#TeamMITRE Spotlight: Andy Reyes

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re recognizing MITRE employees from our Latin American Business Resource Group (BRG) to learn more about them and their impactful work here and in the community. Meet Andy.

"One of the key highlights of my work is the development of custom tools to streamline the warrant data collection process and improve the accuracy and timeliness of intelligence. I also enrich government and entity reports by leveraging social media, breach records, and open-source intelligence. This enrichment provides a more comprehensive view of potential threats and adversaries.”

As a homeland security systems engineer, Andy plays a crucial role in providing advanced criminal intelligence support, which significantly impacts our mission to enhance national security.

Q: Share a tradition or celebration that you observe to honor your heritage.

AR: One tradition that my family and I observe is Día de los Muertos. During this time, we honor our ancestors and family members who have passed away, reinforcing the bonds of family and community. We set up "Ofrendas," elaborate altars in our home, and decorate them with offerings and personal items that belonged to our loved ones. This celebration serves as a reminder of the importance of remembering and cherishing those who came before us.

Q: Tell us about your volunteer efforts or service you’re doing in the community.

AR: I currently volunteer as the head coach for a U11 Boys' Academy soccer team in my local community. The program was recently revived, and I find immense fulfillment in watching the boys grow both personally and developmentally in the game of soccer. Having played soccer my entire life, I am passionate about passing on my knowledge of the game. Additionally, I enjoy teaching the boys valuable lessons about mental toughness, determination, and teamwork, which allows me to influence them on a deeper level. Furthermore, I serve as the Webmaster for the Veterans' Council at MITRE. In this role, I create monitor and maintain a web platform that connects MITRE veterans with each other and with advocates, fostering a supportive community.

Q: Who inspires you most and why?

AR: My parents. Immigrants from Mexico, they sacrificed immensely to provide their children with better opportunities in the United States. Their journey was filled with challenges and hardships, yet they remained resilient and determined to build a better future for our family. Their unwavering dedication, hard work, and love have shaped who I am today. My parents are my heroes. They inspire me to strive for excellence, to appreciate the value of hard work, and to always remember the importance of family and community.

Q: What’s your proudest moment in life?

AR: When my parents finally received their U.S. residency and a clear path to citizenship in 2023. This achievement marked the culmination of a long journey that began when I first enlisted in the military in 2018. Through my research, I discovered that I could utilize the Parole in Place program to expedite my parents’ legalization process. This was the least I could do to repay my parents for the sacrifices they have made. I wouldn't be where I am today without their support.

Make sure to check out our other employee spotlight for Hispanic Heritage Month below:

-        Carolyn Hunter