Rhaoul A. Guillaume, Sr., is an innovative civil engineer, entrepreneur, and dedicated community leader whose career spans over five decades. From helping build the Louisiana Superdome to founding GOTECH, Inc. and bringing forth Pointe Marie Development, his work has left a lasting impact on many of Louisiana’s landmark buildings, bridges, and infrastructure. Beyond engineering, his commitment to faith, mentorship, philanthropy, and community development ensures that his legacy is not just one of buildings but of empowering future generations.
Top row from left Rhaoul Alfred Jr and Warmoth
Sitting Cynthia Alfred and Anna Trena Guillaume and Teresita
Engineers are often seen as practical and methodical, rarely associated with flair or style. Yet, Rhaoul A. Guillaume, Sr. defies that stereotype. A man of substance and elegance, he exudes confidence, charisma, and a deep sense of purpose. Tall and imposing yet warm and engaging, his presence reflects the depth of his experience and achievements in civil engineering.
As the Founder and President of GOTECH, a professional consulting and engineering firm based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Guillaume is widely recognized for his work on landmark projects, including his role in building the Louisiana Superdome. Throughout his 54-year career, he has shaped Louisiana’s infrastructure, beautifying the landscape while improving the quality of life for its residents.
Right Rhaouls mother Anna Trena
Rhaoul A. Guillaume – Roots and Upbringing
Born in New Orleans as the second of five children to Alfred and Anna Trena Guillaume, Rhaoul Guillaume’s upbringing was deeply influenced by city and country life. Though raised in an urban environment, he spent summers on his grandparents’ land in New Roads, immersed in the rhythms of rural Louisiana. These experiences instilled in him a profound appreciation for land, heritage, and hard work.
“I loved being out there with the chickens, the horses, the cows, and feeding the pigs. The land was beautiful, fields stretching as far as you could see, dotted with pecan trees and vegetable gardens bursting with fresh produce. There was always the sweet scent of magnolias in the air, and I remember the stillness of the mornings, the sound of roosters crowing, and the rich, earthy smell of the soil. It was a place of peace, abundance, and simple pleasures. That setting stayed with me. It was where I first understood the value of the land and its power to provide and sustain.”
His great-grandmother, a pure-blooded Native American from Killona, Louisiana, nurtured his love for Creole heritage, while his grandfather imparted lessons about the enduring value of land. “If you invest in land, you will not go wrong,” his grandfather, Joseph Saizon, often said. That wisdom shaped Guillaume’s long-term perspective, guiding his personal and professional choices.
Growing up surrounded by vegetable gardens, farmland, and the vast Mississippi River, he learned early that land and the Mighty Mississippi River were not only a means of sustenance but also a foundation for long-term growth and investment. His early exposure to nature and the values of self-sufficiency would later influence his career as a builder and engineer. Guillaume was instrumental in building the bridge that now crosses the Mississippi River near New Roads, his original stomping grounds!
“I remember growing up in New Roads and seeing the Mississippi River. The land was always there, always solid. I feel like it was meant for me to carry on this legacy of working with the land, of using what we have to build something that lasts.”
This connection to his heritage and land would continue to influence his career choices and shape his approach to life. In contrast to short-term thinking, it gave him a long-term perspective on projects and how they could positively impact future generations.
Right Marquette Graduation day with parents May 1971
Education: The Foundation of Success
Education was paramount in the Guillaume household. Despite modest means, his parents prioritized schooling for their children, instilling in them the belief that education was the key to success and social mobility.
“Our parents always instilled in us the value of education,” Guillaume recalls. “They sacrificed to make sure we all got a good education.”
His mother, an elementary school and music teacher, and his father, a postal worker, worked tirelessly, his father even took on multiple jobs, to ensure their children’s academic success. Their dedication paid off: all five children graduated from college, an achievement that filled the family with immense pride.
“With their salaries back then, raising kids and paying for school was difficult. So, my dad worked a second job, sometimes a third, to support us and ensure we all got an education,” he says. “That was something they always stressed: ‘Whatever you do, just make sure you get your education.’ Because they believed that education would help improve your life and present many opportunities.”
