Raquel Reyes
Project Developer
Give us a brief overview of your role.
As a Project Developer at GSI, my role essentially revolves around project execution. This includes everything from working with GIS and land acquisition for project origination, to working with environmental consultants, engineers, and real-estate consultants in order to reach project NTP (notice to proceed). The final stage involves handing it over to the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor which would then turn to obtaining building permits.
What is the most memorable moment you have had working for GSI?
I’ve always enjoyed the annual Christmas dinners with GSI. Since everyone works remote and we’re located in different locations, it’s nice to come together and see everybody face to face at these events. It is also a great opportunity to interact with other individuals in different departments of the organization that you don’t interact with all the time.
What led you to pursue a career in Project Development in the renewable energy sector?
I began in 2019 as a Cooperative Education student for Saturn Power. I applied to 35 jobs, and only had one interview – so I kept saying “one interview, one job” and that ended up being this job! At the time, I wanted to be a conservationist or an environmental consultant, so I thought a job in the renewables would be a great opportunity to get started and for networking. I began in project coordination and ended up enjoying problem solving for project development. As a consultant, you only see one piece of the project, but as a project manager or a project developer, I get to see the whole picture.
Tell us one interesting fact about yourself that your colleagues might not know.
During my entire time at university, I was a member of the Cuban salsa club. I was actually a salsa instructor for level one and level two students, and I was the President at one point. I made choreographies and even had the opportunity to choreograph a cultural caravan performance at the University of Waterloo. I still really enjoy dancing to this day!
How do you spend your time outside of work?
Outside of work, I like to spend time with my 3-year-old son, Isaac. He is my everything. Outside of parenting, I like to read, paint, sketch, draw, and touch up on my art skills. I also still enjoy dancing at home whenever I can.
What is one thing you’d like to cross off your bucket list?
I would love to go whale watching in British Columbia in the immediate future. In the long term, I would love to do something significant in Nicaragua, where I am from, and help the environment while employing the local citizens of Nicaragua. One day I will mustard up the courage and become my own boss.
Rapid Fire Favorites
- Movie: Prince of Egypt or Shrek 1 (in Spanish)
- Book: Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
- Musician: Esteman or Kali Uchis
- Restaurant (City): The Guanaquita Restaurant (Kitchener)
- Food: Carne Asada (traditional Nicaraguan meal)
- Sports Team: Real Madrid
- City: Cancun, Mexico