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Erick Martinez, a senior at the Colin Powell School, is a testament to resilience and ambition. Born in the Dominican Republic and raised in New York City’s vibrant Dyckman neighborhood, Erick’s journey has been shaped by the unwavering support of his parents. His mother, an entrepreneur running a daycare business, instilled in him the value of perseverance, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Meanwhile, his father nurtured his love for motorsports, sparking Erick’s dream of one day working in prestigious series such as NASCAR, Formula 1, or IMSA.

As the first in his family to attend college, Erick recognizes the significance of this milestone. “I’m driven by a vision to create a legacy of success and inspire others to break barriers,” he shares. At CCNY, he has seamlessly blended his academic pursuits with leadership roles, striving to uplift his peers. As Co-President of ALPFA CCNY (Association of Latino Professionals For America) and an active member of LAESA-SHPE (Latin American Engineering Student Association Chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers), Erick’s mission is to empower those around him.

Passion Meets Purpose

Majoring in business administration and management, Erick’s studies are fueled by two passions: motorsports and helping others. “Motorsports has been a lifelong dream, inspired by my father’s enthusiasm and my own fascination with the industry,” he explains. Simultaneously, Erick is building a career in consulting, where he aims to help businesses optimize operations and make meaningful impacts. His leadership roles have reinforced his commitment to giving back. From mentoring students to organizing professional development events, Erick sees his purpose as “lifting others as I climb.”

A Supportive Community

The Colin Powell School has played a pivotal role in Erick’s journey. With the guidance of mentors like Christine Garmendiz, Fellowships and Student Success Program Associate, Erick has navigated both academic and professional development with confidence. “The school has provided me with resilience, adaptability, and teamwork skills,” he says, qualities he plans to carry into every professional opportunity.

Looking Ahead

As Erick approaches graduation, he is actively pursuing opportunities in motorsports and consulting. He’s also considering an MBA to further his expertise in business and strategy. Beyond his career ambitions, Erick remains dedicated to giving back to the community that shaped him. “Whether through mentorship, career advice, or supporting local initiatives, I want to uplift others just as I have been uplifted.”

Words of Wisdom

Erick’s advice to current and future students is to embrace challenges and seize opportunities for growth. “The setbacks you face will teach you more than your successes ever could. Falling isn’t the end; it’s the foundation for building something even greater,” he reflects.

When asked to describe the Colin Powell School in three words, Erick sums it up perfectly: Mentorship, Opportunity, Community.