Archinect
Gustavo O. Villaronga Cruz

Gustavo O. Villaronga Cruz

San Juan, PR, US

 

About 

I was born and raised in San Juan, Puerto Rico. For the last thirteen years I've been working as an Architectural Designer, Drafter and Contract Officer Representative. Besides architectural background I've done some graphic design, furniture design, ceramic pieces, wine cellar design and construction. I'm very passionate about learning thru experience. My goal as an architect is to learn as much as I could to be able to share my knowledge and skills.

Professional Achievements:
• I have a combination of education and experience that furnished a thorough knowledge of the arts and sciences underlying professional architecture, and a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the architectural principles, methods, and techniques and their applications to the design and construction or improvement of buildings. I have more than 10 years of experience working in an architects/engineering office or in architectural work, which provided me with a thorough knowledge of the fundamental principles and theories of professional architecture, for each year short of graduation from a program of study in architecture. Also, specialized experience which includes developing plans, specifications, and cost estimates for installation projects, including new construction, modification, alteration and renovations of buildings and structures. Evaluate and advise on the latest developments in the field of architecture into the technical requirements for design documents. Conduct in-house design, coordinating with other architects, engineers and technicians to ensure that all
technical areas are covered. Prepared drawings, specifications, and supporting documents for advertised or negotiated procurements for new structures and/or modifications to existing structures. Prepared sketches or revise drawings and
specifications based on the problem or condition to develop a resolution. Identified the most economical and efficient method for facility design and performance considering all functional and aesthetic requirements. Developed special reports
and briefings for high agency officials covering the preliminary planning stage through project completion. Coordinated and reviewed detail portions of work to ensure timely accomplishment, adherence to regulatory requirements and technical
accuracy. Direct the work of Computer Aided Design Drafting (CADD) technicians assigned to assist on projects. Meet with engineering/design personnel to obtain instructions and information on projects in progress. Research, analyze, and
determine efficient and feasible solutions when selecting the appropriate course of action in order to meet the intent of the project and staying within project parameters. Developed scope of work for assigned projects in coordination with other architects/engineers. Exhibited judgment and creativity to adapt design criteria involving, and to resolve architectural problems.
• AWARD: ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL FOR CIVILIAN SERVICE - 28/June/2016 Outstanding achievement while serving in direct
support of Borinquen Week activities for the US Army Garrison Fort Buchanan during the period of 11 June 2016 through 18 June 2016.
• AWARD: ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL FOR CIVILIAN SERVICE - Hurricane Maria Recovery at Ft. Buchanan from October 2017 thru December 2017 for overcoming challenging times on the job and provide support to Ft. Buchanan community by providing Damage Assessments and Damage Estimates for future repairs, provide support to clean up installation premises and clear debris caused by the hurricane damages; among other duties.
• U.S. ARMY Corp of Engineers Selection Board - USACE Louisville, KY. Selection Board Member for new Ft. Buchanan Fitness Center Annex. Applied engineering and architectural knowledge to evaluate 5 contractor proposals on July 2018. My
participation on this selection board helped Ft. Buchanan community to get the best and more qualified contractor to build this new facility.
• Child & Youth Services Facility, Ft. Buchanan Contracting officer Representative Duties (15 M awarded project) - Since December 2017 until May 29, 2020 I’ve been performing as the Contracting Officer Representative for the new Child &
Youth Services Facility in all technical phases of the work. As part of my duties I ensure that the contractor performs in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract, coordinate with the KO when issues or problems arise from the
contractor, recommend any corrective actions deemed necessary in the event of the contractor's non-conformance to the terms and conditions of the contract, recommend any Change Orders required under the changes clause in contract,
maintain all necessary records to document performance duties, review technical submittal as evaluations of submitted materials, shop drawings, quality control testing and other technical data. This brings great pride to me as professional and
as part of the U. S. ARMY community.
• Currently preparing for the NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards) – ARE (Architect Registration Examination).
• Provided architectural design and visualization for Army built projects such as the Ft. Buchanan Soldiers Plaza, Ft. Buchanan Minuteman Bowling Center Deck, Ft. Buchanan DFMWR Community Club Old San Juan Interior Facade and Flooring
proposals & Ft. Buchanan Bldg. 183 - Interior Chapel Improvements. Also provided design proposals for unbuilt projects as the Ft. Buchanan Bldg. 183 - Chapel Annex & Wood Deck, Bldg 151 Wood Deck and pedestrian connection to the Waterspout
Bldg, between others.
• Provided architectural design and visualization services for main commercial and hotel industries such as Bacardí, Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, La Concha Resort, Ballori & Farré Inc., Panadería La Ceiba, etc.


