My first 90 days at Newgen

I’m Nicco Pelicano, the new Production Coordinator at Newgen Knowledgeworks. With a background in writing and journalism from St. Edward’s University, I’ve always found joy in storytelling—whether through my journal, a run around the lake in Austin, or a cup of peppermint tea on a cool day.

Before joining Newgen, I spent ten years in the service industry, my favorite role being a barista. I admired those who walked into cafés, books in hand, settling into quiet moments of focus and reflection. Behind the counter, I witnessed the beauty of connection—a simple drink, uniquely prepared, becoming part of someone’s daily ritual. Though I worked hard to move on, I sometimes miss the world from that side, the scent of coffee lingering long after I left.

When I started at Newgen in late September 2024, I had no idea what to expect. At that point, I had applied to so many jobs that enjoyment felt like a luxury. But as I researched the company and interviewed, I felt something different—books were in the air. Conversations about academics, publishing, and literature ignited something in me. For the first time in a while, I could picture myself somewhere that wanted me as much as I wanted to be there.

The learning curve was steep—clients to understand, books to track, workflows to master. But rather than feeling overwhelmed, I recognized something familiar: the rhythm of service, the attentiveness to detail, the quiet satisfaction of anticipating needs. In many ways, this job carried the best parts of being a barista—only now, instead of coffee, I help bring books to life.

What makes this job special isn’t just the process, but the people—clients with distinct ways of asking for what they need, each project an opportunity to create something lasting. Unlike a cup of coffee, these books will live in schools, libraries, and homes for years. And when I see one, I’ll know my work meant something, just as I always hoped it would.

At Newgen, I’ve found myself surrounded by bright, kind people who care deeply—about books, about their clients, and about each other. It’s a place I don’t dread returning to, but rather, one I look forward to growing in. That kind of culture speaks volumes.

I feel incredibly lucky to be part of the creation of books. Maybe one day, I’ll take one to a coffee shop, open it with a quiet sense of pride, and tie a beautiful blue bow on this chapter of my life—one that, finally, makes sense—because I am here.