Meet Mauricio Herrera | President

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

Hi Mauricio, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Greetings from Bogota, Colombia!

I am the youngest of six children, born into a life marked by both adversity and resilience. At the tender age of six, our father’s passing cast a shadow over our family. Faced with the challenges of making ends meet, my mother, with the financial support of family, made a courageous decision for my sake. She took me—the youngest—and embarked on a journey to the United States, leaving behind our homeland with hopes of crafting a better future for me and, eventually, our remaining siblings.

Arriving in New Jersey with nothing but a suitcase and determination, we found refuge in the generosity of family. The transition to a new life was daunting. A language barrier further isolated me, and the challenges of acclimating to a foreign land were compounded by the unkindness of peers who made little room for those who didn’t speak English.

In the midst of uncertainty, my mother found employment at a flower shop owned by my now stepfather, a resilient soul hailing from Cuba. With nothing more than a third-grade education, he had built a thriving business empire comprising three flower shops and real estate. He became a father figure to me, instilling a relentless work ethic that defined my upbringing. My childhood revolved around school, working at the flower shop, and undertaking whatever tasks were necessary—from playing the role of handyman to becoming the delivery person once I had my license.

His tireless dedication to work, expecting nothing less from me, often left me frustrated as a young child. Little did I realize the invaluable work ethic I was absorbing. Inspired by their example, I enlisted in the Army after graduation, serving for almost eight years as a combat medic and deploying to Kosovo and Iraq. In the military, I found mentors who shaped me into a leader.

Post-military service, I pursued higher education, earning a BS in Health Sciences and certifications in project management. Though I ventured into the corporate world, the political landscape didn’t align with my principles. Refusing to compromise my values, I chose the path of entrepreneurship.

I started as a one-person enterprise, and from those humble beginnings, I’ve built a business that reflects the tenacity and spirit instilled in me by my upbringing. My journey, shaped by trials and triumphs, serves as a testament to the power of resilience, hard work, and the unwavering pursuit of one’s dreams.
 

What should our readers know about your business?
Elite Integration Solutions, where we redefine excellence in the world of low voltage and security solutions. What sets us apart is our commitment to providing comprehensive, single-source services—everything you need, all under one roof.

In an industry where others offer fragmented services, we stand out by delivering end-to-end solutions. From initial consultation and design to seamless implementation and ongoing support, we’ve crafted a streamlined process that ensures our clients receive a holistic and tailored experience.

My journey into this specific business began while working under one of the world’s largest security companies. It was there that I recognized the potential for small changes to make a significant difference in the customer experience. Fueled by a passion for innovation and a commitment to excellence, I founded Elite Integration Solutions to revolutionize the industry.

One of my proudest achievements has been assembling a remarkable team of individuals and fostering valuable partnerships. Together, we’ve built a foundation grounded in expertise, dedication, and a shared vision for delivering unparalleled service.

Navigating the path to success in this industry has been both gut-wrenching and rewarding. The challenges are formidable, and failures are inevitable. However, each setback is an opportunity to learn and refine our approach. We acknowledge our failures, learn from them, and use them as stepping stones to push forward.

A crucial lesson I’ve embraced is the acceptance that perfection is impossible. Despite our best efforts, we can’t control every variable, but we can control our commitment to continuous improvement. We’ve learned that, in striving for excellence, there will always be those who may not share our vision or experience complete satisfaction. Yet, our unwavering dedication to our craft propels us forward.

At Elite Integration Solutions, we want the world to know that we’re not just a business; we’re a dynamic force committed to transforming the industry. Our story is one of resilience, innovation, and an unyielding pursuit of excellence. Join us on this journey, and together, let’s redefine what’s possible in low voltage and security solutions.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
This would be my favorite Itinerary for a week long trip

Day 1 – Welcome to Miami:

Morning: Start the day with a Cuban-American breakfast in Little Havana, enjoying strong coffee and empanadas.
Afternoon: Head to South Beach for a relaxing day under the sun, exploring the iconic Ocean Drive
Evening: Dive into the lively nightlife scene of South Beach with dinner at Prime 112 followed by a visit to the fountain blue LIV night club

Day 2 – Art and Design:

Morning: Explore the Wynwood Walls and the Wynwood Arts District.
Afternoon: Visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami to appreciate some art.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Mandolin Aegean Bistro in the Design District,

Day 3 – Bayside Adventure:

Morning: Take a boat tour of Biscayne Bay, enjoying views of the skyline and Star Island.
Afternoon: Visit the lively Bayside Marketplace for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Evening: HIt the Wharf MIami for some bites and drinks long the Miami River.

Day 4 – Little Haiti and Cultural Exploration:

Morning: Immerse in the vibrant atmosphere of Little Haiti, exploring local art galleries and cultural centers.
Afternoon: Visit the Little Haiti Cultural Complex and enjoy a Creole lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Evening: Experience the energetic nightlife of downtown Miami, with live music and cocktails at a rooftop bar.

Day 5 – Head over the Everglades National Park spend the day exploring the evergaldes.

Day 6 – Coral Gables and Shopping:

Morning: Walk around different part of Coral Gables,
Afternoon: Shop at t Miracle Mile & Merrick Park
Evening: Diner at ThreeFold Cafe

Day 7 – Visit the ft lauderdale beach and hang out in Las Olas for lunch at Rocco’s Tacos and dinner at Sky Thai Shushi

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would be remiss not to acknowledge the incredible force behind the scenes—my rock, my confidante, and my unwavering source of support—my wife, Kristy Herrera.

In this journey of entrepreneurship, marked by its highs and lows, Kristy’s influence has been nothing short of transformative. Her positivity, a steadfast beacon, has illuminated the darkest corners of uncertainty. No matter the situation, her unwavering optimism has been a guiding light, infusing our shared endeavors with hope and resilience.

Beyond the challenges and triumphs, Kristy has been my anchor, grounding me in moments of doubt and celebrating with me in moments of success. Her belief in my dreams has been a constant fuel, propelling me forward when the path seemed daunting.

Kristy, you are not just my life partner; you are the silent architect of our shared victories. Your support has been the bedrock upon which I’ve built my aspirations. Without you, this journey would lack its most crucial element—your unwavering love and encouragement.

Thank you, Kristy, for being the heartbeat of our shared endeavors. Your positivity and strength are the driving forces behind the successes we’ve achieved, and I am endlessly grateful to have you by my side.

Website: www.eissecurity.com www.digitalhabitatmiami.com

Image Credits
Centner Academy-