In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re excited to highlight the stories of some of our outstanding team members.
This year, Juandiego Medina joined Samet as an Assistant Superintendent, currently working on the Park City South multifamily project in Raleigh. Juandiego has quickly made an impact, building strong relationships with his teammates like Josh “the Hurricane” Talton and Adam “the man” Heth, as well as their trade partners. Originally from a small town in Texas, Juandiego brings a wealth of experience and pride in his Hispanic heritage to everything he does.
Can you tell us about your journey into the construction industry?
My construction journey began after high school. I was planning to join the military after being in JROTC throughout high school. While waiting for a recruiter, my brother Jorge invited me to work with him at a concrete company. I stayed there for six years in Austin, Texas, before moving to North Carolina, where I worked in the sprinkler industry for another six years. My stepdad also had a demolition and construction company, and I used to help him on weekends. I loved seeing the transformation from nothing into a beautiful building. That sense of pride in building something with my hands has stayed with me. I never considered working for a General Contractor until I was encouraged to join Samet. Everyone I spoke to told me Samet’s core values aligned with my own, and now, I’m proud to be part of this team.
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, how has your Hispanic background influenced your approach to your work and career?
Speaking both English and Spanish has been incredibly valuable. It allows me to bridge the gap between my coworkers and the trade partners who don’t speak English. Growing up in a Mexican household, where family and hard work are central values, has instilled a deep sense of pride in my heritage and my work. I carry those values with me every day.
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect on my roots. Growing up in a household where the food is always made with love and the family is always around to enjoy our time together. I am always proud to say where I come from because without my roots I honestly don’t know where I’d be. It reminds me of the strength and resilience of my ancestors, like my father and grandfather, who taught me that I can achieve anything. Those lessons continue to motivate me at work and in life.
Can you share a tradition or value from your culture that you bring into the workplace?
One of the sayings I live by is ‘No se rajar,’ which means to never give up. There’s always a way to figure things out, learn, and grow. That’s how I approach every challenge I face at work. Also, I’m very proud of my name Cipriano. I carry it proudly, in honor of my grandfather, who was a great man. His success inspired me, and I work hard to live up to the legacy of our name. Por que soy un Cipriano lo puedo ser todo.
Outside of work, how do you like to spend your time?
I love spending time with my son, who is almost two years old. Watching him grow brings me so much joy. I also enjoy working out and, of course, being from Texas, cooking steaks and making sauces is something I enjoy.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Never be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Complacency kills growth. Always challenge yourself to grow, pursue happiness, and keep moving forward. Just like a river stays fresh by flowing, we too must keep moving to stay fresh and grow.
Juandiego’s dedication to both his work and his heritage is an inspiration to all of us at Samet. We are proud to have him on our team!
