We recently had the chance to connect with Buck Martinez and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Buck , we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Family. In addition to my three beautiful daughters, I have also been fortunate to be a father figure in the lives of many young men and women, two of which lived with us for some time. Here again, I saw them yearning for father figures. They too are my family; I can confidently say they have had as much of a positive impact on the lives of the Martinez family as we may have had on their lives. I am forever grateful that they came into our lives and extremely proud of all they have accomplished – all of my children.
I am also the proud grandfather of five beautiful grandchildren. I am very lucky to be involved in all of their lives – as a coach, as a grandfather and as a friend.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Following a successful 30+ year career in the energy industry, I decided it was time to do what he was truly passionate about – mentoring others. In 2013, in partnership with my daughter Krissy Webb, I founded Student ACES, Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization with the mission to develop CHAMPIONS through our innovative programs for high school student-athletes focused on character and leadership.
The Student ACES CHAMPIONS Core Values:
• Command Respect
• Honor Your Word
• spire to Greatness
• Maintain Courage
• Possess a Work Ethic Second to Non
• Inspire Others
• Own a Winning Attitude
• Never Settle
• Sacrifice for Self and Team
What started with just 32 students has grown to impact the lives of more than 50,000 students throughout South Florida. I am passionate about investing in our youth and work countless hours serving in the capacity of teacher, mentor and coach.
Along the way, I also founded IMPACT Leadership Group where I have the opportunity to impact the lives of college students and executives across various industries, from construction to sports and everything in between, as a leadership coach and author of seven books.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I think having my first daughter really shaped my perspective on many things. As a father, it is imperative that your purpose must be much larger than yourself. Seeing life through the eyes of a dad is an amazing experience. You quickly realize that what you thought were important issues become miniscule. You also begin to see the world through the eyes of a child. Job promotions, disputes and picayune issues become unimportant in the eyes of a child. They only want to spend time with “daddy.”
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
One of my strengths is that I do not give up. I have faced a lot of adversity in the arena of sports, primarily injuries, but I was able to reprioritize and pursue other interests.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
They would easily say “family” but also mention that I have a passion for youth. Teaching honor and integrity through “Character and Leadership Training” is a passion that burns deep. I work closely with many high school and collegiate student athletes on the tough issues and challenges they face in today’s difficult world. Because of this passion, I have published 7 books on the subjects of Character and Leadership.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. What will you regret not doing?
If I didn’t pivot to what I was passionate about following my 30+ year career in energy I would have regrets, but I am fortunate to be doing what I am passionate about and only hope that our efforts will impact generations for years to come.”
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.studentaces.org
- Instagram: studentaces
- Linkedin: Student ACES, Inc.
