After first interning with Minnesota Valley in 2018, Hernandez was hired for a second 12-week internship at Minnesota Valley in 2019. He then continued to work with MVNWR as the refuge's Latino Family Liaison and Outreach Specialist, where he worked to engage local communities in conservation. 

“I’m excited to continue my work with the refuge to design and lead a robust outreach program, where all community members feel welcomed and encouraged to be stewards for the environment,” said Hernandez. 

During his time with the MANO program, Hernandez helped coordinate the refuge’s first virtual Latino Conservation Week celebration. He also helped establish a comprehensive community outreach program for MVNWR. The program helped build a new network of Latino partners and leaders in the community for the refuge. 

"Hispanic Access Foundation’s MANO Program had a profound impact on not only my professional career, but personal life as well,” said Hernandez. “Finding a career where I combined my cultural background and the passion I hold for conservation is more than I could ever ask for.”

Hernandez is proud to have helped or organized over 40 events and programs that engaged the public in conservation with over 3,500 people served.