Welcome to Resolve's Cultural Corner! As a way to illuminate our DEI path, we have introduced a new series highlighting diverse perspectives on career and life featuring members of our SOLV Energy team. Cultural Corner will build awareness and encourage appreciation for our variant cultural backgrounds!

Tell me about yourself. Who are you? Where did you grow up? How do you identify?

My name is Ma Fernanda Talley, I go by Fern. I am a first generation Mexican-American. My family emigrated from Aguascalientes, Mexico. I was born and grew up in Los Angeles, surrounded by extended family in a Spanish-speaking world. I am a mother of two young daughters and have been married for 10 years.

What do you value most?

My family is the most important part of my life. We value spending as much time as possible being active outdoors.

What were you told as a child that you still believe today?

I was always reminded that I am not better than anyone, but no one is better than me. This instilled both confidence in myself and a respect for others. And that VapoRub will cure absolutely any illness.

How does your cultural heritage influence who you are?

Being Mexican is a huge part of my identity and everyday life. My family only speaks Spanish at home and we teach our daughters to be proud of their mixed cultural heritage.

What family traditions or superstitions do you have?

My family celebrates Noche Buena on December 24^th and stays up until midnight to celebrate Christmas. At the stroke of midnight every family member hugs every other family member in attendance, usually a 50+ person party.

What cultural similarities and differences do you have with your closest co-workers?

The members of our group come from different backgrounds and bring diverse perspectives to the table. While no one grew up in the same environment, one common thread is the value we all place on family.

Please share something that you’d like everyone at SOLV to know about your cultural heritage.

In Mexican culture many use the first name Maria but abbreviate it as Ma. When someone is named Ma Fernanda, everyone reads it as “Maria Fernanda” in Mexico. My father did not know that if he named me “Ma” with a middle name of Fernanda that my legal first name would be “Ma”. Every first day of school was rough as a child trying to explain this to my teachers.