By Akers Editorial
40 Under 40: Erika Acosta
My legacy: I want to be remembered for contributing to Habitat for Humanity’s success in helping families build a better future by managing and coordinating all furniture and donation pickups. Achieving our goals has only been possible through the collaboration of the hardworking and dedicated team I have today.
A challenge I overcame: Learning to step outside my comfort zone. It changed the way I think by embracing new opportunities, taking risks and making decisions even in uncertain situations.
Fun facts: I have been working for Habitat for Humanity for 10 years. I’ve been with my husband since middle school and I throw parties like it’s my full-time job.
Erika Acosta, 36, has built a career in service, teamwork and quiet strength. As the dispatch services manager for Habitat for Humanity, she plays a crucial behind-the-scenes role in helping families build better futures. She coordinates all furniture and donation pickups and leads a team that represents Habitat’s mission.
Erika has been with Habitat for Humanity for 10 years, a milestone she counts as one of her “fun facts,” along with being with her husband since middle school and being known among friends and family for her sense of fun.
“I throw parties like it’s my full-time job,” she says.
At work she is someone who leads with humility and heart by pushing herself and her team to grow together.
Her defining moment came when she began embracing new challenges.
“Taking on new challenges at work showed me that growth happens when you push past fear,” she says.
She credits much of her confidence to her supervisor and her other half.
“My supervisor Laurie Newkirk’s encouragement helped me push past fear,” Erika says. “Her support gives me confidence to lead and trust myself. Also, my husband is always encouraging me to believe in myself and reminds me that I can achieve anything.”
One of her biggest personal challenges has been stepping outside her comfort zone, something she now sees as a turning point.
“It changed the way I think by embracing new opportunities, taking risks and making decisions even in uncertain situations,” she says.
That shift has shaped how she leads and mentors.
“I want my leadership to inspire others to lead with kindness, respect and confidence,” she adds.
Most of all, she wants to be known for the impact she made on her team and the success she helped create.
“Achieving our goals has only been possible through the collaboration of the hardworking and dedicated team I have today,” she says. “Our drivers and helpers who report to me play a crucial role. They are the face of Habitat, representing our mission in the community every day.”
Erika is motivated by the chance to help local families and individuals build a better future.
“What drives me every day is the knowledge that I can make a difference,” she adds.