Early Schooling
Guillaume’s academic journey began at St. Raymond Catholic School, where he was taught by two of his aunts, Miriam Guillaume and Theresa Norwood. Their guidance and discipline laid a strong foundation for his intellectual growth and shaped his early love for learning.
He later attended St. Augustine High School, a prestigious all-boys Catholic school in New Orleans known for its rigorous academic programs, sports program, and outstanding marching and concert band. “St. Augustine was the top school for kids in the area then. We got the cream of the crop back then,” he recalls.
While in the marching band, he played clarinet and played contra-bass clarinet in the concert band. Guillaume was among the few privileged members selected to serve as “captain” during his senior year.
At St. Augustine, Guillaume developed a love for mathematics and problem-solving, talents that would later steer him toward engineering. He was drawn to structured thinking, calculations, and the satisfaction of solving complex problems. His teachers and mentors recognised his talent and encouraged him to pursue a technical field.
Right Rhaoul Guillaume at Marquette
Choosing Engineering
Guillaume credits his mother with guiding him toward a career in engineering.
“She saw that I loved puzzles and was intrigued by bridges,” he says. “I loved math. So, she was the one who encouraged me to be an engineer. I didn’t even know what an engineer was at the time! But I started learning about it, and when I realized it was math and problem-solving, I was hooked.”
This encouragement pushed him to pursue higher education, focusing on engineering, setting him on a path to remarkable achievements.
Xavier University and Marquette University
Guillaume enrolled at Xavier University of Louisiana, the nation’s only historically Black Catholic university, known for its emphasis on science, mathematics, and preparing students for leadership roles in their professions and communities.
He entered Xavier’s pre-engineering program, a rigorous course of study designed to prepare students for further specialization in engineering.
“At the time, Xavier” he explains. “If you were in New Orleans and you were Catholic, it was kind of a tradition that you pursued your higher education there. Xavier had a pre-engineering program, and I liked that.”
Xavier had students from all over the country attend, seeking their career roles in life. He had the honor of serving as class “Treasurer” in his freshman and sophomore years! “I enjoyed the social life (dances and parties) and made great friendships as part of “winning” intramural football, basketball, and softball teams. “ He also was chosen as quarterback for Xavier’s flag football team in a rivalry “homecoming game” against Dillard University. Over the three years he was there, he also participated in the Catholic organization “Legion of Mary”, was on the yearbook staff, and participated in the famous opera play “Carmen”.
His work included internships (summer jobs while in college) in the engineering and surveying industries in Idaho, Wyoming, and California.
After three years at Xavier, Guillaume transferred to Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering in 1971.
“I had the opportunity after three years to continue my engineering degree from another college where they recognized the curriculum from Xavier,” he says. “They accepted that you’ll spend two more years at another university for just engineering courses. Therefore, when I graduated, I got My engineering degree from Marquette and my B.A. mathematics degree from Xavier.”
This unique arrangement allowed him to graduate with two degrees in one year—a rare and impressive accomplishment that set him apart from many of his peers.
In 2009, Marquette University honored Rhaoul Guillaume as its Alumnus of the Year. He returned to the campus with a team from his firm, GOTECH, INC., to share insights into the company’s pivotal work during the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Inspired by his award acceptance speech, a large group of Marquette engineering students volunteered to travel to New Orleans over spring break to help rebuild homes for those impacted by the storms. GOTECH hosted a celebratory feast, prepared and served by the GOTECH team, to recognize and thank the students for their generosity. It was a powerful demonstration of how service and inspiration can come full circle, empowering the next generation to make a difference.
Right Wedding Groomsmen with Louis Castenell Sr left and Winston DeCuir Sr center April 2025
Fraternity Life and Engineering Network
While at Marquette University, Guillaume joined Sigma Phi Delta, a professional and social engineering fraternity that played a crucial role in his professional development. The fraternity provided him with valuable connections and instilled a sense of responsibility, ethics, and teamwork—qualities shaping his approach to engineering and leadership. Guillaume remains in touch with many fraternity brothers who meet annually for golf adventures.
