The Launch Box Life with Samia Valencia

At The Launch Box, we are entrepreneurs serving entrepreneurs, but we took very different journeys to get here. In this series, readers will learn more about how we each live #thelaunchboxlife every day.

Samia is deeply curious about people and what makes them shine. Her ability to quickly learn and analyze helps her see the potential in individuals and bring the best talent to the table.

Explain your career path—how did you become a Technical Recruiter?

My career path has been an evolution driven by a desire to connect with and understand people. My foundation in School Psychology, where I earned a degree and spent five years as a teacher and therapist, honed my abilities in active listening, understanding individual needs, and identifying potential.

While I valued this work, I sought a role where I could leverage these skills in a more dynamic and growth-oriented environment. This led me to an opportunity within Echelon Risk + Cyber, an accelerated portfolio company of The Launch Box. It was there that I discovered a genuine passion for recruitment.

I found that my ability to understand people and their motivations translated effectively to identifying and attracting talent. Recognizing this synergy, I embraced the opportunity to move to The Launch Box, where I can fully dedicate my skills to fostering growth within its innovative portfolio.

Can you describe your personal self?

I'm a proactive and results-oriented individual with a deep curiosity about people and the world. I constantly seek opportunities for personal and professional growth, driven by a desire to understand different perspectives and learn new things.

I'm an avid reader who also values thoughtful conversations and connecting with others on a deeper level. This blend of inquisitiveness and interpersonal connection is central to how I approach my work.

What are your top personal values and how do you apply those to your work?

While I recognize the role of timing in my career, I believe true success is built, not stumbled upon. The Launch Box deeply resonates with me because its core mission is to empower individuals and portfolio companies with the tools and support needed to achieve significant growth and realize their potential.

I am excited and grateful to be part of an organization that actively cultivates success and provides a platform for impactful contributions

Why did you choose to come to The Launch Box?

I was drawn to The Launch Box because of their eagerness to use data and technology-driven solutions to optimize their operations. Since The Launch Box works with different companies, I have the chance to develop my abilities across various contexts, each with its unique challenges.

What is a common misconception you hear about recruitment?

A common misconception is that recruiters don't care about candidates beyond filling a role. Technical recruitment is a complex process where we strive to give every qualified candidate a fair opportunity.

While we may have only one position to fill, our work involves a significant effort to align individual profiles and needs with the specific requirements of the role and the company culture. We aim to create the best possible match for both the candidate and the hiring team.

What is the most fulfilling part of your role at TLB?

When I was interviewed by Lauren Darby (People’s Op director) she mentioned something that stayed with me: that recruitment is about empowering people to make an impact. Recruitment is a way to help people by giving them the chance to create an impact inside a company. I’m really driven by helping people and understanding recruitment as a bridge that allows that, it’s a wonderful job.

What about the future of TLB are you most excited about?

I’m excited to see the portfolios grow and add more talent to their teams. It would be interesting to see the process of enrolling a new portfolio and work from the ground to make them as successful as the others (portfolios) are.