Employment 

Directorate of Public Works - Department of the Army, Army Installation Management Command, Ft. Buchanan, Guaynabo, PR, US, Engineering Technician

Duties, Accomplishments and Related Skills:

Engineering and Architectural Drafting:

Professional knowledge of engineering and architecture. Develop of complete layouts with supporting detail drawings of buildings, structures, systems or equipment where standard precedents are generally applicable but complete design criteria and specifications must be researched from standards. Use own initiative and sound judgment to determine the best placements of features and the most appropriate views to give proper emphasis, clarity of detail and professional appearance to the finished drawings. Prepare necessary drawings, specifications and supporting documents for advertised or negotiated procurements. Digital & hardcopy drawings, equipment & supplies maintenance.

*In addition to Drafting duties...

*Building Assessment & Documentation:

Conduct, as required, surveys and investigations of building sites to determine the condition of structures and to secure necessary data prior to initiating design. Prepare assessment documentation taking measurements, notes and making sketches to determine extent of necessary repairs or alterations to existing buildings, observe sites of proposed buildings to determine effects on architectural requirements, inspect work presently under construction and obtain other information necessary for preparation of preliminary drawings and work statements. Evaluate data obtained, determine methods and technology incorporating pertinent features into design considerations and solutions for deficiencies. Prepare sketches or change drawings and specification and incorporates these changes documents into the contract performance documents.

*Design Development:

Serve as subject matter expert when decision making for architectural & drafting efforts ensuring clear and professional representation of intended projects applying his own knowledge and skills preparing designs, specifications and cost estimates. Evaluate design objectives, identifies most economical and efficient procedures for building design and performance considering all functional and aesthetics requirements, and perform in-house design coordinating with other architects or engineers to assure that all technical areas are covered, areas of overlapping responsibilities between technical discipline receive proper design consideration, and that total bidding objectives and schedule are met and/or prepares necessary drawings, specifications and supporting documents for advertised or negotiated procurement. Assist engineers such as the ones responsible for the mechanical, electrical & structural for the planning and development of Major Construction projects. Answer questions concerning the architectural portions of the work, and to coordinate the design and working drawings where conflicts arise among these several phases. Write AE SOW’s, develop detailed fee estimates for project budget funding and for bid evaluation, technical specifications, and perform project management on highly complex projects. Provide technical support during negotiations on a timely manner. Manage renovation or new construction projects from conception to completion; reading, preparing, and interpreting architectural, structural, civil, industrial hygiene, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical plans and drawings; ensuring compliance with contracts and regulatory requirements.

*CAD (Computer Aided Design) Software Proficiency:

Proficiency in computer aided design and drafting in Autodesk AutoCAD 2006-2022(CADD), Revit 2015-2021(CADD/BIM), ArchiCAD 21, Adobe Photoshop & Illustrator, Lumion, etc. Apply own knowledge in architectural 3D modeling, photo rendering visualization and graphic design contributing to clear project proposals. Improvement of Engineering Division CAD capabilities. Support CME’s and DoD Civilians to improve their CAD capabilities in terms of knowledge and latest CAD versions for better work efficiency.

*Contracting Officer Representative (COR):

Assist in administering construction project and makes recommendations to contract officers concerning contract modifications as a Contracting Officer Representative for the overall planning, management, supervision, controls, coordination and execution of assignments on construction projects. Interprets local and federal construction requirements and regulations, specifications, plans, etc. to A/E firms and /or Contractors and Top Management. Report construction progress and contract compliance issues to a senior engineer, report documents inconsistencies, code violations, improper materials or techniques that are used in the applications of materials as well as substandard/poor quality workmanship, review plans and specifications to gain knowledge of the planned construction and coordination of equipment moves. Compile and update technical reports, estimates, fact sheets and status reports. Review, evaluate and determine adequacy of submittals and data from contractors covered by government contract.

Additional Information:

1) AWARD: ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL FOR CIVILIAN SERVICE

28/June/2016 For outstanding achievement while serving in direct support of Borinquen Week activities for the US Army Garrison Fort Buchanan during the period of 11 June 2016 through 18 June 2016.

2) AWARD: ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL FOR CIVILIAN SERVICE

Hurricane Maria Recovery at Ft. Buchanan from October 2017 thru December 2017.

3) USACE Selection Board:

USACE Louisville, KY. Selection Board Member for new Ft. Buchanan Fitness Center Annex. Applied engineering and architectural knowledge to evaluate 5 contractor proposals.
July 2018.

4) Child & Youth Services Facility, Ft. Buchanan
Contracting officer Representative Duties (15 M awarded project):

Since December 2017 to present I perform as the Contracting Officer Representative for the new Child & Youth Services Facility in all technical phases of the work. As part of my duties I ensure that the contractor performs in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contract, coordinate with the KO when issues or problems arise from the contractor, recommend any corrective actions deemed necessary in the event of the contractor's nonconformance to the terms and conditions of the contract, recommend any Change Orders required under the changes clause in contract, maintain all necessary records to document performance duties, review technical submittals as evaluations of submitted materials, shop drawings, quality control testing and other technical data.