His fraternity gave him access to a national network of engineers and industry professionals. He also worked as an intern for the Wisconsin Highway Department, gaining hands-on experience in large-scale infrastructure projects.
While in the fraternity, he served as “Secretary” his senior year and was awarded the fraternity’s “Athlete of the Year” recognition. During his years there, he helped guide the multi-year intramural fraternity league championships in football, softball, and bowling. Because of this, he was awarded the “Jess Collins” trophy for the MVP among all the fraternities.
Also, he received a partial scholarship from the American Society of Civil Engineers to assist with tuition payments.
He was a member of Chi Epsilon (National Civil Engineering Honor Society), Phi Mu Epsilon (National Mathematics Honor Society), and Sigma Phi Delta (National Professional Engineering Service Fraternity). In his senior year, he received “The Marquette Engineer” award.
“We also did a lot of work for non-profit organizations,” he recalls. “You see another side of the world sometimes when you go into the cities, and you see how deprived people are and their hardships. That touched me—how important it is to give back and help others.”
Right Fishing with Sidney John Barthelemy former mayor of New Orleans
A Commitment to Lifelong Learning
Even after completing his formal education, Guillaume remained committed to continuous learning. He sought professional development opportunities throughout his career, staying ahead of advancements in civil engineering and infrastructure technology.
“My philosophy has always been that learning never stops,” he explains. “Even after you graduate, you must keep learning, evolving, and pushing yourself to stay relevant in your field.”
This belief in lifelong education has also influenced his leadership at GOTECH, where he has always encouraged his employees to seek further education and professional training.
Right Honoré Family with In Laws with Betty Honoré
The Foundation for a Brilliant Career
Guillaume’s education gave him more than technical knowledge, it shaped his character, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. His experiences at St. Raymond Catholic School, St. Augustine High School, Xavier University, and Marquette University gave him the skills and confidence to become a pioneering figure in civil engineering.
Looking back on his journey, he remains profoundly grateful for his parents’ sacrifices and the opportunities his education provided.
“Education is everything,” he says. “It’s the foundation for success. Without it, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Building the Louisiana Superdome
One of the defining moments of Rhaoul Guillaume’s career was his involvement in constructing the Louisiana Superdome. This project would become one of the most iconic structures in the United States. As one of the engineers selected to represent the Dome Commission to work on this ambitious undertaking, Guillaume found himself at the forefront of one of Louisiana’s largest and most complex engineering projects.
The Louisiana Superdome, now known as the Caesars Superdome, was envisioned as a multipurpose stadium hosting professional football, concerts, conventions, and large-scale sporting events. The concept of a domed stadium in a hurricane-prone region presented significant engineering challenges, requiring innovative solutions in design, materials, and construction techniques.
“I was one of the youngest engineers on the project, and I knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Guillaume recalls. “Working on something that would define the skyline of New Orleans and serve as a landmark for generations was an incredible responsibility and privilege.”
Engineering Challenges and Solutions
The construction of the Superdome involved several significant engineering hurdles:
- Structural Integrity: The dome had to withstand high winds and extreme weather conditions, including hurricanes.
- Massive Scale: When it was constructed, the Superdome was the largest fixed-dome stadium in the world, with a diameter of 680 feet and a height of 273 feet.
- Foundation and Stability: The stadium was built on soft Louisiana soil, requiring deep pilings and extensive foundational work to ensure long-term stability.
- Acoustics and Design: The dome’s design had to account for sound management, ensuring that crowd noise did not become overwhelming while maintaining an immersive atmosphere.
Guillaume collaborated closely with engineers, architects, and construction specialists to engineer innovative solutions. Deep pilings were driven into the ground to stabilize the foundation, and the dome’s steel framework was meticulously planned to ensure it could support the enormous weight of the roof.
“The scale of the project was massive, but we had a brilliant team,” he says. “Every part of the Superdome’s construction required careful planning, precision, and coordination between different teams.”
A Landmark Achievement
After several years of meticulous construction, the Louisiana Superdome officially opened on August 3, 1975. It quickly became a cultural and economic centrepiece for New Orleans, hosting events such as Super Bowls, concerts, and political gatherings. The stadium also played a critical role in providing shelter for thousands of residents during Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Reflecting on his contributions to the Superdome, Guillaume says, “Seeing the Superdome completed and knowing that I had a part in it—it’s one of the proudest achievements of my career. It’s more than just a stadium; it’s a symbol of resilience and community for Louisiana.”
