From working parents to military veterans, GE Aerospace would not be the company it is today without its employees. We created “Quick Six” to celebrate our diverse talent by asking employees six questions that uncover the unique ways that they contribute to GE Aerospace and the world.
In our newest installation of Quick Six, we interviewed Rodolfo Orozco, a Senior Staff Technical Product Manager, to celebrate and bring awareness to International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Based at the Querétaro, México facility (GEIQ), Rodolfo was diagnosed with ADHD during college after years of struggle. ADHD, also known as Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder, is a developmental disorder marked by persistent symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Since his diagnosis, Rodolfo has transformed what many perceived as a challenge into a unique strength. With 12 years at GE Aerospace, he has thrived in his role, including his work collaborating with customers and engineering teams to developing strategies and impactful digital solutions. Holding degrees in computer science and aerospace engineering, Rodolfo is dedicated to breaking misconceptions about disabilities, including how they can unlock strengths such as curiosity, fast problem-solving, and creative thinking.
What does International Day of Disabilities mean to you?
I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge fan of “special days” for things that should be part of everyday life. Understanding ourselves, learning from each other, and celebrating progress shouldn’t be limited to one date in the calendar.
What I do like about this day is that it starts conversations. It gives people a chance to say, “Hey, this is my experience,” and others a chance to say, “I didn’t know that, thanks for sharing.” If the day helps even one single person to feel less alone or more empowered to ask questions and take action, then it has value.
What does disability advocacy mean to you personally, and how do you incorporate it into your daily work?
For me, advocacy isn’t about “speaking for” people. It’s about making space, so people feel comfortable speaking for themselves. I try to bring that into my day-to-day life by being candid, listening actively, and encouraging open conversation. When someone is struggling with clarity, process, or communication, I try to simplify things, share what works for me, and help them remove blockers.
I’ve talked openly about ADHD in conferences because if someone walks away thinking, “Okay, this makes sense, I can do something about it,” then it was worth it. That, to me, is advocacy.
How can colleagues and leaders better support employees with disabilities?
Support doesn’t have to be complicated — small actions can make a big impact. Start by asking questions instead of making assumptions, and provide clarity on expectations, priorities, and timelines. Listen without judgment and ensure feedback is a two-way conversation, not just one-sided. Focus on outcomes rather than the process someone uses to get there and foster a team culture where it’s normal to ask questions, raise concerns, and challenge processes.
Even small adjustments — like a quick five-minute conversation — can prevent hours of frustration and help everyone work more effectively. This approach aligns with the principles of GE Aerospace’s proprietary lean operating model, FLIGHT DECK.
Why do you enjoy being part of the Disability Advocacy Network Employee Resource Group and what opportunities has it provided?
It’s a place where people genuinely want to help each other grow, not by feeling sorry for anyone, but by sharing tools, experiences, and perspectives. It feels good to contribute, and to see others open up, learn something new, or realize, “Hey, I’m not the only one dealing with this.”
I like being around people who are willing to learn, who challenge assumptions, and who want to make work better for everyone. It also has given me opportunities to speak openly about ADHD, connect with people who are going through similar challenges, and learn from them. It also pushed me to get better at explaining how I work, how I stay focused, and how I manage complexity, which has helped me in my role. It’s allowed me to help others who might feel stuck or overwhelmed, which is something I really enjoy.
What has GE Aerospace afforded you that you don’t think you could get elsewhere?
GE Aerospace has given me space to grow, professionally and personally. I’ve had the chance to work on teams/projects that directly impact airlines, manufacturing, repairs and overhaul (MRO), and the way our products are managed. I’ve also had the freedom to explore different roles, from engineering to technical product management, and build a strong network that supports collaboration and interesting conversations. What I appreciate the most is the trust: I’m able to drive strategy, talk directly with customers, influence digital product direction, and use my strengths without being boxed in. That’s something that isn’t easy to find everywhere.
If you could give anyone advice who wants to pursue your line of work and has a disability, what would you tell them?
Your disability doesn’t define your potential, your actions do. Be curious, ask questions, and build trust through candid communication. Start networking early; the people you collaborate with will help you grow faster! Take advantage of what makes you different and learn how to use the strengths your disability gives you — it can be your superpower.