, who currently lives in Cancun, my younger brother, Oscar, who lives in Monterrey, and me (the oldest).
I met my wife, Araceli, when I was 18 years old. She is a person who knows how to work hard toward her goals and achieve them. Araceli has been an inspiration to me since the day we met. I admire her dedication and effort to achieve her objectives. Her hard work has helped us both grow as individuals and as a couple.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
My first choice would be Australia. I love the quietness of the country and its natural beauty. It's also very peaceful, which I've always looked for in a place to call home. Although I also like the traditional towns of Mexico--especially where it's cold because I love cold places.
The internet is always a topic for discussion when it comes to moving somewhere new. For example, how much will it cost? How fast will it be? Will there be enough bandwidth? As someone who works from home, these are vital questions. To get my work done efficiently and effectively, I need reliable access to high-speed internet at all times. While there are many places around the world where this may be fine (such as Australia), there are also many places where this kind of access is expensive or nonexistent (like some towns in Mexico).
You are known for your positive and helpful attitude. Where does it come from?
I am someone that likes to help and give without expecting something in return. I always try to do things from the heart. My mom and grandmother raised me this way and always showed me to support others regardless of where they come from or who they are. I have been very fortunate, and I will always be grateful to the people who supported me through tough times.
When I first arrived at Monterrey, I went to work at an office that was far away from home. The first morning I had a coworker drive me, however at the end of the day, I didn't know the way back. A very nice lady offered help, lead me to the Ecovia, and showed me the way home. I felt very lucky and thankful. It was such a kind gesture, one I will never forget.
Sometimes a small gesture can go a long way. The important thing is to play your part and pay it forward.
Can you share with us something you are particularly proud of?
I have been blessed with a wonderful family. My parents have always been my biggest supporters throughout my life. They have been a constant source of inspiration and have taught me many things. Despite all the ups and downs, or hardships growing up, they were able to give me the opportunity to attend college and become a professional. They are the primary reason why I am here today, and it is because of my education that I am able to have my professional career which has allowed me to enjoy certain experiences I could not before, such as traveling.
Where are you from originally? How long were you in Monterrey and how did you end up in Puebla?
I was born and raised in Puebla de Zaragoza, the capital city of Puebla. At the age of 11, due to family issues with my parents, we had to move to Tehuacan, the second most important municipality in the state. I lived here until college. After earning my degree, I had the opportunity to move to Monterrey for seven years. And then... well... you know how it goes: sometimes life takes you places you don't expect! But I'm glad it did.
Those seven years were significant for me as an individual and professional. I learned a lot about myself during that time. I grew up and learned how to be independent, which is hard for any young person who has yet to be on their own. In the wake of the pandemic, I returned to Tehuacan once again; this has always been home for me in a way that no other place has ever been able to match. And as the saying goes: "You will always return to the place where you were happy."
You are known for your love of road trips; what do you like most about them?
I love road trips for two reasons, the first one is because of my father; he is a truck driver, so from a very young age I had to see how he left home for two, three days, or even a week. Being a truck driver implies taking a lot of risks, for example, once while driving his eighteen-wheeler, he fell off a cliff. Fortunately, he survived that accident with only minor injuries, however it was at that moment when I realized how important his job is and that sometimes we, the community, do not appreciate the effort made by drivers in order for us to be able to put food on our table.
The other reason is because of my profession; most of my week is spent sitting at a desk, so I always look forward to having the opportunity to go out with my wife and visit new places in our car while listening to music, it's like an adventure every time.
Is there a place you have always wanted to visit, and yet you haven’t been able to do so?
The world is an amazing place, with so many spectacular places to see. I’ve always wanted to visit Europe , specifically the Netherlands because of its rich history, culture, and art.
Other places I would love to visit is Chicago and New York City in the United States. These cities are among my favorites because of their diversity. What attracts me the most about them is how free people seem to be when living there; how everyone can be their true selves because everyone accepts everyone else for who they are.
What do you enjoy doing most in your free time?
I have a passion for nature, I love going out on mountain bikes and exploring new places. I've been improving my endurance by doing longer rides. I've done everything from 5-10km routes up to 60km rides, with my most recent being 100-120km. I'm also taking care of my health by visiting a nutritionist to learn how to eat better.
Another thing I would love to do is drive a truck, just like my dad. I grew up watching him drive his big rig around, and I always thought it was so cool. When he would come home from a long trip, I would ask him all about it, and he would tell me stories about where he had been and what he saw along the way.
It's not about the knowledge;
it's about the willingness to learn.
Tips from Our Experts
We have the privilege of working with very talented experts, each in their area. Why not share some of that knowledge. Here are Andres' best practices for Jr. developers who are just starting in the industry
It's not about the knowledge; it's about the willingness to learn – It's easy to feel intimidated when you're just getting started in a new field, but it's important not to let that stop you from taking action. The most important thing is to raise your hand and ask for advice. It doesn't matter if you don't know how to program or if you don't know something-- if you have the initiative, then that's the best way to get started.
There are no new problems, only new solutions – You can find many resources online that will walk you through how to solve common problems in programming. There are tons of videos on the internet of all programming languages that can help you get started, learn new concepts, or get past an obstacle holding you back. The more exposure you get to different approaches and strategies, the better equipped you'll be to find your way through the maze.
Mistakes are not to be feared – It is essential to learn from your mistakes to grow as an individual and become a better person overall. It's important to admit when you're wrong because it shows that you're willing to learn from your mistakes. Recognizing when you're wrong shows maturity, confidence, and self-awareness--all necessary qualities for success.
Did You Know?
Here are three things you probably didn't know about Andres Velazco:
Andres likes cars and is a big fan of customizing them.
He loves music and listens to everything from rock to classical music.
His favorite food is “Chiles en Nogada,” a typical dish from Puebla.
Thank you for reading this month's Spotlight article, where featured team members provide insight into their job at Mayan Technologies and detail what their role encompasses while opening up about their personal life.
Stay tuned for our next Spotlight article about:
JOSE GUTIERREZ
Jr. Technical Consultant