The Superdome of New Orleans celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and was host to the 2025 Super Bowl!
Expanding His Portfolio: Other Major Projects
Following the Superdome’s success, Guillaume’s career flourished. His reputation as a skilled civil engineer and problem-solver led to his involvement in numerous high-profile projects across Louisiana and beyond.
As a project engineer for a large local construction company, some of the significant projects he contributed to include:
- Hunt Correctional Facility is a significant prison complex in St. Gabriel, Louisiana.
- Chevron Plaza is a 21-story building in downtown New Orleans.
Founding of GOTECH
After gaining extensive experience working on significant projects like the Louisiana Superdome, Chevron Plaza, and Hunt Correctional Facility, Rhaoul Guillaume, Sr., boldly decided to step into entrepreneurship. in 1981, he co-founded GOTECH, a professional consulting engineering firm based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His vision was to create a company that delivered high-quality engineering solutions and established opportunities for his minority-owned business to grow.
GOTECH, short for Guillaume and Odom Technology, was originally a partnership between Guillaume and fellow engineer Harold Odom. Their shared goal was to create an innovative firm that could compete with larger, more established engineering firms in Louisiana.
This business relationship was made possible through the support of Rhaoul’s father-in-law, Harvey Honoré Sr., a man Rhaoul deeply admired. He remembers Mr. Honoré as a person of unwavering integrity whose word was as solid as any written contract. His passion for quality in all things was matched by his dedication to community service and leadership in the business world. His example left a lasting impression on Rhaoul, both personally and professionally.
Guillaume recalls the early days with great pride: “We knew we had the technical expertise, but we needed to prove ourselves in a competitive industry. We started GOTECH with a strong belief in our ability to deliver projects that could make a difference in our community.”
Guillaume eventually bought out his business partner as the firm grew and assumed full ownership of GOTECH. This allowed him to steer the company’s direction, ensuring it remained committed to excellence, integrity, and community-driven projects.
Overcoming Challenges and Establishing a Reputation
The early years of GOTECH were not without challenges. Securing contracts as a new, minority-owned firm was an uphill battle, as many large projects were awarded to well-established engineering firms.
“We had to work twice as hard to prove ourselves,” says Guillaume. “Getting our foot in the door was the hardest part. The momentum started building once we secured our first few contracts and delivered excellent results.”
A significant turning point came when Guillaume’s close friend, Sidney Barthelemy, was elected Mayor of New Orleans. Recognizing the importance of supporting small and minority businesses, the new administration tried to diversify the city’s engineering and infrastructure projects.
“He kept his word and ensured that minority businesses got a chance,” Guillaume explains. “With his help, we were awarded our first major city contract, which helped establish our credibility.”
Once GOTECH was recognized as capable of handling large-scale projects, opportunities began to flow in. The company built strong relationships with larger national and local engineering firms and often worked as a subcontractor on significant projects, further cementing its reputation for excellence.
Right With Governor Kathleen Marie Blanco
Hurricane Katrina: A Turning Point for GOTECH
Ironically, Hurricane Katrina in 2005 helped solidify GOTECH’s success. The catastrophic storm devastated Louisiana’s infrastructure, leading to a massive demand for engineering and disaster recovery services.
“Everything shut down after Katrina, but in that devastation, there was also an opportunity to help rebuild our city,” Guillaume recalls.
GOTECH played a crucial role in the disaster recovery and rebuilding efforts, winning several contracts to help assess and restore critical infrastructure.
“I couldn’t believe it when we got a debris monitor disaster recovery project from the Corps of Engineers”, he says. “More contracts started coming in for roads, schools, and community buildings.” Recognizing the need for stronger transportation networks, Guillaume also worked on several bridge and highway projects to improve Louisiana’s road infrastructure. Notably, he inspected the hurricane disaster twin-span bridge replacement project after Hurricane Katrina, ensuring safer and more resilient connectivity for residents.
