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In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥¿ª½± is proud to close our celebration spotlighting Ramesh Krishnamurthy, the district’s chief technology officer and member of the FWÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥¿ª½± leadership team. 

In this question-and-answer, Mr. Krishnamurthy shares his personal journey and the importance of representation. Join us to learn how heritage and dedication are making a lasting impact. 

 

Can you tell us a little about your personal background? When did you know you wanted to pursue a career in technology? 

Krishnamurthy: My father worked for the chief mechanical engineer office at Indian Railways. A couple of my older cousins were also mechanical engineers. Visiting my dad at work and listening to my cousins started my passion for engines and machines, and I wanted to be a mechanical engineer. With the launch of personal computers and mobile phones, I automatically gravitated towards technology in high school.

 

How has your heritage influenced your life and career? 

Krishnamurthy: Education was a big part of our upbringing. I was fortunate enough that aside from my parents, my extended family was a huge influence. Their support and guidance helped shape my worldview, values, and career choices. Acknowledging and embracing one’s cultural heritage while pursuing personal goals can lead to a fulfilling life and career journey.

 

Are there any particular traditions or cultural practices from your heritage that you continue to embrace and pass on to others? 

Krishnamurthy: Adaptability, strong financial management, time management, effective communication, and continuous learning. These are five pillars that I have learned from my family, and this has helped with my personal growth.

  

Who are key mentors or role models who have influenced your career, particularly within the AAPI community?

Krishnamurthy: My role models have come from various spheres. I always looked up to my family, but I was also blessed with good friends and excellent teachers, both in school and college. It never stopped there, and I have come across some great peers and managers during my professional life who I have tried to emulate in my professional and personal life.

 

Why do you think representation matters, especially in leadership positions within education? 

Krishnamurthy: When we see individuals who share our backgrounds, experiences, and identities in leadership roles, it sends a powerful message. However, representation should develop organically and should not be forced.  

 

What advice do you have for young AAPI people aspiring to take on leadership roles? 

Krishnamurthy: When you convert issues to opportunities, you can effect change. Give it your best and the results will follow. 

 

What lessons or messages would you like Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥¿ª½± students to take with them from your story? What wisdom would you like to share with the next generation? 

Krishnamurthy: I am on my sixth large-scale transformation, and I am still learning. Never stop learning and remember to teach others along the way. Also remember that you get what you put in, so always put in your best efforts. 

 

What does AAPI Heritage Month mean to you? 

Krishnamurthy: It’s an opportunity to learn and appreciate the vibrant mosaic of people and traditions that enrich our nation. 

 

FWÏã¸ÛÁùºÏ²ÊÖ±²¥¿ª½± thanks Mr. Krisnamurthy and all the students and staff who shared their stories with us throughout AAPI Heritage Month. We hope that through our celebration of AAPI Heritage Month that you learned something about the significant contributions of the AAPI community and found inspiration.