Entrepreneurs play a critical role in society’s economic recovery from significant disruptions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, that’s what happened. The global crisis inspired innovation and helped the world to adapt to the emerging new challenges. Several examples suggest that during COVID-19, entrepreneurship experienced tremendous growth. Dining out at restaurants, for instance, has been primarily replaced by meal and grocery delivery services.
Similarly, work from home has become an essential component of the current workplace, and more meetings are being held via video conferencing tools – Zoom has become a household name. Interestingly, a significant number of people have also opted for or are considered switching to remote work entirely. All of this has been possible only due to entrepreneurial ventures reimagining the world in a new light.
While the business world has become far more uncertain than ever after the advent of COVID-19, there are several potential trends to look out for in 2022. According to Michael G Jacobides, Professor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship, this year will experience a new avenue of digital experiences. For instance, Tesla saw its first actual operating profit in 2022, suggesting that even if a product or service is overhyped, it can create an impact in the market with adequate funding. The pandemic allowed Tesla to switch from trading carbon emission credits to investing in Bitcoins, thereby driving innovation.
Amidst the budding crop of entrepreneurs who’ve entered the market during the COVID-19 pandemic, only a few could be termed as highly experienced. One individual who has only recently decided to prove his mettle in the entrepreneurial world with decades of experience to his credit is Christian Espinosa.
Born on December 17, 1970, Christian Espinosa is a Managing Director at Cerberus Sentinel and the Founder of Alpine Security. In Riverside, California, he grew up with his parents, John Espinosa and Sandra M. Ratledge. Espinosa’s life turned tough after his parents parted ways when he was five months old. His alcoholic mother and stepfather could not provide him with a nurturing background, due to which his initial childhood days were supported by welfare and food stamps.
“No one gave me “hope” to succeed. I realized early on that the only way out of poverty was to generate willpower stronger than any environment” – Christian Espinosa
Espinosa didn’t let his past define him despite living a tough life. He worked exceptionally hard throughout his academic journey from high school to college. During his final year at high school, Espinosa was selected for US Air Force Academy. He was also chosen as the Salutatorian and received far more scholarships than his entire graduating batch combined. He acquired a BS in Engineering from the US Air Force Academy and later pursued his MBA from Webster University.
Espinosa found it hard to form personal connections with those around him due to his difficult childhood years. He played football but was also inclined towards heavy metal. His diverse interests made it difficult for Espinosa to click with a specific group. However, that didn’t discourage him from further broadening his horizon. He decided to keep learning and to excel at everything he does.
During his work in the cybersecurity industry, Espinosa had convinced himself that he was the most capable individual in his workplace. However, after a while, that premise began to render him lonelier. Espinosa wanted to change something about that, but he didn’t know precisely how. Then, in 2014, his life took a new turn. He planned to climb Mount Elbrus in Russia. While he was standing atop the mountain, something changed inside Espinosa. He realized what he’d been doing wrong all his life, letting his ego get in the way. Projecting himself as the most brilliant person at every platform was sabotaging his opportunities for further growth. In addition, it was also hindering his prospects of belonging to a group. That’s when Espinosa made a conscious choice to alter the course of his entire life. Instead of boosting his ego, he decided to achieve belonging.
Espinosa’s changed perspective on life is also reflected in his profession. In 2014, he established “Alpine Security” offering cybersecurity services and training to various industries. His vision behind starting the company was to create a space where cybersecurity experts collaborate to devise highly-effective solutions rather than work in silos. He always encouraged his employees not to let their egos get in the way of learning from each other.
After successfully leading “Alpine Security” for six years, Espinosa sold it to Cerberus Sentinel. The firm now offers full-spectrum cybersecurity solutions and training services. It aims to help businesses enhance their cybersecurity systems and upgrade their staff’s skillsets.
Espinosa’s aim in life is no longer merely achieving one goal after the other. Cooperating with others and sustaining meaningful relationships are also on the agenda.