Fernando Escamilla is originally from North Texas, grew up in Austin, and currently lives in Durham, NC. His family comprises of his parents and siblings who live in Texas and his wife, Tarrah, a Duke University graduate. He graduated from University of Texas at Austin and worked as a High School Spanish Teacher. Subsequently, he was a Paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, at Fort Bragg, for 6 years. He started working at Cisco Systems, at RTP, as a Network Engineer in January.
Fernando’s hobbies include reading, watching movies and documentaries, running, working out and playing competitive soccer. When he is not playing, he watches soccer, mostly English Premier League Club Liverpool FC. His friends and family would describe him as kind and generous. He is witty and loves to engage with people from all walks in life.
Fernando is a strong proponent of helping educate underprivileged communities and feels that the immigrant communities need additional support in helping them achieve their version of the American Dream, especially in the current political climate. He joined a volunteer email list that sent out volunteer opportunities that matched his interests. InStepp had an opportunity to help teach a class for the U.S. Citizenship exam, which was familiar to him after guiding his Mother through it in 2005. He seized this opportunity in April of this year and volunteered as a Citizenship Instructor.
As a volunteer at Fort Bragg, Fernando has worked with kids and on area beatification projects. He has also volunteered at food pantries, served the homeless during the holidays and helped prepare packages of non-perishable foods for African relief efforts.
In his time with InStepp, Fernando has met some inspirational people who have reinforced his belief that immigrants have always been one of the great components that has added to the greatness of our country. In his own words, “My time working with InStepp, so far, has been a rewarding experience and I look forward to continuing my association with this wonderful organization, that does great work for their community.” Fernando encourages and thanks all of those that take the time to volunteer in their communities.