Texas A&M University San Antonio School of Business Library

I began my career in the residential and commercial construction sectors, gaining hands-on experience in my family’s business. This foundation sparked my passion for the construction industry, and over time, I developed a strong expertise in project estimating. Estimating has become the core of my career, and I take pride in accurately forecasting costs and ensuring projects are delivered within budget and on time. Today, I am excited to be part of the Millard Drywall team, where I have the opportunity to further refine my estimating skills while contributing to the success of the company. I embrace the challenges that come with this role and am dedicated to growing both professionally and personally. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my children and family, attending church, staying active through exercise, and exploring new places on road trips or outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and camping. These activities fuel my creativity and provide a fresh perspective that I apply to my work. When relaxing at home, I enjoy watching movie with my children’s or a good series to unwind.

Manuel has been with Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction, Inc., l since its inception in 2007, making him our first employee. As the warehouse manager, he keeps our facility well-organized and efficient. Manuel has a passion for soccer and has spent many years teaching and coaching young players. He’s been married for 29 years and has three wonderful children.

I was born and raised in Coahuila, Mexico, where I lived for 23 years and attended the Technological University of the Carboniferous Region. In 2014, I married my wonderful wife, Yvonne, and in 2015, we decided to move to San Antonio, Texas. There, we embraced new challenges, including the most important one: welcoming our daughter, and later our son. In July 2020, I began my career with Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction, Inc., as a Foreman, overseeing multiple projects. This experience helped me develop and manage the resources needed to achieve the goals set by the project team. In 2024, I was promoted to Safety and Quality Control Inspector, focusing on providing the tools and resources to ensure the well-being and safety of our employees, so everyone can return home safely each day. I strive to foster a work environment that delivers the highest quality standards, showcasing the professionalism and dedication of our team.

Cesar Rodriguez began his career as a laborer but soon advanced to a more prominent position as a Project Engineer within the company. His passion for technology sparked in middle school, and he particularly enjoys exploring new software and has a keen interest in graphic design. Cesar has three younger siblings whom he cares for deeply, and the family shares a beloved husky named Canelo. In his free time, Cesar enjoys editing photos, designing logos, spending time with friends online, or going out for drives and meals together.

From a young age, I knew I would end up working in the construction field. Growing up as a tomboy, I enjoyed spending weekends with my father at construction sites, where I helped him as his assistant. Although I studied cosmetology, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. I worked for various small construction companies before taking a break to get married and raise my children. In 1999, I reentered the workforce, securing a job at a year-round tax office. After 12 years, the company was sold, and I found a new role as an office administrator at a mobile home refurbishing company for three years. I then moved into the purchasing department of a roofing company before transferring to a painting and roofing company. Seeking better opportunities, I landed an interview with Mrs. Mary Millard. It was the best 2 ½ hour interview I’ve ever had, meeting Mr. Millard and the rest of the Millard team. I happily accepted their offer and am now fully immersed in the construction world as a proud member of the Millard team. With my children grown, I spend most of my free time enjoying being a grandma to my wonderful grandkids.

With a wealth of experience in the construction industry, Cristian has developed a deep expertise in both residential and commercial drywall projects. Since focusing on drywall estimating, Cristian has become a key player at Millard Drywall, providing accurate and cost-effective bids that ensure the success of each project. Originally from Houston Tx, Cristian made Austin Tx his home very recently. Through years of hands-on experience working directly on job sites, collaborating with contractors, and managing complex project details, he brings a practical, solution-driven approach to every estimate. Outside of work, Cristian enjoys spending time with his family, whether it’s relaxing at home or embarking on long road trips. He also has a passion for working on his truck, finding satisfaction in the hands-on challenges that come with maintaining it. When not spending time with loved ones or working on his truck, Cristian enjoys staying active through regular workouts and running, finding balance and energy in fitness.

Paco has over 30 years of experience in residential and commercial construction, focusing exclusively on commercial projects since 1998. Originally from Laredo, he made Austin his permanent home in 1978. He holds a BA degree from the University of Texas. Paco takes great pride in his role as safety director, which he enjoys immensely. He is married and the proud father of three sons. In his free time, Paco loves spending time with his dogs, Maximo and Yuki, and playing poker with his longtime friends once a month.

Diego Perales, a member of the second generation to join the Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction, Inc., team, began his journey with the company in 2019. He started his construction career as a Helper in the field and has since worked his way up to the position of Project Manager. Diego is dedicated to fostering lasting relationships with clients and industry partners, contributing to the company’s ongoing success.

Jennifer plays a key role in the behind-the-scenes success at Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction. Since joining the company in 2011, she has advanced from her initial position as a Project Coordinator to her current role as Director of Corporate Administration. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, Jennifer also supports Human Resources and Accounts Receivable. Her connection with the Millard family dates back to 2001 when she worked with Mary Millard as a temporary data entry specialist at a drug and alcohol testing company. This professional relationship led Jennifer to join MDAC, prompting her to relocate from Houston to Austin with her husband Chris, and daughter Kylie. She has since become an indispensable member of the team.

My journey in the construction industry began with Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction, Inc., in July 2016, where I had the privilege of learning from industry veterans right from day one. Driven by a strong motivation to continuously improve, I am dedicated to enhancing my skills and knowledge every day. My ambition is to elevate Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction, Inc., to the top spot as the preferred drywall company in the greater Austin, Houston, and San Antonio areas. I am committed to putting in the hard work necessary to achieve this goal, both in my professional career and in my personal life.

I began my career in commercial construction in 1985 as an entry-level Estimator/Project Manager for a well-respected general contractor in Houston, Texas. I had the privilege of learning the trade from seasoned executives who were part of a highly reputable firm founded in 1955. After 18 years in the industry, Mary and I moved to Austin, where we founded Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction Inc. in 2007. I’m proud to have assembled a team of exceptional professionals to drive Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction Inc., forward. Since 2018, I have served as an Alderman for the City of Double Horn. In 2021 I was appointed as Mayor Pro Tempore for the City. In my spare time, I enjoy traveling, fly fishing and camping.

For generations, my family has made a significant impact in the construction industry, notably contributing to the development and completion of Greenway Plaza in Houston, Texas. My admiration for the industry’s enthusiasm, dedication, and outcomes has fueled my own passion for it. As the first woman-owned business in my family, I see this as a unique opportunity to excel in the construction field while ensuring a safe and productive environment for all our employees. Jim and I launched our business in 1986 with just a desk in our Humble, Texas living room. Today, thanks to the hard work of our exceptional team, we proudly serve Austin, San Antonio, and Houston. Each day presents a new chance to positively impact our community through construction.

Ramiro Rodriguez was born in Salamanca, a city in the Mexican state of Guanajuato. At the young age of 12, he began working seven days a week at a meat market, while also learning from his parents how to buy vegetables from farms and sell them in the city. This experience, deeply influenced by his parents, played a significant role in shaping who he is today. Ramiro moved to the United States at 19 in 1995. In 1998, he started working as a helper with his cousin, a commercial metal framer. Within two weeks, he developed a passion for construction by studying blueprints, and in just another two weeks, he was promoted from helper to framer. A year later, he became a subcontractor, leading his crew. In 2003, he met Jim Millard, who provided him with the opportunity and confidence to further develop his skills. Today, Ramiro Rodriguez serves as the Director of Field Operations at Millard Drywall & Acoustical Construction, Inc., where he continues to work diligently to ensure everything runs smoothly on the job site. He is married to Yazmin and has four children: Ramiro Jr., William, Paloma, and Cesar. His parents, who still reside in Mexico, visit the family in Texas every six months.