The son of a teacher and a union operating engineer, Hector is a lifelong Chicagoan who has dedicated his life to public service. He has spent over three decades working to improve the quality of life for his community, the city, and the state.

A first generation Mexican American, he was the first in his family to earn a college degree. He returned to his Little Village neighborhood and subsequently joined the staff of then Alderman Jesus “Chuy” Garcia.

Since then, Hector has served several members of the Chicago City Council, the Clerk of the Cook County Court, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, and four Illinois Governors. His most recent government role was as Chief of staff for State Representative Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez during her chairmanship of the state’s redistricting committee and her subsequent election as Chair of the Democratic Party of Illinois.

Hector has worked on countless political and social justice campaigns over the years, which has helped him develop deep relationships in government, politics, and non-profit. His commitment to consensus seeking has allowed him to bridge cultural and ideological differences throughout his career.

A graduate of Quigley Preparatory Seminary South High School, he holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Dominican University and an MBA from National Louis University.

Hector lives in Chicago’s Lower West Side. He is an avid cook and amateur beekeeper, producing honey on his “Tiny Pilsen Farm”.