Ascend Austin x ALPFA Austin Post Engage Social

Andrew Hourigan Reyes is a Program Manager with the Google Cloud Finance Optimization Office, working on planet-scale automation and scalable reporting projects. He has worked at Google for 4 years, and is a member of the Hispanic Googlers employee resource group (HOLA). He is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where he studied supply chain and mechanical engineering. Outside of work, he is a classically trained musician, enjoys reading, and watching formula 1.

Shweta is a CPA by trade, but her true passion lies in building and strengthening communities. A first-generation immigrant from India, she carries with her the values, traditions, and resilience shaped by her upbringing, while embracing the innovation and opportunities of life in the United States. Having experienced two worlds, she has learned to balance the richness of her heritage with the fast-paced demands of the corporate world. Shweta believes that meaningful change doesn’t always happen in sweeping gestures—it often begins with small, consistent actions at the ground level, guided by a vision for lasting impact. Whether in her professional role or through her community work, she is driven by a simple yet powerful belief: every connection counts, and every effort matters.

Mark brings over 15 years of experience in his field, with a proven track record of supporting multi-national companies through innovative, multidisciplinary solutions in workforce, rewards, compensation, and tax. Originally from Los Angeles, Mark’s career has taken him from New York City back to LA and then to Austin, where he now calls home. His diverse background and cross-border expertise position him as a trusted advisor for strategic initiatives, helping organizations navigate complex talent models and drive meaningful business outcomes.

Jay is a Senior Manager with PwC’s Deals practice, based out of Austin, having more than 6 years of experience with PwC. He has a passion for supporting clients in navigating technical accounting and reporting issues with clarity and precision in connection with complex transactions, including business combinations, capital raises, and investments. He has advised Fortune 500 clients in a number of industries, including power & utilities, technology, media, and financial services. He actively participates and contributes to PwC’s inclusion networks and currently serves as a co-lead in the firm’s Pan Asian Community Inclusion Network (PACIN) for the US Deals Practice.