At Charter Construction, our connection to Nashville runs deep, and we’re proud to highlight team members who share that connection. Aaron Garcia, Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) Coordinator, is an individual whose journey in construction is rooted in family tradition and personal growth.
Growing Up Around Blueprints
Aaron grew up immersed in the construction world after his parents immigrated from Mexico to Nashville. His father and uncles built homes throughout the area, and their influence shaped his early understanding of construction.
“Being with my father and uncles, they would show me how to read plans—pointing out where things would go and how structures come to life,” Aaron recalled. “That exposure inspired me to follow a construction path.”
This early foundation led Aaron to enroll at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, where he focused on residential construction drawings and programming. As Charter was expanding its VDC department, a recommendation from his professor opened the door for Aaron to step into commercial construction—a field he hadn’t initially considered. He joined the Charter team part-time shortly before graduating in 2019 and quickly embraced the challenge.
“Charter gave me a chance and taught me everything I know,” Aaron said. “I knew how to navigate drawings, but their guidance helped me take those extra steps to really grow.”
Laying the Groundwork for Precision and Success
In his role as VDC Coordinator, Aaron plays a pivotal part in ensuring that construction projects are off to a smooth start. Using 3D modeling to integrate and coordinate design disciplines, he helps identify and resolve potential issues before construction begins.
Aaron’s meticulous approach ensures that architectural designs are accurate and aligned with other disciplines, from structural elements to electrical and plumbing layouts. His work requires a sharp eye for detail and a problem-solving mindset.
“Sometimes, on one set of drawings, a room might be labeled as 10 by 11 feet, but on another, it’s 10 and a half by 11 feet,” Aaron explained. “We ask clarifying questions to determine what’s correct and make sure the plans are accurate before moving forward. It’s all about catching those little inconsistencies early.”
This proactive coordination keeps projects on track while fostering collaboration across stakeholders—ensuring that every element fits together seamlessly.
Learning from the Best, Leading the Next
Reflecting on his first project—a parking garage in Nashville—Aaron fondly remembers the mentorship he received from Dennis Chambers, a longtime Charter project manager who left a lasting impact before his passing in 2020.
“Dennis taught me a lot and had so much patience,” Aaron said. “He made sure I understood what was happening and guided me step by step.”
Now, five years later, Aaron is paying that mentorship forward as the VDC team continues to grow. He plays a key role in training interns and offering guidance to new team members.
“One of the things I love most about Charter is the family atmosphere,” Aaron shared. “Whenever someone new starts, it reminds me of when I first got here and how people helped me. I’m proud to do the same for others.”
Building the Future Together
Aaron’s journey at Charter is a testament to how mentorship, innovation, and teamwork drive growth and success. His story reflects the spirit of collaboration and learning that continues to shape our work and culture.
We’re proud to spotlight Aaron and celebrate his contributions to building a stronger future for both our projects and our team.