How’s it going? I’m Dr. Steve Valero!
I’m a coach who wants to help people discover their next steps to move forward
in their company, leadership, or career with expertise in Software Engineering.
Here’s some background about me
Growing up in Southern California, my childhood ambition was to become an engineer like my father. As a second-generation Mexican-American, I felt the weight of familial expectations to carry on the name and achieve success. While school life and involvement in Boy Scouts is were I achieved, I grappled with a lingering sense of not being good enough and uncertainty about how to navigate various aspects of my life.
In a somewhat serendipitous turn of events, I found myself graduating in 2000 with a BS in Computer Science from Arizona State University. My initial job into the professional world led me to a software engineering role as a contractor for Cisco Systems. Over the years, as I worked and led teams, I began to unravel my unique strengths. The desire to lead persisted, prompting me to pursue a Master’s in Leadership Development, a journey that unveiled my passion for helping individuals grow and creating supportive environments.
Venturing into leadership positions at Infusionsoft, a startup, deepened my understanding of leadership dynamics. Yet, sensing there was more to learn about those I led, I enrolled in a PhD program in Organizational Psychology at Grand Canyon University. Working with various ed-tech companies, including Glynlyon, Imagine Learning, Degreed, and Keap, enriched my knowledge of diverse organizations, leaders, software engineers, and environments.
Through this comprehensive journey, I crystallized my purpose and concluded my educational pursuit with formal Executive Coaching, consolidating my commitment to guiding others on their paths to growth and success.
What type of coach am I?
I am deeply passionate about propelling individuals forward, leveraging my extensive experience and knowledge to provide guidance. Central to my coaching philosophy is the belief that the genuine solutions reside within you. My coaching approach focuses on collaboratively crafting a path aligned with your aspirations. My transparent communication style fosters a comfortable environment, facilitating open dialogue. Having navigated my own insecurities and uncertainties about advancement, I draw on 25 years of expertise in software engineering and leadership to support you on your journey toward personal and professional growth.
Here are some of my values
As a coach, I am guided by a set of core values that underpin my approach to personal and professional development. Transparency forms the bedrock of my coaching philosophy, fostering an environment of openness and trust. With unwavering integrity, I am committed to upholding ethical principles and ensuring honesty in every interaction. My devotion to family is a driving force, recognizing the significance of balance and connection in one’s life. Embracing adventure, I encourage clients to step outside their comfort zones, unlocking new possibilities. A relentless pursuit of achievement propels my coaching, inspiring individuals to set and surpass their goals. I am a perpetual learner, viewing every experience as an opportunity for growth, and I instill this mindset in those I guide on their journeys toward success and self-discovery.