Genaro Bravo (...Cont.) << Return Genaro graduated in 1984 and took his professional exam the same year. In February 1985, Genaro received his professional license from Mexico. The economy in Mexico at that time had hit rock bottom so he decided to come to the United States of America to pursuit his dream of learning the language. He knew the lyrics to all of the Beatles' songs, but he had no idea at the time as to what they meant. He enrolled in the English as a Second Language program at Wyoming Community Education. He worked during the day and attended school during the night. He was able to master the language in nine months and that achievement allowed him a year later to land a job with WW Engineering & Science - Facilities Group. During the four years that he worked for them, he had the opportunity to learn not only the way architects work in the United States, but also had the opportunity to learn how all of the disciplines work together. This opportunity allowed him to continue learning and developing his architectural and building knowledge. Thanks to people like Roger Johr, Ward Walters, Dan Esch, Walt Hanson, Ted Cline, Terry Pahl, Chuck Bergman, and many others, his assimilation to this culture was an easy transition. After leaving WW Engineering & Science, he went to work the next thirteen years for another architectural/engineering firm. This opportunity allowed him to work on different types of projects all over the United States, and especially in the State of Michigan. Projects types ranging from retail, institutional, educational, health care, commercial, life science, space programming, medical office buildings, research facilities, interior architecture, tenant-build outs and construction administration. During the time Genaro became a volunteer with Grand Rapids Public Schools. While mentoring there he met his wife, and now they have two beautiful children. He volunteers with AYSO Region 571 as a soccer coach, and is an avid soccer player. Genaro's ability to connect with people makes working with him an enjoyable experience. He brings an understanding of the human needs and is able to translate them into buildings that make architecture an enjoyable experience. In 2003, he formed Bravo Architects, Inc. He hit the ground running by starting work on the $22 million additions and renovations of Harrison Park Elementary Middle School for Grand Rapids Public Schools and the $16 million John C. Kennedy Hall of Engineering for Grand Valley State University. It is his drive and dream to succeed in the pursuit of the American Dream that makes Genaro and Bravo Architects Inc., special. Genaro and his team are confident that they can provide an unparalleled level of service based on their experience and ability to listen and translate clients' needs to reality.