Before joining the department, Hernandez delivered more than $4 billion in development for AECOM Tishman, contributing to landmark projects that include the Waldorf Astoria renovation, International Gem Tower and the structural re-massing of 390 Madison Avenue.

A first-generation Cuban-American and mentor to young professionals, he remains active in STEM outreach through the Stevens Institute of Technology STEP program and in community service in New Jersey.

How did you break into the industry?

During my sophomore year at Stevens, I landed an internship at Stantec through the co-op program. I got to work on some really interesting highway, subway, and bridge projects. But every time I visited the field, the work had already progressed beyond what I had envisioned from the design side, in the office. I found it frustrating that I didn’t fully understand how everything was coming together and felt like I was missing part of the story. That experience pushed me toward the construction side. In my junior year, I joined Tishman Construction on the International Gem Tower project, where I worked closely with different project managers and superintendents from superstructure through lobby fit out. That hands on experience made it clear that construction was where I wanted to be.

What is one challenge that you have overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?

Early in my career, as I made the jump from the design side to the construction side, that shift came with a steep learning curve. I had to unlearn certain habits and quickly adapt to the fast-paced, field-driven mindset of construction management. It meant developing a sharper sense of urgency, learning to tune out distractions, and focusing on straightforward, practical solutions that actually move the work forward.

Now, working on large-scale efforts like the jails program, the challenge has evolved. The focus has been learning to speak the language of everyone involved: contractors, consultants, designers, sponsor agencies, authorities having jurisdiction and other key stakeholders. Each group views and approaches problems differently and values different things. Being able to understand those perspectives and communicate clearly across disciplines and collaborators has been key to keeping projects aligned and moving in the right direction.

What is your favorite project and what challenges did you overcome on it?

390 Madison was one of the most complex projects I have worked on, especially from a structural stability standpoint. The amount of reinforcement, column load transfers, and retrofitting involved, combined with the tight sequencing required to maintain stability and the pressure of a fast-moving schedule, made it a huge challenge. It is not my favorite because it was easy. It is my favorite because it pushed me. That is where I really cut my teeth. I walked away with a lot of lessons that still guide me today. Since then, I have developed a real appreciation for projects that involve reimagining existing buildings.

What is the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is problem solving. Every day brings something new, and it feels like playing chess in three dimensions. I love the fast pace and the dynamic nature of the work, it keeps me sharp. What really makes it meaningful is the people. I get to work with talented, experienced professionals who challenge me and help me grow. It is a privilege to be part of that kind of environment. No two days are the same. I love it.

How do you maintain a work life balance?

It took me a while to figure this out, but I have learned how important it is to disconnect from work on a regular basis. Sometimes the best way to solve a problem is to take a step back. For me, the best part of the day is coming home to my wife and kids (Lucas who is one, and Sophia who is six). I am all in for the evening routine: dinner, dishes, homework, reading, piano practice with Sophia and bedtime stories. On weekends we spend time at church and go roller skating, that has become our family sport.

What is your career advice for other young professionals in the industry?

Surround yourself with people who are willing to teach, and be ready to learn. Absorb everything, be a sponge. Whether it is accounting, design, fieldwork or legal, understanding how the full picture fits together will make you better at what you do. Find mentors by asking questions and noticing who takes the time to answer. Those are the people who will help you grow. Do not expect anything to be handed to you. Be dependable, do the work, show up, add value, and earn your place on the team.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years, and what goals have you set for yourself to get there?

In 10 years, I hope to still be working on challenging projects, mentoring others and helping develop the next generation of builders. I want to keep contributing to work that has real impact and projects that solve complex problems, and to make a difference in the communities they serve.

One item on my personal bucket list is to work on a major bridge or tunnel project before I retire. It’s the kind of engineering and construction challenge I’ve always admired, and I’d love to be part of something on that scale. We’ll see where the road leads, but for now, I’m focused on doing great work and continuing to grow along the way.