Team

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Ali Afrasiabi, SE Founder and CEO

Ali is a passionate entrepreneur and experienced engineering and construction professional. With over 20 years in the industry, he has had the privilege of working with small and large structural and construction companies on a wide range of projects, from infrastructure projects to challenging commercial and multifamily constructions. He is passionate about utilizing technology to improve efficiency and quality of construction projects, and making the impossible possible.

Ali is a lover of all things adventurous. When he is not busy with strategizing, planning, or designing with his team, you can find him cruising the open sea on a boat, carving down the slopes on a snowboard, or exploring new destinations while traveling with his family.

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Hamid Mehrabi, Director of Construction and Fabrication

With 25+ years of field experience, Hamid oversees all aspects of our construction projects at REI Build Up Construction Corp, from planning to completion, ensuring that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. He manages stakeholder communications and prioritizes collaboration and transparency in his work. He also leads our recently developed fabrication division.

Hamid is fascinated by the unique designs and mechanical ingenuity of vintage automobiles. In his free time, you can find Hamid fixing and restoring retro cars with his son and bringing them back to life.

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Shawn Gupta, PE Senior Associate

Shawn stands as a seasoned Structural Engineer, boasting an extensive background in both the commercial and residential sectors. His experience encompasses a diverse array of project types, ranging from new construction to major retrofitting and revitalization initiatives. An advocate for an integrative approach in construction, he is highly competent in the realm of Building Information Modeling (BIM), showcasing his dedication to innovative methodologies. Shawn is a problem solver, and his excellent communication skills serve as a bridge in interacting seamlessly with architects, contractors, regulatory authorities, and clientele, a testament to his ability to harmonize project dynamics.

When it’s time to unwind, you’ll find Shawn on a quest for genuine, unpretentious Indian flavors or enjoying a good beer at a sports bar. Occasionally, he takes to the skies through skydiving and embraces the thrill of new adventures that life offers.

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Benjamin Ramirez, Prefabrication Shop Manager

Benjamin oversees all operations within our prefab shop. He brings extensive experience and expertise to ensure the efficient and high-quality production of structural components. With a meticulous eye for detail and a keen understanding of steel fabrication processes, he leads a skilled team in the fabrication, welding, and assembly of steel structures, upholding the highest safety standards and ensuring structures meet industry standards and project specifications.

On a perfect off day, Benjamin cheers for his favorite soccer teams or takes to the field himself. The day usually continues with a delightful BBQ session. The sizzle of the grill and the aroma of a perfectly marinated barbecue is where Benjamin feels most at home.

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Minoo Akbarian, Director of Innovation and Sustainability

From the early days of our company, Minoo has been actively involved in various supportive roles, but her true calling emerged when she recognized the critical role of the built environment in climate change. With a strong background in engineering and research, she decided to lead our efforts in minimizing our overall environmental impact. She believes that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand and as the director of innovation and sustainability at REI, she identifies technologies and innovations that help us become a trailblazing environmentally conscious small business in the construction industry.

Minoo is a firm believer in the power of food to unite cultures and create meaningful connections. She loves to travel the world with her family and find herself drawn to local markets, street food stalls, and family-owned restaurants, trying the authentic flavors and culinary heritage of each destination. At home, she tries to create those experiences for family and friends.