One of the most significant projects post-Katrina was GOTECH’s involvement in the School Recovery Program, which involved rebuilding public schools in New Orleans. This marked a shift in the company’s focus towards program management, where they oversaw large-scale reconstruction efforts to restore essential infrastructure.
These projects were awarded to GOTECH, and in February 2006, the company celebrated its 25th anniversary. As someone who values milestones and community, Rhaoul Guillaume had been planning a grand celebration, inviting family, employees and their families, clients, and vendors. However, Entergy used the hotel booked for the event to restore electricity across the South following a major hurricane. He paused to reflect: should he continue with the celebration during a time when many were still without homes, or postpone the event out of respect? After thoughtful consideration, he chose to move forward, hosting a marvelous and uplifting gathering that was warmly received. Guided by his faith, he believes sometimes it is healing and necessary to rejoice, even amid adversity.
Expansion and Diversification
With a strong foothold in Louisiana’s engineering sector, GOTECH expanded its services to include:
- Construction Engineering and Inspection – Providing field oversight during construction to ensure high-quality execution of large-scale projects.
- Civil / Engineering – Designing highways, roadways, drainage, sewer, and municipal site infrastructures.
- Program Management – Overseeing the planning and execution of design and construction projects.
- Professional Surveying – Topographic, hydrographic, and right-of-way surveys.
Guillaume also strategically decided to diversify the company’s client base, securing contracts with state agencies, private developers, and large corporations. This allowed GOTECH to remain resilient even during economic downturns.
Mr. Guillaume, as Principal and Chief Officer, supervises all activities of the corporation, which includes the responsibility of corporate management of all contract requirements. His experience includes client liaison, contract negotiations and administration, project budget, workforce assignments and overall project quality control. He is directly involved with the firm’s day-to-day and long-range operations. He prefers the hands-on approach to management. This is possible because of the family-like, yet professional, atmosphere at GOTECH.
One of Mr. Guillaume’s many attributes is his disposition, which permits him to be at ease with differing personalities while maintaining strict professional engineering policies and procedures.
Under Mr Guillaume’s skilfull guidance, GOTECH has established a strong base and root system. Each employee is highly regarded and treated as an indispensable family member, comprised of highly qualified professionals and technical people. Each of these “family members” plays a vital role. Praise and individual recognition are potent tools in Mr. Guillaume’s repertoire.
GOTECH’s Iconic Projects
- Audubon Aquarium of the Americas – New Orleans, LA
- St. Charles Streetcar Revitalization and Line Improvements Project – New Orleans, LA
- John James Audubon Bridge – St. Francisville, LA
- Lamar Dixon Expo Center – Gonzales, LA
- I-10 Twin Span Bridge Recovery Project – Slidell, LA
- New Orleans Sewerage and Water Board Sewer System and Evaluation & Rehabilitation Program (SSERP)
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport Program Managers (PAL)
- Quality Assurance & Inspection Services For Debris Removal Monitoring Following Hurricane Katrina & Rita – US Army Corps of Engineers – New Orleans, LA
- New Orleans Recovery School District Program
- (LCTCS) LA Community & Technical College System for Multiple Projects Program
- I-12 Widening – Denham Springs, LA
- Program Management Services for Transportation & Street Improvement Programs “Green Light Plan” & “MOVEBR”
- Program Management at Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport
- Pointe-Marie: A New Village – Baton Rouge, LA
- I-10 / Loyola Interchange Improvements – Kenner, LA
- I-10 & I-12 College Dr Flyover Ramp – Baton Rouge, LA
- Mississippi River Bridge South Project – Baton Rouge,
- LSU University Lakes System Project – Baton Rouge, LA
- Calcasieu River Bridge – Lake Charles, LA
Commitment to Community and Mentorship
Beyond business success, Guillaume has always emphasized giving back to the community. GOTECH has mentored young engineers, provided scholarships to aspiring STEM students, and participated in local workforce development initiatives to train the next generation of engineers.
“We’ve always believed in lifting others as we climb,” he says. “When I was starting, I had mentors who guided me. We must continue that cycle by helping young professionals get opportunities in this field.”
