Today we’d like to introduce you to Cesar Fuentes
Hi Cesar, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and have lived in Austin, Texas, since 2003.
I moved to Austin from New York as an IBM employee. During my time at IBM, I advanced to the role of Senior Executive Manager, overseeing global operations with more than 200 employees under my leadership.
The 2008 Great Recession and Financial Crisis was a turning point in my career. Many people I knew in the construction industry lost their jobs, which motivated me to find ways to employ as many as I could.
With a Master’s Degree in Construction Engineering and Management from Purdue University and over a decade of experience as a certified Project Management Professional, I launched my real estate investment and construction businesses.
Since 2008, I have flipped over 50 properties, led more than 15 development projects, and founded Q Construction Solutions and Cabinet Couture.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, meditating, gardening, and engaging in ocean-related activities. I also have a passion for great food, learning, arts and crafts, and bringing creativity and enthusiasm to everything I do.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The company’s early days were challenging and full of valuable lessons. The first major hurdle was transitioning from being an Executive Manager with hundreds of employees to becoming employee #1 of a startup. I went from receiving a regular paycheck to being paid sporadically as projects were completed, and I had to take on multiple roles to establish systems and operations from the ground up. My approach has always been to continuously improve the operation at every step and to embrace the opportunity to learn from each mistake.
As you know, we’re big fans of Q Construction Solutions / Cabinet Couture. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Q Construction Solutions is an award-winning construction management firm owned by engineers, with a proven track record of over 600 completed residential and commercial projects. We specialize in creating exceptional spaces that meet the highest industry standards while enhancing the daily lives of our clients. Our services include new construction, full home renovations, kitchen and bath remodels, ADUs, additions, conversions, commercial improvements, and more.
What sets us apart is our meticulous attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and extensive industry network. Our team consists of professionals with diverse backgrounds in design, engineering, and construction management. Regardless of project size or type, the client is our top priority. We approach every project as if it were our own home or property. As a result, Q Construction has earned multiple prestigious awards, including the 2024 Best Remodeler in Austin by the Home Builders Association, and NARI’s 2024 and 2025 Remodeler of the Year Awards.
Last year, we rebranded Q Construction’s kitchen and bath design-build division, naming it Cabinet Couture. Cabinet Couture specializes in helping designers, architects, contractors, and homeowners navigate the vast options in custom cabinetry. This year, one of Cabinet Couture’s projects was recognized as a NARI Regional Award winner. We have exciting plans for Cabinet Couture, including the upcoming launch of our new showroom on Burnet Rd, Austin’s design corridor. At the showroom, we will feature exquisite custom cabinet lines from Europe and North America, all while providing the same client-focused attention that has set us apart for so long.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
By nature, I’m a risk-averse individual. I often find myself evaluating the risks of significant decisions, considering alternatives to mitigate those risks, and developing contingency plans for worst-case scenarios. However, I never forget that a life without taking risks is a life without accomplishments. Every decision you make carries some level of risk.
During my early startup days, as I encountered a multitude of obstacles and challenges, I wrote a simple phrase on a piece of paper: “My desire for success must be greater than my fear of failure.” I taped it to the dashboard of my old pickup truck and read it every morning. It reframed my mindset and inspired me to achieve great things. Along the way, I also connected with successful entrepreneurs and expanded my network of like-minded individuals. Most people don’t think this way, but you have to choose not to be complacent. It’s also essential to leverage passion as your fuel. In my case, my passion was helping others—employing and guiding individuals to achieve fulfilling careers, helping clients realize their life-changing dreams, and collaborating with other industry experts who value excellence. This passion ultimately motivated me to leave my job, start my own business, hire my first employee, and more.
It’s up to each individual to plant the seed, nurture it, and reap the rewards. It won’t be easy, and it will take significant effort. But the outcome could be far greater than you ever imagined.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.qconstructionsolutions.com and www.cabinetcouture.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/q_construction_solutions_atx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qconstructionsolutions
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fuentescesar/
Image Credits
Residential project images: Avery Nicole
Staff images: Katia Forero
Commercial project image: Chase Daniel
