Meet Rafael Aguilar | Innovative Designer, 3D Printing Specialist, & Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Rafael Aguilar and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Rafael, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
My thought process for starting my own business was rooted in practicality, opportunity, and empathy. I recognized the need within my school community, especially among students whose projects relied heavily on 3D printing. I made an early investment during my first year of college, which heightened my awareness of the increasing demand for 3D printing services. Guidance from my professor, Carmelia Chang, reinforced the idea of self-reliance and investment.

During my time at school, I witnessed limitations in resources, such as packed schedules at the school’s making complex and high costs of outsourcing. It became clear that I could fill the gap by addressing my personal needs in completing my degree while being positioned to assist fellow students facing similar challenges.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What drives me to do my work is the thought of someone being in my position. The feeling of a young aspiring artist/architect with passion to some days make their ideas into fruition. For me, helping design, build models, collaborating with others is my most fulfilling aspect of my work. This belief was instilled in me during my time at Woodbury University, where I learned the importance of lending a hand.

I love collaborating with others, especially aspiring architects and designers. Bringing their visions to life is the most fulfilling aspect of my work. This belief was instilled in me during my time at Woodbury University, where I learned the importance of lending a hand. I owe much of my success to the people and environment at Woodbury.

Many of the challenges I encounter mirror those I faced as a student: from unwieldy models to relentless deadlines and finicky printers. However, each hurdle has taught me the value of perseverance. No matter the obstacles, there’s always a solution waiting to be found.

My dedication to community and teamwork stems from these experiences. I’m a firm believer in extending support whenever possible, a principle deeply ingrained in me since my days at Woodbury University.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A day to me would be visiting areas from Long Beach and Downtown Los Angeles. We’d start in the morning at Claire’s at the Museum, my favorite brunch spot in Long Beach with an attached art museum. We’d enjoy mimosas and breakfast while looking into the ocean view and finish by exploring the museum’s art collection.

After brunch, we’d head to the funnel house for a funnel cake drive to the lighthouse and walk around the Shoreline Aquatic Park to enjoy the salty breeze and warm sunshine. Next, we’d head to Ballast Point Brewery to taste craft beers with a stunning view of the coastline.

Moving to Downtown LA, we’ll head to the best Nashville hot chicken in the city, Howlin Ray’s. Then we’ll cool down and visit Scoops Ice Cream for the unique and creative flavors like brown sugar horchata and Thai Tea Oreo.
Afterward, we’d start our cultural tour on Grand Ave for the cultural art museums. Begin with The Broad and end with the Disney Concert Hall before exploring Chinatown Central Plaza, sampling exotic foods, and browsing distinctive shops. Those are some of the places that I would introduce.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to recognise Woodbury University for my current experiences and support. The environment at Woodbury University is what shaped my journey and gave me the privilege to meet remarkable individuals. It not only provided me with an exceptional education but also instilled the entrepreneurial spirit and drive to pursue my dreams.

Thanks to my alma mater, I had the opportunity to meet my classmates, whom I now call my close friends, who have supported me. Their unwavering belief in my abilities propelled me towards establishing my own business. I had the support and confidence to embark on my journey.

During my time at the University, I had an impact on the people I surrounded myself with and learned a fundamental lesson. “When someone asks for help, we must lend a helping hand.” This ethos of mutual support and collaboration continues to guide my life and professional journey.

My shoutout extends to Woodbury University and all the friends who contributed to my journey, reminding me of the power of community and the importance of putting it forward.

Instagram: @ra_deadline_prints

Image Credits
Luci Osuna, Night Wing Costume, Instagram: Lucimakes Mariz Alfred Youssef, Architectural Thesis, Instagram: marizoalfredo