In honor of Latino Heritage Month, the Rams will celebrate the contributions and achievements of the Latino/Hispanic community through the inspiring stories of their staff.

We continue that celebration spotlighting Cyber Security Specialist Frank Meza.

Born 10 miles from a Mayan community called Tazumal in Santa Ana, El Salvador, in 1964, with direct descendants on his mother's side from a subordinate tribe named Pipil (sounds like peepeel), Frank Meza credits that native heritage for his humble work aptitude and commitment to progression and success.

"I recently revisited this community of Mayan artifacts and realized that even then, they used relatively advanced technology to build structures," Meza said. "I feel very proud to be a pioneer technologist in my career, and like them, I equally understand and leverage the advanced technology used in this century."

Meza brings that collective work ethic and skillset to his current role as Cyber Security Specialist for the Rams, a role he has been in for 13 months. His responsibilities include ensuring protection of highly critical organization data assets by implementing and managing security controls that monitor and detect cyber threats requiring in-depth analytics and responses.

"I have to say (the best part of my job is) the latitude and freedom given to my role by management, my experience and expertise in the Information Security field are respected and well received," Meza said. "Also, the people all around me, not only in my immediate team but other departments of The Rams family."

What motivates Meza is the daily realization that he works for a professional football team.

"Before being afflicted by a physical disability, I was very active and athletic, and being around a fast-moving sports organization motivates me to push my body which allows me to feel comfortable and physically fit," Meza said.

Meza's grandparents from his mother's side are his role models and heroes. He admired the way they not only provided for 10 children and countless grandchildren, but also the dedication and work ethic shown by his grandfather to always provide his grandmother with the necessary means to feed and house any family member at any given time.

"They never complained and rejected anyone, just made everyone feel comfortable and safe," Meza said. "My grandfather taught us the meaning of the value and rewards of hard work."

That upbringing also influences how Meza honors his culture in his daily life.

"In my case, literally, keep moving forward," Meza said. "Although I think my main cultural heritage I honor; is the acceptance of the rooted work principles and talents to be used for the betterment of my work and home family."

One cultural tradition Meza wishes to pass down and share with colleagues is the Christmas Eve gathering with family.

"The more the better," Meza said. "A special holiday by meaning but also by what it signifies to the members of the family in attendance. It combines the holy aspect of the night and an occasion to foolishly enjoy each other, young and old, all the special foods, and celebration throughout the night. Truly a joyful experience."

The biggest cultural misconception he finds himself having to educate and explain to others involves his native country.

"Because of unfortunate events in my country and the stigma of violence, the reputation of El Salvador has been stained which is slowly being repaired," Meza said. "But you will find a humble, hard working and resilient culture that makes the people special as they are always thriving to succeed in whatever it is they do in a simple manner."

Meza said Latino Heritage Month is important because of the impact positive education about a minority group can have on future generations.

"As a minority group in this country, it is important for the future Latin generations to be influenced by diverse awareness about Latino Heritage," he said. "It brings to the forefront that a Latino descendant in America is just a capable and smart to adapt to demanding technologies while navigating through underlying social challenges. This positive education about a minority group type will open social and professional opportunities for young Latino descendants as they launch their careers in America."

When it comes to celebrating Latino Heritage Month, Meza pointed to continuing programs like this series, which he said set an example for other organizations.

"I am proud to be part of such an inclusive and accepting company," Meza said.