“My parents are immigrants from Mexico,” Brenda shares. “They left their jobs and everything to pursue living here. It was supposed to be just for a year so my siblings could learn English, but they ended up staying. Their sacrifices are things I take into consideration.”
Brenda, the youngest of three siblings, grew up in Milwaukee. Inspired by her parents’ dedication, she embraced the opportunity to pursue higher education. She graduated from Ronald Reagan High School and went on to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration with three majors: Supply Chain Management, Risk Management and Insurance, and Operations and Technology Management in May 2025. She is proudly graduating with minimal student debt.
During her time at UW-Madison, Brenda faced challenges adjusting to campus life. “My first two years, adapting to college, were really hard,” she shares. Although it was not the easiest of starts, Brenda found her way and adds, “my [All-In Milwaukee] advisors were really supportive and wanted to see me grow.”
Throughout her college journey, All-In Milwaukee played a role in Brenda’s success by recognizing the importance of the AIM community coming together for annual events such as the Winter and Summer Institutes. “Meeting other students from different universities and having shared support is so important,” Brenda says.
She found inspiration through social events, study abroad, workshops, and the connections she made with other scholars. “Being able to meet people who have similar upbringings and are going through the same journey is very meaningful,” she shares.
Initially undecided, Brenda explored various academic paths before discovering her passion for supply chain management. A pivotal moment came when she attended a campus event that introduced her to the field. “I went to a supply chain event, and I thought it was really interesting,” Brenda recalls. “That’s when I started taking more classes and applying for internships.”
Through All-In Milwaukee, her curiosity led to two internships at AIM career partner Molson Coors, where Brenda worked in the supply chain planning department. During her time at Molson Coors, she found support through her managers and confidence and pride in the work she was doing. “I really appreciated how receptive, and supportive they were of me,” she says. “[They] always wanted me to grow and learn and do something different. I just really appreciate them being able to provide that environment for me.”
— Brenda De La Torre, AIM scholar, UW-Madison ‘25
Her leadership also extended to creating a supportive environment for other students on campus. As president of ALPHA, the Association of Latino Professionals for America, Brenda focused on mentorship and professional development, helping fellow students build connections and succeed. “Being a mentor was super helpful for my own personal growth,” she reflects. “I always thought, how can I make other people’s experiences here easier?”
After graduation, Brenda will return to Milwaukee to work at Molson Coors, where she will complete a rotational program to gain experience throughout the company. “We’re proud to welcome Brenda De La Torre to Molson Coors as a full-time team member,” said Dave Osswald, Chief People and Diversity Officer at Molson Coors. “Brenda made a strong impression during her two summer internships with us, and we’re excited to see her continue to grow and contribute in a full-time role. Her journey reflects the incredible talent and drive we see in All-In Milwaukee scholars. As we continue our partnership with All-In Milwaukee, we’re thrilled that Brenda is now one of three AIM graduates helping shape the future of Molson Coors.”
Brenda is just as excited to begin this next step in her journey. “I look forward to doing the rotations and I know they’re shorter, three month rotations, but I think [I’ll be able] to absorb a lot of knowledge within that time and be able to meet different people and different departments.” She is even more excited to be returning to Milwaukee and her family and can “give back to the community that shaped me,” she says.
In reflecting on her journey, Brenda encourages other first-generation students to embrace all opportunities and always push past self-doubt. “You’re only hurting yourself by not applying or trying. There’s nothing wrong with putting yourself out there,” she advises.
Brenda’s drive to give back to those who “helped pave the way” brought her back to Milwaukee. As she moves forward, she remains committed to giving back to the city that gave her so much.
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