With a non-traditional background in IT, ChaChi Gallo has risen through the ranks to lead a global team of 60-70 employees at Generac. His passion for technology and empathetic leadership style have driven success in managing complex IT environments, particularly during mergers and acquisitions. Outside of work, ChaChi chairs Generac’s Hispanic Latino ERG and serves on the board of IC Stars, an organization helping individuals from non-traditional backgrounds start IT careers.
How can IT leaders balance technical expertise with people skills? In this episode, ChaChi Gallo, IT leader at Generac, shares insights on managing IT teams, adapting to mergers and acquisitions, and fostering a culture of innovation. He emphasizes the importance of empathy, communication, and hands-on experience in IT careers, offering valuable advice for both seasoned professionals and newcomers to the field.
What do you do after work to keep up with technology?
This PDF includes:
Recommended audiobooks for sales improvement, useful YouTube channels for tech learning, and links to IT education platforms.
You’ll also find the video on business communication we discussed
Download it now to keep learning after the podcast ends!
You can access it here
00:00 – Introduction and Chachi’s background
03:10 – Early gaming experiences and technology nostalgia
07:29 – Trade school experiences and hands-on learning
09:13 – Managing IT support staff ratios
11:27 – Challenges of mergers and acquisitions in IT
13:17 – Examples of saying “no” to requests
17:12 – Developing IT partnerships with business units
21:33 – The “bike shed theory” and conference room technology
27:01 – Community involvement and mentoring
34:48 – Importance of empathy in IT roles
38:21 – Encouraging curiosity and passion for technology
42:29 – Final advice: Follow your passion in IT
Leadership Articles / Emerging Topics / Nagging Issues
A revolutionary podcast focused on solving IT challenges and growing the value of IT.