Family
Rhaoul A. Guillaume, Sr., is the second of five children born to Alfred and Anna Trena Saizon Guillaume. His siblings are Alfred Jr., Cynthia, Teresita, and Warmoth.
He has been married to Geretta Honore Guillaume for over 52 years. Together, they have four children, Rhaoul Jr., Randy, Jenee and Jaime, twelve grandchildren, William (14), Aiden (13), Henry (10), Christian (8), James (8), Suzanne (8), Patrick (7), Anna (6), Jules (4), Brooks (4), Anthony (2), Bennett (2) and two angels, Noah and Gabriel.
Looking to the Future
With over four decades of success, GOTECH is firmly established as a leading engineering firm in Louisiana. As Guillaume looks ahead, he is actively working on transitioning the company’s leadership to the next generation.
“Ideally, I want my sons to take over the business,” he says. “GOTECH is more than just a company—it’s a legacy. We built something that provided jobs and contributed to rebuilding and shaping Louisiana.”
With a strong foundation, a history of resilience, and a deep commitment to excellence, GOTECH continues to thrive, carrying forward Guillaume’s vision of building a better future through engineering.
Pointe Marie – A Dream Takes Shape
Among Rhaoul Guillaume’s many achievements, perhaps none is more personally significant than Pointe Marie, a lifelong passion project that embodies his vision of community, culture, and sustainable development. Pointe Marie is a deeply personal endeavour, unlike his previous infrastructure projects, which primarily focused on large-scale engineering solutions. He is developing it alongside his sons to create a new Louisiana living model.
Pointe Marie, a 120-acre mixed-use development in Baton Rouge, is designed to be more than just a residential community—it is an experience-driven development that blends historic Creole charm with modern amenities. Inspired by Seaside, Florida, a well-known example of intentional urban planning, Guillaume sought to create a development that reflected Louisiana’s heritage while integrating contemporary comforts.
“We didn’t just want to build houses,” Guillaume explains. “We wanted to create a real community where people could come together, celebrate their culture, and feel a true sense of belonging.”
The Inspiration Behind Pointe Marie
Growing up in Louisiana, Guillaume was surrounded by a mix of Creole, Cajun, and French influences that shaped his understanding of community life. He saw how traditional towns fostered strong connections among residents and wanted to bring those elements into the modern era.
“Louisiana has such a rich architectural and cultural history,” he says. “Too often, modern developments strip away that identity. With Pointe Marie, we wanted to preserve it—through design, experience, and how people interact.”
The development embraces walkability, green spaces, and communal areas, ensuring that residents are not isolated but part of an interconnected environment. The design incorporates French-Creole-style homes, boutique businesses, art galleries, community centres, and lively gathering spaces, making Pointe Marie a truly unique development in the region.
The Role of His Sons in the Project
Pointe Marie is a family endeavour that Rhaoul Guillaume, Sr. is developing alongside his sons, Rhaoul Jr. and Randy. Rhaoul Jr. plays a pivotal role in the project’s design, bringing innovative ideas to the community’s layout and aesthetics. Randy focuses on the management and development facets, ensuring that the project’s execution aligns with the family’s vision.
Their combined efforts ensure that Pointe Marie continues to evolve, integrating new ideas while preserving Louisiana’s cultural heritage. “This project is as much about family as it is about community,” Guillaume says. “My sons have been heavily involved, which means the world to me. It’s something that will last beyond my lifetime.”
Challenges and Triumphs
The road to developing Pointe Marie has not been without its challenges. Fluctuations in the real estate market, zoning regulations, and economic downturns presented hurdles that must be carefully navigated.
“There were times when we questioned whether we could keep moving forward,” Guillaume admits. “But we believed in the project and knew we were creating something special.”
Despite these challenges, the first phase of the development, including residential lots, commercial spaces, and the community center, was completed. Pointe Marie quickly attracted interest from families, business owners, and cultural enthusiasts looking for a unique place to live and work.
As the project expands, Guillaume remains committed to maintaining its integrity. “It’s not about rushing to build more homes or fill more commercial spaces, it’s about creating a lasting impact,” he emphasises.