Nov 2014 - current
 

Jorge I. Cid Architect, San Juan, PR, US, AIT - Architectural Assistant and Field Supervisor

Position Requirements:
• Served as Architectural Assistant and Field Supervisor – Architectural design: schematic, preliminary, design development and construction documents. Furniture design. Collection of field data and data transfer for as-built documents, 3d modeling, renderings and photo-montage compositions. Architect for the overall planning, management, supervision, controls, coordination and execution of assignments on construction project. Conducted field investigations during project progress to insure compliance with design requirements. Conferred with construction personnel to resolve problems; creating design plans to convey concepts in order to produce working drawings; and translating data into construction documents for revisions. Annotate appropriate comments and recommendations to supervisor on review of design packages.
• Prepare architectural design and construction drawings and specifications for new construction, renovation, and improvement projects.
• Compile data from site visits, investigations, surveys to assess drawings needed for as-built documents, draft layouts of floor plans, 3d modeling, renderings and photo-montage compositions. Prepare layouts of floor plans, plumbing, air conditioning, and electrical systems to assist architectural and engineering personnel.
• Determines color, texture and pattern for interior architectural finishes and certain exterior finishes.
• Serve as advisor and consultant to clients and managers to assist users in the selection of interior furnishings to provide psychologically correct facilities.
• Serve as liaison with manufacturers to assure obtaining the best available products and materials.
• Prepared architectural drawings of existing historical valued structures to be archived at the “Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña de Puerto Rico”.
Accomplishments:
Provided a large sum of architectural project 3D perspectives that helped the clients to visualize the project before construction. Most of these projects were Residential or Commercial. My architectural documentation and drafting
proficiency also helped to ease the projects development. This experience helped me improve my architectural and construction knowledge and skills before and after my Architect Professional Bachelor Degree completion. Also exposed me to different clients from multiple backgrounds as publicity, communications, retail, etc. Exhibited analytical skills to evaluate, identify and eliminate potential problems areas associated with the coordination and projects requirements.
Communicate effectively with third parties on architectural matters for planning purposes. Resolve conflicting views in projects by injecting the appropriate engineering approach. Devised approaches to accomplish work, resolve basic
architectural design and operational problems. Review documentation on design, products and procedures to inform about technical sufficiency. Experience performing "during-construction" tasks, responding to requests for information by the contractor, provide site observation and written reports of construction.

May 2008 - current
 

Child & Youth Program Services, Department of the Army, Guaynabo, PR, US, Child & Youth Program Assistant

As a CYPA at Fort Buchanan I was responsible of the Arts & Crafts area in the School Age Center. Also, in charge of the DIY Club where we develop more challenging projects with the children. Our first project was the creation of concrete lamps. This was an exciting project because of the complexity of the process. We had children from first graders to fifth graders at our club. I provided care/supervision, oversight and accountability for program participants in compliance with DoD, Army and local policies, guidance, and standards.

Aug 2013 - Oct 2014
 

Architect by contract - Ballori’s House Project, Tintillo Hills, Bayamón P.R., Project Architect

Position Requirements:
• AIT - Project Architect for Eduardo & Conchita Ballori house remodeling. – Architectural design: schematic, preliminary,
design development and construction documents. Collection of field data and data transfer for as-built documents, 3d
modeling, renderings and photo-montage compositions. Provide consulting services for architectural finishes.
• Assists Users in the selection of interior furnishings to provide psychologically correct facilities.
Accomplishments:
Learned to adjust and adapt to sudden changes in plans and priorities impacting assigned duties while keeping
required quality. Working independently in this particular project helped me develop in management and
communication skills that today reflect on everything I do; specially when I perform as Contracting Officer
Representative.

Dec 2011 - May 2013
 

Design Graph, San Juan, PR, US, Architectural drafter

Position Requirements:
• Use new technology to produce fast, high quality measured drawings. Provide clear and accurate records of existing
conditions with concise details determined by architectural plan standards to clients as architects, building owners,
developers, interior designers, construction companies, engineers, and facilities managers.
• Proficient experience in performing plan drawing reduces as-built production time significantly. Perform the use of
technology links laser tools with hand-held computers to allow for swift onsite data collection and verification.
Accomplishments:
I take pride on my attention to detail and dedication to quality assurance, values reflected as a team effort in our steadily
growing base of regular clients while working at this firm. This is clearly reflected on my present position where attention
to detail is so important for an outstanding performance.

Feb 2006 - May 2008
 

Education 

Polytechnic University of Puerto Rico (PUPR), San Juan, PR, US, BArch, Architecture

Aug 2002 - Oct 2010
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills