What does it look like to grow your career while celebrating the community that shapes you? We asked JC Gonzalez, senior material planner, and Nadya Ganem, senior human factors engineer, to share their journeys, proudest moments, and how their involvement in the ¡HOLA! ERG connects heritage with their impact at Intuitive.
Tell us about your career journey at Intuitive and how you contribute to the company’s success.
JC: I joined in October 2024 as a senior planning analyst supporting Supply Chain–Planning. My focus was on creating tools and processes to enhance planning efficiency and visibility.
In May 2025, I transitioned into my current role as Senior Material Planner, where I help ensure that the right materials are available at the right time to support production and meet customer demand. My role involves coordinating with cross-functional teams to manage supply chain risks, optimize inventory, and support strategic initiatives that drive operational excellence.
Nadya: I joined Intuitive in May 2022 as a human factors engineer. Throughout my time at Intuitive, I have had the privilege to work with cross-functional partners on a range of projects starting with the IDE (Investigational Device Exemption) study for the da Vinci 5 system and Force Feedback instruments to the latest software release with the Force Gauge feature. This year, I was promoted to senior human factors engineer, where I support my team with process improvements and mentor junior team members.
As a representative of the Human Factors team, I work closely with product development teams to design and evaluate new products or modifications to existing products. I conduct usability studies where we invite surgeons and their surgical teams to evaluate our products.
I also enjoy going out in the field to support surgeons with their ergonomics or to observe how our users interact with our system in their natural environment. The most fulfilling part is working closely with brilliant cross-functional partners and surgical teams.
What is your proudest achievement at Intuitive?
JC: One of my proudest achievements has been improving communication and collaboration with the Supply Chain Procurement team to proactively avoid delays in material availability. I’ve also documented key processes and created work instructions to support consistency and onboarding within the department. I’ve also had the opportunity to support various teams across the supply chain, helping drive alignment and efficiency in our operations.
Nadya: My proudest achievement is receiving clearances for products and features I worked on, including for the latest da Vinci 5 software release.
What gives you energy or inspiration—inside and outside of work?
JC: At work, I’m energized by the opportunity to solve complex problems and contribute to a mission that directly impacts patients’ lives. Collaborating with talented colleagues and driving improvements across the supply chain keeps me motivated and engaged.
Outside of work, I find inspiration in being an industrial engineering professor. Sharing my knowledge and experience with the next generation of engineers is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a way for me to give back, stay connected to the academic world, and help shape future professionals who will drive innovation in their own careers.
Nadya: I have a strong personal motivation for improving medical devices and our healthcare system. My father is my inspiration. Throughout his life, he managed his kidney disease by undergoing kidney transplants and receiving dialysis treatments. Without advancements in medical technology, my father would not have been able to enjoy a fulfilling life with his family and his career in finance and real estate development.
Tell us about your cultural heritage and background.
JC: I’m proud of my Mexican heritage, which is rich in tradition, resilience, and community. Growing up in Mexicali, I was surrounded by strong family values and a deep appreciation for hard work and celebration. I carry those values with me every day.
Nadya: I was born and raised in Miami. My grandparents from my father’s side are Cuban-Lebanese, and my grandparents from my mother’s side are Honduran-Spanish. Growing up in Miami, where the majority of the population is of Cuban origin, I was surrounded by my Cuban culture. I spoke English and Spanish daily, enjoyed a strong Cuban coffee regularly, danced to salsa music on the weekends, and played dominoes with my family on Sundays.
What has your experience with the ¡HOLA! ERG been like?
JC: I joined the ¡HOLA! ERG shortly after starting at Intuitive in 2024. Being part of this group has been a meaningful experience—it’s given me the opportunity to connect with colleagues who share similar cultural backgrounds and values, while also helping promote awareness and inclusion across the company.
Nadya: Throughout my two years with the ¡HOLA! ERG, my focus has been on supporting our philanthropy initiatives. This year alone, we organized a fundraiser for essential workers impacted by the Los Angeles fires, and volunteer opportunities to expose university students to our latest robotic surgical system and career paths across Intuitive.
