Meet Maca Baigorria: Founder and Mentor at Avocademy

We had the good fortune of connecting with Maca Baigorria and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Maca, how does your business help the community?
I’m really proud to say that my business truly has a massive social impact. One of the most important things I considered when designing my platform was accessibility. I wanted to make sure anyone, anywhere, with a realistic budget and a willingness to learn a new skill, would find that when they came to Avocademy. There is a growing demand for UX/UI designers in this increasingly social world, which will continue to grow in our new post-COVID lives. My business helps people at a nationwide level get in on the action.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My career has been a real whirlwind. I started out as a Mechanical Engineer for The Boeing Company which was my childhood dream. Ironically enough, as soon as I moved to Seattle I realized I didn’t know what my dream was anymore. From there I bounced around between getting my masters, working for IBM and then PwC. Each time I was challenged to jump into roles where I had to teach myself new skills. That self-teaching UX Design is what gave me the idea for Avocademy. If I could do it, there was no reason I couldn’t help others. So was it easy? No way! But it sure has been fun. That’s probably the most important lesson I’ve learned. If you don’t love what you’re doing and you’re not having fun, do something else.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
It’s so cheesy but I’d start with an airboat ride in the Everglades. I know, I know, it’s touristy but this is Miami and one of the few places in the world where you can see all that beauty. To eat, 100% going to Michael’s Genuine. It’s my regular spot, great for every meal, and in the beautiful Design District. We’d probably have drinks at Amara, maybe check out some improv at Just The Funny, and hang at my place eating tacos. I love being at home and experimenting in the kitchen, especially if it means trying out new recipes for my family and friends.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My best friend, Alex, immediately comes to mind. She has been by my side helping me realize my dreams since the beginning. Every move I make she’s there to offer her guidance and even when I make a move she’s not 100% sure about, she’s there to support me in whatever way possible, whether that’s building a budget or organizing my desk. I also need to give some credit to the rest of my support system. I’m lucky to come from a big family of entrepreneurs so they get it. They encourage me and drive me to be the best I can be.

Website: www.Avocademy.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avocademy_/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maca-baigorria/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCukzTGUNq9ZrdbqwWoXyArA