The Real Harris: Meet Luis Chanona

What led you to this Industry?

“I got my architecture degree 14 years ago in Mexico. With a passion for buildings and their design, I have specialized in 3-D modeling and BIM for the majority of my career. I have experience working on many large projects throughout Mexico, such as Honda manufacturing facilities, the new Foster + Partners, FR-EE airport (unfortunately cancelled with a change in the political climate), complex multiscreen cinemas and the petrochemical industry. It’s an exciting challenge for me to bring my design skills to mechanical specific engineering and design.”

What do you love about Harris?

“I enjoy the variety of work that we get – each project is different so it gives me an opportunity to gain experience in new areas of mechanical systems and BIM development, and learn new things. A good example would be learning how to calculate air ducts – as an architect, this was something new for me that will help me on future projects. Also, the Design Studio team is a fun team to be a part of. We all have a great rapport with each other, and my boss feels more like a friend. In addition, in the Design Studio, we care not only about providing comfortable environments, we care about energy efficiency; and as an architect, it is work that looks professional and I can be proud of.”

What is the best part of your position, what are your main responsibilities?

“I’ve been with Harris for a year, and in that time, I’ve supported the implementation of BIM in the design phase which has been exciting. Although our team is small, we’re dynamic, versatile and accept any challenge we come across, and that has helped motivate us to be successful. I enjoy working on proposals and am excited to hear when our customers are not only satisfied but that they like our work and innovative ideas. It’s very motivating when we win.”

What is something Harris employees may not know about you?

“When I was a teenager, I practiced Kung fu Wu-Shu for more than 6 years and in 1999, I was the National Champion in Mexico. I also like motorcycles, but I don’t know how to ride one.”

What helps you be successful and/or what keeps you up at night?
“A quote I came across said, “Work hard, be kind,” and I believe that this will lead to success in any profession at any level. I also think we can always improve, personally and professionally, so that can keep me up at night!”

Who or what inspires you or motivates you?

“Bruce Lee. Not only was he a good martial artist and actor, but he was also a philosopher. He once said, “Be water my friend,” which I find to be inspirational. He saw that water would adapt to whatever shape it was in and I feel like that is representative of my time at Harris – I have been continuously adapting because I am an architect working in mechanical design. Lee also said that water can be calm yet powerful at the same time – in design, we keep things simple but have powerful ideas.”

What are you most proud of at Harris?
“I am proud of the opportunities that Harris grants its employees and the trust the company helps build.”