Meet Andres Bradway | Project Manager & Veteran

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

Hi Andres, what are you inspired by?
Oftentimes you’ll hear people refer to inspiration when talking about creativity or completing a productive task. If they aren’t referring to one of those two items, then chances are, their inspiration is directly tied to the quest of life and achievement. Not one day goes by in my life to where I don’t feel inspired. I’m truly inspired by those who have accomplished the greatest tasks when everything was against them. People who do not give up in the face of adversity, but rather seek to be comfortable in the uncomfortable. People who have done the unthinkable and paved the way for generations to come. These individuals carry three main attributes: faithfulness, dedication and perseverance. So, what am I inspired by? I am inspired by faith to believe the unbelievable. I have faith in God, my life, my wife, and my commitments. Faith inspires me to believe and to open my mind to true greatness. I am inspired by dedication to see all my relationships and work through to the highest degree. I remain dedicated to each and every meaningful person in my life. I remain dedicated to my work and to those that I serve. Dedication inspires me to stay true and to impact those around me. I am inspired by perseverance to face adversity with a smile on my face. I persevere to ensure my family and my team will reach success in the uncertain, dark, and harsh times we might face. Perseverance inspires me to never give up and to always pave the way for the future. I am inspired by faith, dedication, and perseverance to do the unthinkable, unbelievable, and most difficult tasks at hand. I hope to inspire the generations to come and that you as the reader can feel inspiration too.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
Boy oh boy, what a journey it has been! I am so proud to be back in Arizona doing something that I love. I truly enjoy the daily life of a project manager, but it’s important to highlight how difficult it was to get to this place. I shipped out for Navy bootcamp back in the fall of 2012 and I was in a rough place. I was a young man with a lot of anger and I lacked positive insight. My first few years in the Navy were tough for me. I had so much to learn, but I struggled to find happiness in most situations I was in. On top of that, my girlfriend at the time (now wife) and I saw each other for a total of 68 days in 3 years. I felt lonely and angry most days. Around my 3 – 4 year mark in the Navy I found an amazing church and Chris came into my life. It became a daily task to work on myself and improve my life. I sought out mentors on the ships and eventually began moving up the ranks and assuming positions of higher leadership. I knew I was built to lead others, but I had to work on myself so my team could see not a good leader but a great one. I was pushed constantly and faced many situations of adversity, but I always remained committed to my team. These lessons ultimately helped to build my skills and now have helped to place me in an amazing job.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Arizona is a beautiful place to visit and live. I know the heat can be pretty rough, but that’s why I have a pool! Now not everyone can come to my place, but here are some of my favorite spots around the city.

EAT

I love my latino heritage and embracing the latino culture. There are so many outstanding latino restaurants throughout Arizona, but there is one that cannot be missed. Barrio Cafe on 16th street is a truly unique yet authentic Mexican restaurant. The atmosphere changes everything. You walk in from 16th street and now you are captured by the authentic spirit of family, soul, and outstanding food. Be sure to order the Cochinita Pibil because it is some of the best food that I have ever had. If you’re up to it, order a margarita or sangria to compliment the food.

DRINK

I really enjoy a good brew and I love supporting local businesses! For a good brew you HAVE to check out Arizona Wilderness. They have a large assortment of craft beers and mixed drinks. If you’re hungry, well they got you covered! They also have a full menu of delicious food. I really love the location in Downtown Phoenix. You have to get an IPA and sit along the outdoor area and enjoy the beauty of great beers and good times.

VISIT

If you haven’t seen the sunsets in Arizona then you are missing out. The sunsets in Arizona are so beautiful and an amazing site to witness. I would highly recommend visiting Papago Park and doing some hiking along with sightseeing. Now when the sunset approaches make sure you’re in an open spot so you can witness the amazing sunset and reflection of pink and orange on the Papago hills.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are two vital people in my life that I must shoutout: my lovely wife, Crystal and my amazing pops, Chris.

Crystal is the true model of love, care, and friendship that many people seek in a partner. She has been there for me in the darkest of times and not once did she tell me to give up. She has pushed me to push myself and to always capture success. Her love makes me feel whole, it creates a warmness and eternal happiness within myself. She is incredibly beautiful and oh so sweet. Crystal, you are the greatest friend I have ever had and you are the most amazing wife. Te amo.

Chris is someone who came into my life at the perfect time and took on a difficult task. He began to mentor me, but in a way much deeper than just a leader. He took me in as a son and assumed the role of my dad. He committed love, time and energy to ensure that I am living my best life. I will forever be grateful for everything Chris has done for me. Pops, I love you and thank you for everything.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andresdbradway