Excellence in technology starts with exceptional people, and at Presidio, our commitment to developing top talent is exemplified by our Presidio Distinguished Professionals Program (PDP). Since 2019, the PDP has spotlighted outstanding engineers and project managers shaping innovation, mentorship, and strategy across Presidio.
Discover how our PDP members mentor nearly 500 colleagues, inspire leadership, and drive a culture of growth and continuous improvement—all pillars of Presidio’s people-first approach and industry leadership. We interviewed 4 of our PDP members on how this program has impacted their life, both at home and in their work they do at Presidio.
Gloria Phelan
What does being recognized as a PDP mean to you?
It’s not just an acknowledgment of excellence—it’s a commitment to uphold Presidio’s brand and values every day. For me, it represents trust: trust in my ability to lead by example, to continuously grow, and to elevate those around me.
What habits, mindsets, or practices help you consistently perform at a high level?
Carol Dweck’s growth mindset philosophy is at the top of the list. Her research showing that abilities and intelligence are not fixed, but can be developed, is a framework I strive to live by every day. I also believe in intentionally stepping into discomfort; growth rarely happens in familiar settings. To improve as a leader and person, it’s essential to seek out diverse perspectives and remain open to feedback. Meditation also helps me pause, reflect, and respond with clarity and purpose rather than reaction.
Above all, I try to lead with empathy and understanding. People may not remember what you said, but they’ll always remember how you made them feel.
How has the PDP program challenged or inspired you to continuing pursuing excellence in your work?
The PDP program has challenged me to think beyond my immediate organization and reflect on Presidio as a whole: who we are, how we show up, and how we strengthen our culture together. Serving as Chair of the Mentorship Program Committee has been very rewarding. It’s given me the opportunity to connect with incredible people and witness the power of community.
I’m constantly inspired by my fellow committee members—their dedication, thoughtfulness, and genuine care for others is amazing to see. The fact that this work is entirely voluntary yet carried out with such heart and consistency says so much about the kind of people we have at Presidio. It’s a privilege to be part of something that continues to make such a meaningful impact.
How does the PDP program strengthen a culture of excellence across Presidio?
The PDP program empowers individuals to give back, to lead from wherever they are, and to stretch themselves in ways that benefit the entire organization. It reinforces a culture where growth, collaboration, and excellence are not just words, but shared values that drive how we operate every day. By recognizing and amplifying those who embody these principles, the program helps cultivate the kind of culture where people feel inspired to do their best work and support one another in doing the same.
Talbert Houle
What does being recognized as a PDP mean to you?
Being recognized as a PDP is a huge honor, as the people in the program are titans within Presidio and the industry. It means a great deal that my commitment to hard work, my ability to create value for others, and my dedication to advancing Presidio beyond my role have been recognized.
What habits, mindsets, or practices help you consistently perform at a high level?
What drives my consistent performance is thinking like an owner, learning from positive role models, building meaningful connections, helping others, and working to create a legacy my kids and others can be proud of. Lastly, my love for strategy, games, and competition overlaps with my work life, as I feel that a career is the ultimate strategy game.
How has the PDP program challenged or inspired you to continuing pursuing excellence in your work?
Seeing the great work of others in the PDP program is inspiring and helps motivate me to up the ante. If anything, the PDP program members do not promote their contributions nearly enough.
How does the PDP program strengthen a culture of excellence across Presidio?
The PDP program sets a high bar that others can look up to and work towards. Knowing what the top of the mountain looks like inspires achievement and helps build a culture of excellence.
Gail Backal
What does being recognized as a PDP mean to you?
The bar to being selected as a PDP is high, so this recognition confirms that I am performing at a high level, and more importantly bringing value to Presidio and our customers.
What habits, mindsets, or practices help you consistently perform at a high level?
I believe in starting with the end in mind. Having a clear understanding of the outcome I’m working toward helps me stay focused and ensure my efforts align with that goal. I also believe in asking questions, especially when something isn’t clear, and in admitting when I don’t know something. That curiosity and willingness to learn have served me well throughout my career.
How has the PDP program challenged or inspired you to continuing pursuing excellence in your work?
I’ve always been one to push myself to ensure I create the most impactful outcomes. Receiving the PDP designation motivates me to strive even higher, aligning to the standards set by the program. The PDP program is composed of many amazing people, and I must bring my A-game every day to uphold the standards set by my predecessors.
How does the PDP program strengthen a culture of excellence across Presidio?
PDPs set the example within Presidio for what excellence means daily. First, as we grow the program, more employees get to work directly with a PDP and see what excellence looks like up close. Second, PDPs are chosen not only for their work ethic but also for how they treat colleagues and customers. They set a tone culturally for how to treat people and collaborate successfully. Last, as PDPs continue to demonstrate excellent results and behavior, they organically set the bar higher for everyone else.
Raphael Meyerowitz
What does being recognized as a PDP mean to you?
The PDP designation is a recognition of sustained technical impact, thought leadership, and strategic influence within Presidio and across the broader technology industry. It signifies a commitment to advancing innovation, mentoring others, and shaping the company’s technical direction at scale.
What habits, mindsets, or practices help you consistently perform at a high level?
There are a few mindsets that shape how I approach my work. The first is to take ownership and act proactively. The second is to let personal goals and purpose guide business direction. Last, I believe it’s important to focus not only on working in the business but also on improving it and growing it.
How has the PDP program challenged or inspired you to continuing pursuing excellence in your work?
The PDP program has pushed me to elevate both my technical skills and strategic impact. It’s inspired me to think beyond projects, align with Presidio’s broader vision, and keep learning, mentoring, and driving excellence across the organization.
How does the PDP program strengthen a culture of excellence across Presidio?
The PDP program strengthens culture by celebrating excellence, fostering mentorship, and inspiring continuous innovation and collaboration.
Presidio’s Distinguished Professionals Program isn’t just about recognition; it’s about fostering an enduring culture of excellence, collaboration, and growth throughout our organization. By empowering leading minds to mentor, innovate, and exemplify our values, we’re building a future where employees are motivated to push boundaries and deliver superior results for clients and colleagues alike.
Interested in joining a team driven by mentorship, achievement, and impact? Explore career opportunities and learn more about our culture of excellence at Presidio today.
Related:
- Presidio Culture and Belonging
- Presidio Top 100 Inspiring Workplace Winner
- How Presidio’s Forward-Thinking Innovation Sprint Drives AI-Powered Business Growth
