CHRISTOPHER CASTILLO

CEO, CASTILLO ENGINEERING, MAITLAND

Castillo Engineering has come a long way from its humble roots as a rooftop solar company, evolving into a leading solar energy design and consulting firm. Castillo joined the company as vice president in 2008 and became CEO in 2020 of the firm his father founded.

EDUCATION: Davidson College (BS)

INDUSTRY TREND: The solar industry is becoming more competitive, more technical and more risk-focused. Developers are looking for engineering partners who can move quickly, reduce rework, manage flood and site risk, and bring stronger civil, electrical and structural expertise earlier in the process.

GIVING BACK: I am passionate about Prospera here in Orlando, where I serve as an advisor. I enjoy supporting fellow Hispanic leaders and entrepreneurs as they build, grow and strengthen their companies. It is rewarding to help others navigate the same challenges that come with leadership and business ownership.

PERSONAL RESET: I try to get moving, usually through exercise or a long walk and then refocus on what I can control. Setbacks are part of leadership, but I try not to sit in them too long. I look for the lesson and move forward.

FOOD FIX: A great steak dinner is hard to beat. Simple, high-quality food, preferably with family, is usually my favorite way to end a long day.