For Dr. Gustavo Pizarro, Pipestone’s Vice President of Latin America, becoming a U.S. citizen was more than completing paperwork—it was the culmination of a decade-long commitment to his life, family, and career in the United States. On a beautiful day at Mount Rushmore, Gustavo took the Oath of Allegiance, a moment he describes as the most meaningful of his journey.
“The oath, of course—I mean, that’s awesome!” Gustavo shared when asked about his favorite part of the process. “It was a party! If you ask me, the whole process is the oath. That’s the biggest moment.”
A Legal Path Paved with Purpose
Gustavo joined Pipestone full-time in 2012. His story is a testament to the legal immigration process done right—something he is passionate about encouraging.
“I think to be fair, I was blessed to be promoted by a company,” Gustavo acknowledges. For professionals like him, the path is well-defined: beginning with work visas such as the H-1B, moving toward a Green Card, and after at least five years, becoming eligible to apply for citizenship. While lengthy, he describes the process as “very straightforward.”
The Importance of ‘Doing Things the Right Way’
One message Gustavo stresses is the value of patience, integrity, and following the legal process. Citizenship applicants undergo an extensive background check, records review, and an in-person interview—including a civics test on U.S. history and government.
Gustavo is quick to credit Pipestone’s HR team as an invaluable resource for employees navigating these steps. “Because the process is so transparent, they can really assist anyone along the way. Don’t be afraid to set a goal like citizenship,” he encourages, highlighting Pipestone’s commitment to supporting team members.
The Sense of Belonging
When asked what motivated him, Gustavo’s answer is simple: “I love the USA. This is the place I picked to live.”
A Green Card gave him residency, but citizenship provided something deeper—a true sense of belonging. “Everyone has been so nice and welcoming,” he says, especially pointing to his Pipestone colleagues and community.
“It makes you feel, you know, like you belong.”
That belonging extends beyond his professional role. Gustavo demonstrates commitment daily as a leader at Pipestone, an engaged community member, and a dedicated father. For his children, watching their dad take the Oath of Allegiance at one of America’s most iconic landmarks was a moment of pride and inspiration.
After years of diligence, patience, and unwavering dedication, Gustavo is now a U.S. citizen. His story is a powerful reminder that with determination and a focus on the legal path, achieving citizenship is not only doable—it’s worth it.
