Spotlight on Rafael: Botrista MVP
We are proud to spotlight Rafael this month as our MVP. Based in Los Angeles, California, he serves as a Field Service Engineer, installing BotristaPro beverage machines and providing top-notch service to our restaurant partners. Rafael actively supports his team, answers inquiries, provides on-site assistance, and ensures everyone has the tools and inventory they need.
Joining Botrista and Working with BotristaPro Beverage Machines
“After graduating with a degree in mechanical engineering, I wanted a role with rapid growth potential,” Rafael shares. “I discovered Botrista and researched the BotristaPro beverage machine. I was impressed by its innovation and the company’s drive to make a difference. My interview with VP of Hardware Operations Hector Pascal convinced me to join!”
Robotics: A Lifelong Passion
Long before joining Botrista, Rafael cultivated his passion for and knowledge of robotics while working at university robotic laboratories. “I grew my knowledge of robotics through machine learning and robotic manipulation. This was a crucial experience for me, I think it really prepared me to take on this role at Botrista. The BotristaPro beverage machine is one that I’ve come to love and understand, from the inside out.”
“I’ve always been interested in robotics and tech. As a kid, I was always fascinated by how and why things work the way they do. I was very curious, dismantling any device I could get my hands on, just to explore its components.”
Teamwork and Impact
Rafael believes teamwork drives success. “I don’t just focus on my own responsibilities; I also support teammates whenever possible, both virtually and on-site, to make a positive impact wherever I can.”
Personal Goals and Growth
One thing that Rafael plans to check off of his bucket list is completing an Ironman triathlon. “I’ve already started to train for the event. I’m training to build my strength and stamina for this intense challenge. Imagine being able to call yourself a real Iron Man—it’s a goal that I’m excited to pursue.”
Outside of work, Rafael enjoys sharing his passion for engineering with others. “I’m a mechanical design advisor for grades 9-12. I teach kids the concept of 2d and 3d CAD modeling. Students take an idea from the ground up and learn the ins and outs of 3d printing. The kids have a ton of fun with it, and I really enjoy sharing my hobby with them!”
Personal Growth and Support System
“Something I’m proud of is my personal growth journey. Working at Botrista has really helped me improve my communication skills, especially since I wasn’t very extroverted and hadn’t worked one-on-one with customers before. This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone. This growth has also spilled over into my personal life—I find myself to be more considerate, empathetic, and understanding in my relationships with family and friends.”
“My parents are my two biggest supporters. I know that I can always rely on them for a phone call when I need it. When I aim for a new goal, my parents are always there rooting for me”. Rafael’s honorable mentions are not supporters, but role models. “Jose Hernandez (the first Mexican astronaut) and Victor J. Glover (who will be the first Black astronaut to travel around the moon during NASA’s next mission) have both set the pathway for a lot of kids that look up to them. “As I was navigating my education, and even my career, thinking of their stories always reminded me that nothing is impossible.”
Favorite Botrista Drinks
Rafael’s favorites include the classic milk tea and taro milk tea. “I started with the classic, and now I’m hooked on all the fresh blends we offer,”
