---
title: "The Heart Behind the Hard Hat: Fernando Rey"
description: A Power Design spotlight on Fernando Rey — from apprentice beginnings to building the leaders of tomorrow.
---

[Construction News and Blog | Power Design ](https://www.powerdesigninc.us/news)

# [The Heart Behind the Hard Hat: Fernando Rey](https://www.powerdesigninc.us/news/the-heart-behind-the-hard-hat-fernando-rey)

 Written by [Power Design](https://www.powerdesigninc.us/news/author/power-design) | Oct 17, 2025 2:59:51 PM

When Fernando Rey left Havana, Cuba, for the U.S., he carried more than a technical background; he brought the family values that still guide him today: integrity, loyalty, and hard work. Hear from Fernando himself ⬇️

 

 

After spending some time in Miami, Fernando moved to Jacksonville, where a friend introduced him to Power Design. That friend was a member of our #PDIFamily, [Senior Superintendent Walter Naranjo,](https://www.powerdesigninc.us/news/a-senior-super-series-austin-edition) the mentor who helped shape his career. **“Walter challenged me, inspired me, and helped me grow into the leader I am today,” **Fernando said.  

 

More than two decades later, Fernando now leads major projects as a Senior Superintendent and mentors others just as Walter once mentored him.  

 

Beyond the job site, Fernando is passionate about introducing the next generation to the trades. After visiting a local high school to share his story, one student later applied to Power Design and became an apprentice.  

 

His advice to the next generation is simple: **“Be humble, be ambitious, and put in the work. Listen to your mentors. One day, you’ll be in my position, and nothing will make me happier than passing the torch.”** Fernando said.  

 

After 21 years, Fernando’s story is one of gratitude and legacy, a reminder that at Power Design, it’s about more than building structures. It’s about building people.  

 

[View full post](https://www.powerdesigninc.us/news/the-heart-behind-the-hard-hat-fernando-rey)

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