That vision is becoming a reality with his sons actively managing and expanding the community.
More Than Just a Development: A Legacy
Pointe Marie stands as a testament to Rhaoul Guillaume’s belief that engineering and development should serve a higher purpose—one that brings people together, preserves culture, and creates sustainable communities. The project embodies his lifelong values: vision, persistence, integrity, and love for Louisiana.
“For me, Pointe Marie is not just about buildings. It’s about people,” Guillaume reflects. “It’s about creating something meaningful that will stand the test of time.”
Through Pointe Marie, Guillaume’s legacy is set as a brilliant engineer and a visionary who understood the profound impact of community, culture, and connection.
A Life Built on Vision and Purpose
As Rhaoul Guillaume, Sr. reflects on his illustrious career spanning over five decades, he does not measure his success merely in completed projects or accolades. Instead, he defines success by his impact on others—his family, his employees, his community, and the young engineers he has mentored along the way.
“For me, true success isn’t just about how much money you make or how many buildings you put up,” Guillaume explains. “It’s about how you treat people, how you inspire others, and what you leave behind for the next generation.”
Another true mark of success is the ability to enjoy life. For Rhaoul, that means spending time with family and friends, embracing service, celebrating Christmas, enjoying music, golf, hunting, and staying deeply rooted in faith. He chooses to fill his days with these joys, and in doing so, he continues to live generously in every way.
Accolades
- 2001 – Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) (8A) Graduate of the Year Award
- 2001 – Baton Rouge Good Growth Coalition Award
- 2001 – Small Business Administration’s (SBA’s) (8A) Graduate of the Year Award
- 2002 – SBA’s Special Achievements Award
- 2002-2003 Corporate Award – The Louisiana Airport Managers and Associates (LAMA)
- 2003 – EPA’s Administrator’s Award for Outstanding Accomplishments by an MBE Enterprise
- 2011 – Louisiana MSDC Gateway (Bronze)
- 2013 – Baton Rouge Business Report’s Company of the Year Award (Under 100 Employees)
- 2021 – The Morial Award Finalist
A Legacy in Engineering and Infrastructure
Guillaume’s impact on Louisiana’s infrastructure is undeniable. His projects have left a tangible mark on the state’s landscape, from his work on the Louisiana Superdome to his contributions to transportation networks, public schools, and disaster recovery.
His engineering firm, GOTECH, is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence, diversity, and opportunity in a historically challenging field for minority business owners. Under his leadership, GOTECH has grown into a respected firm and paved the way for other small and minority-owned engineering businesses to thrive.
Beyond engineering, his lifelong commitment to mentoring young engineers has ensured that his knowledge and values will continue to shape future generations of professionals. “It’s important to pass the torch,” he says. “I was given opportunities, and now it’s my job to ensure others have them, too.”
Middle 2013 Baton Rouge Business Reports Company of the Year Award Under 100 Employees
Right 2003 EPAs Administrators Award for Outstanding Accomplishments by an MBE Enterprise
Commitment to Giving Back
Guillaume’s legacy is also rooted in his commitment to philanthropy and community service. Over the years, he has served on church boards, Rotary Club committees, educational advisory panels, and civic organizations that work to uplift underprivileged communities.
“I’ve been blessed in many ways,” he acknowledges. “And I believe when you’ve been blessed, you have a responsibility to bless others.”
Guillaume has ensured his success extends beyond himself to benefit countless others through scholarships, mentorship programs, and workforce development initiatives.
