ELIAS VIDAL PLAZA

Global Early Talent Program in Finance
Mexico
Why did you choose to apply for the Global Early Talent Program (GETP)?

My name is Elías Vidal, and I’m a 24-year-old Mexican graduate with a degree in engineering and a minor in Business Administration. I’ve always been passionate about economics and finance, and I wanted to find a way to combine those interests with my technical background. After finishing university, I was looking for an opportunity that would allow me to grow professionally, explore different areas of business, and gain international experience.

The Global Early Talent Program (GETP) at ABB stood out right away. The chance to rotate through different roles and countries, while working in a global company, felt like the perfect fit. ABB’s strong reputation in robotics and automation made it an easy decision. I was especially drawn to the opportunity to work across departments and build a network that spans different parts of the business.

What are your main takeaways from your time in the Global Early Talent Program?

One of the most rewarding parts of the program has been the people. Since my first assignment, I’ve had the chance to work with supportive managers and a great mentor who encouraged me to stay curious, speak up, and look for ways to improve how we work. That kind of environment has helped me grow a lot, both professionally and personally.

I’ve learned how important it is to be adaptable, especially when working with teams from different countries and backgrounds. I’ve also been focusing on developing my soft skills, like team management and clear communication. Being able to tailor my message to different audiences and understand their needs is something I’m continuing to work on.

“What stood out to me is the culture.
People are open, collaborative, and always willing to help. There’s a strong focus on learning and development.”

Our values are the cornerstone of our culture. They shape everything we do, guide our behavior and interactions with our colleagues, customers, partners and society as a whole, and help us realize our purpose. By living our four ABB values, we lead by example in how we do business and behave.
What has surprised you most about working at ABB?

Before joining ABB, I thought most of the roles would be focused on manufacturing or engineering. But once I got here, I quickly realized how many different paths there are. There are opportunities in finance, marketing, digital innovation, sustainability, and many other areas. It’s a much more diverse company than you might expect.

What also stood out to me is the culture. People are open, collaborative, and always willing to help. There’s a strong focus on learning and development. If I had to describe ABB in one sentence, I’d say, “ABB is a great place to grow.”

What motivates you most at work?

What motivates me most is the people I work with and the daily interactions I have with my colleagues. Being part of a team that values curiosity and continuous improvement keeps me engaged and excited about what I do. I’m currently working as a Finance Analyst for the Robotics business in Västerås, Sweden, and every day brings new challenges and learning opportunities. That ongoing support and encouragement from my team has played a big role in my development.

What advice would you give to students interested in applying to a graduate program at ABB?

If you’re passionate about finance, engineering, or technology and want to work in a global, fast-paced environment, I would definitely recommend applying to the GETP. 

My advice is to stay open to new experiences, ask questions, and take every opportunity to learn. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. You’ll grow more than you expect, and you’ll meet amazing people along the way who will support and inspire you.

What if your ideas could run the world?
Run what runs the world. Join the team.