Meet the Team

"Success in a complex world comes from learning to work collaboratively. At Acerola Strategies, our diverse team of experts and partners believe in the power of working together to achieve great things. We are committed to helping you meet your needs."

Ubaldo M. Córdova-Figueroa, Ph.D.
Founder & CEO

Support Experts

  • Valeria A. Cruz-Zapata

    STRATEGIC OPERATIONS & PROCESS ENGINEERING

    I hold a B.S. and M.E. in Industrial Engineering. I excel in project management, evaluating project progress, performance, and compliance, managing teams, and optimizing processes using Lean Six Sigma. My analytical skills and attention to detail ensure program milestones are met, driving sustainable growth and success.

  • Miriam C. Laracuente

    PROJECT MANAGEMENT & PROCESS ENGINEERING

    I am the founder and CEO of IGNIS. I have over 25 years of experience as an Industrial Engineer. I specialize in Environmental, Health & Safety, and Ergonomics. With multiple master's degrees and a Ph.D. in Economics in progress, I bring both theoretical knowledge and practical leadership, excelling in complex projects and fostering collaborative excellence.

  • Marilyn Rodriguez-Cruz

    HOSPITALITY & EVENT MANAGEMENT

    I hold a B.S. in Hotel and Restaurant Administration, an M.S. in Hospitality Management, and am nearing the completion of a Ph.D. in Communications. I specialize in human resources and sales. I excel in enhancing operational efficiency, developing curricula, leading teams, and driving innovative solutions in hospitality and event management. Additionally, I have significant experience coordinating logistics, managing event protocols, and finding and securing accommodations for large-scale events.

  • Eunice Pérez-Medina, Ed.D.

    ACADEMIC PLANNING & ASSESSMENT

    I hold an Ed.D. and have extensive experience in faculty development, higher education administration, assessment, institutional effectiveness, and data-driven academic planning. I excel in addressing challenges in academia, leveraging my expertise to foster growth and innovation in educational environments, ensuring optimal outcomes for institutions and learners alike.

  • Luis A. Torres-Perez

    INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGY

    I co-founded Engine-4, a coworking and innovation space in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, to promote STEAM education and incubate startups. With degrees in Computer Science and Aviation Electronics, my interest in technology and innovation led to the Caribbean's first 5G NB IoT lab, fostering 5G innovation and a holistic ecosystem for transformative impacts.

  • Kevin J Ponce-García

    TECHNOLOGY & SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

    I am a Software & IoT Technology Designer with a Computer Science degree. My skills span robotics, programming, and IoT. I aim to empower leaders and organizations in tech innovations and create IoT-focused solutions for socio-ecological impact.

  • Yamil Colón, Ph.D.

    AI & MATERIALS

    I earned a B.S. and Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, focusing on computational materials research for energy applications. My work involves computer modeling, software development, and AI for different applications. I support organizations needs in data-driven solutions.

  • Héctor Tavárez, Ph.D.

    ENVIRONMENTAL & AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS

    I have a Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences (economics concentration) and a master's in Economics. I specialize in economic valuation of non-market goods, cost-benefit analysis, and viability assessment of policies.

  • Antares Ramos-Álvarez, Ph.D.

    STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT & SUSTAINABILITY

    I am a geographer and marine environmental conservation strategist with over 20 years of experience. A Puerto Rico native, I have worked with NGOs and governments in Mexico, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. I founded Antares Conservation Tactics and co-founded Sail for Reefs, Inc., focusing on climate adaptation and marine conservation.

  • Christopher Papadopoulos, Ph.D.

    SUSTAINABILITY ENGINEERING

    I am a professor of Engineering Sciences and Materials. I hold B.S. degrees in Civil Engineering and Mathematics and a Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics. I lead a sustainability engineering initiative and am active in various sustainability programs and conferences.

  • Agro. Francisco Ocasio

    AGROBUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

    I am an Agricultural Economist and founder of ECOFINCA LLC, driving sustainable agriculture. I focus on reducing food imports, promoting local produce, and improving agricultural businesses through enhanced administrative efficiency and financial strategies. My work balances production with conservation, aiming for a healthier, eco-friendly future.

  • Agro. Gabriel Fontanals

    SUSTAINABLE FARMING

    I hold a B.S. in Agronomy, specializing in Agricultural and Environmental Systems. I excel in sustainable farming, cannabis, hydroponics, and controlled environments. My work with Hydroponics Puerto Rico redefines agriculture through innovation, making me a leading figure in agrotechnological advancements.

Partners & Collaborators