The Entrepreneur: Rafael Gonzalez

CEO, Engipartners, Based at WeWork Coral Gables

What: Engipartners is an engineering firm focused on design and consulting for general contractors, architects, electricians, plumbers and others in the building trade. In the Gables at WeWork since 2018, now with 20 employees, including drafters and designers. 

Who: Company founder Rafael Gonzalez, 33-years-old, is a native of Puerto Rico, where he earned his degree in engineering. He came to Florida in 2013, earned an MBA at the University of Miami.

Why Coral Gables? “I live downtown and like its walkable urban design. I did my MBA at UM, so I knew the area. I wanted to be close to the campus, because I like the university culture. I also like the WeWork facilities here… I like the architecture of Giralda Place and the city in general. It’s colonial with a modern mix.”

Why Start Up? In early jobs, Gonzalez says he didn’t find the right challenge, and felt overqualified for many available positions. “With my engineering and business degrees, I thought I could offer greater value to society if I started my own company.”

Pros of Coral Gables? “There’s a great reputation when clients see the office address is in Coral Gables.”

Covid Impact? Although the team is largely working remotely now, “We’ve found construction hasn’t been affected as much as other industries… We haven’t had to downsize.”