Pablo Sandoval joined Willmeng as a project engineer in 2012 and quickly became a project manager. In his role, Pablo is responsible for planning, procuring, and managing projects. He ensures that high-quality results are completed safely, delivered on-time and managed within budget. With a unique personal story and background in construction, Pablo has executed building excellence on more than 243 projects during his time with Willmeng. Learn more about him in this Q&A:
How did you get started in your career?
I have been a builder ever since I can remember. As a kid, I would build dams out of mud and rocks, and as I grew older I started creating clay models of buildings and homes that I would sell in my neighborhood. In high school, I took a woodshop class that eventually lead to interest in earning a construction management degree from Arizona State University. My first experience in the field was working with a homebuilder.
What is the greatest challenge you have had to overcome in your life?
Moving to the United States when I was 15, learning English, graduating at the top of my high school class, and then going on to graduate from college with honors.
What drew you to Willmeng?
Right after college, I began working for a general contractor that built wind farms across the country. While I loved the company, people, and green energy, working remotely did not align with one of my core values: family. I decided to return home looking for a local construction company, and a friend from college and church recommended Willmeng.
What is the best advice you ever received?
Follow your passion. Be who you want to be and not what people what you to be.
What advice do you have for prospective Willmeng candidates? What personality traits thrive most at the company?
Be yourself. The diverse personality and background of each individual makes Willmeng so special.
What are three careers lessons you have learned thus far?
Do what you love to never work a day, have a purpose, and be kind to others.
How would you describe your team?
For the Willmeng team, doing the right thing comes first. We go above and beyond to serve our clients, partners, and subcontractors because we view them as extensions of Willmeng. We are all about relationships and we work as a team to present solutions, not problems.
Before working at Willmeng, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I worked as a success coach at Arizona State University by helping incoming freshman stay on track during their first year in college.
If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
My mom’s enchiladas potosinas.
How are you involved with the community outside of work? Which organizations do you support? What activities have you been involved in?
I currently serve as treasurer and member of the board of directors of the Aguila Youth Leadership Institute. As 2007 alumni, this non-profit holds a special place in my life. Aguila helps bridge the gap between high school and college for students that for lack of opportunity, resources, or knowledge may not know how to get to college. I have stayed involved throughout the years through volunteering, mentoring, and as faculty.
