Meet the Team: Uriel Gonzalez, Maintenance Director
What is your role at BRIGS, and what does your day-to-day look like? I am the Maintenance Director for the greater Boston area. My day-to-day revolves around managing the team of service technicians, communicating with portfolio managers, and solving problems.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Solving a problem and managing many different personalities. It is challenging but rewarding when I’m able to find common ground and work towards a goal to get things done.
What’s something you find challenging about your work? Managing personalities is more than half of the job and although it is challenging, it is also rewarding.
What are some hobbies you enjoy? I enjoy going for small hikes with my daughter–I like feeling unplugged from everything else, and I enjoy nourishing the bond between child and father. I also like finish carpentry.
Who inspires you? Different people have inspired me throughout my life. Most of my years, it has been my father. Although very elderly now, he and his teachings have made me the man I am today.
I've also worked for the same man for 20 years. His work ethic, dedication to growth, and sustainability is something to be admired. Though he doesn’t know he’s been a mentor to me, I will always be thankful for his teachings.
Do you have a book, movie, or TV show you are enjoying at the moment? I haven't had much time lately, but I'm currently in the middle of reading Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss.
Tell us about your ideal weekend plan. Hanging out with family and friends without work interruptions.
What’s a motto or mantra that you live by? A free man of good character and habits.
Coffee or tea? Coffee
Summer days are fleeting…what is left on your summer bucket list? I’d like to try to spend more time with my family.
What is your go-to summer treat? I enjoy going to the lake house with family and friends.
What was the best summer vacation you ever took as a kid? Why? Between the ages of 11 and 14 I was sent to my aunt's house in Puerto Rico for the summer. I have family in city and country settings and was able to spend time in both. I spent most of my time in the rural area, and what I was able to learn during those summers with my cousins was priceless. In my opinion, maturity comes a lot quicker there. I learned how to be more self-sufficient, how to deal with less, how to tap into a slower pace of life, and how to work hard and enjoy the fruits of my labor. As a grown man, I cherish these life lessons.