Major Accomplishments:
- ASCE – Wall of Fame Award (2023)
- American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Louisiana Section Lifetime Achievement Award (2016)
- Louisiana Engineering Society, Andrew M. Lockett State Award for civic activities (2011)
- Louisiana Engineering Society, Baton Rouge Chapter, Andrew M. Lockett Award for distinguished civic service by an engineer (2008, 2009 and 2011)
- Louisiana Professional Engineering & Land Surveying Board (2004 – 2011)
- Duke of Karnival Krewe de Louisiane supporting cancer education and research (2011)
- Marquette Alumni Recognition (2009)
Board Memberships:
- Baton Rouge Community College Foundation (2014-2017)
- Pennington Biomedical Annual Foundation for Excellence Campaign (2013-2018)
- First Horizon Bank Advisory Board (2015-present)
- Hancock Whitney Advisory Board (2013-2016)
- Baton Rouge City Club Board (2016-present) (President 2020)
- Baton Rouge Rotary Club Board (2024 – Present) (Paul Harris Fellow)
Professional Present Memberships:
- American Society of Civil Engineers (Fellow Member and Life Member)
- American Consulting Engineers Council of Louisiana
- Louisiana Engineering Society
- Louisiana Society of Professional Engineers
- Mississippi Society of Professional Engineers
- National Society of Professional Engineers
- Society of American Military Engineers
Community Involvements:
- St. Jude Catholic Church:
- Parish Finance Committee, Eucharistic Minister, Knights of Columbus, Long Range Planning Committee Chairman, Building Committee Chairman, Ad-Hoc School Board Member, Parish Advisory Council, Parish Council President (1985–1986), and Trustee of the Parish
- Baton Rouge Rotary Club
- Kiwanis Club
- Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem
- Manresa Retreat (Group Co-Captain)
- Serra Club
- Baton Rouge Chamber of Commerce Transportation Committee
- Kenilworth Subdivision Civic Association President (1986)
- The United Way Agency Committee
- Woodgate Subdivision Civic Association President (1997-1998)
- St. Aloysius Catholic School: Planning and Development Committee Chairman
- St. Joseph’s Academy: Facility Planning Committee Chairman – School Board Member-Dad’s Club Officer
- St. Vincent De Paul – Bishop Stanley J. Ott Shelter Expansion Campaign
“For me, true success isn’t just about how much money you make or how many buildings you put up. It’s about how you treat people, how you inspire others, and what you leave behind for the next generation.”
Reflections: The Core Lessons of His Life
When asked what lessons he hopes people will take from his journey, Guillaume does not hesitate:
“Have faith in yourself.” – “Believe that you are capable of great things. Don’t let fear stop you from taking risks and pursuing your dreams.”
“Treat people with respect.” – “Success isn’t just about how much you achieve—it’s about how you lift others along the way.”
“Work hard and work honestly.” – “If you do the right thing and put in the effort, rewards will come. Maybe not always in the way you expect, but they will come.”
“Do it right the first time.” This philosophy and ethic is much more efficient and provides a more harmonious outcome.
A Legacy That Lives On
Guillaume’s journey, from a young boy fascinated by puzzles to an innovative civil engineer, entrepreneur, and dedicated community leader, is one of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith. His story inspires engineers and anyone who believes in the power of perseverance and purpose.
Looking toward the future, he remains committed to ensuring that his legacy is more than just one of buildings and business success, a legacy of integrity, vision, and the enduring power of giving back.
“I want to be remembered not just for what I built,” Guillaume says with a smile, “but for how I made people feel, inspired them to dream bigger, and helped make the world a little better.”
A Heart of Gratitude and Faith
Rhaoul considers himself a blessed and fortunate man. Gentle and soft-spoken, he often shares the wisdom that has shaped him through life stories and examples. He strives to see, affirm, and uplift what is good and right in the world around him. Gifted with strength that flows from a gentle spirit, his heart is always attuned to listen carefully, and respond with kindness and love.
At the core of his life is a profound spirituality. A devout Catholic, his unwavering faith gives him confidence that the Lord is walking with him every step of the way.
Beyond his professional achievements, he treasures the simple joys of life —cherishing time spent with family and friends, savoring the warmth of Christmas celebrations, enjoying music, golfing with old fraternity brothers, and partaking in the peace of hunting trips in the Louisiana outdoors. For Rhaoul, these moments are as important as any accolade. They remind him that success is not measured in buildings or titles, but in the love, laughter, and bonds we nurture along the journey.
“I am thankful for all the blessings God has bestowed on me,” he says. “I am grateful for my life, my family, my friends, and all those who have helped make me the person I am today.”
In the legacy of bridges, communities, and dreams built with care, Rhaoul Guillaume’s greatest masterpiece remains a life lived with faith, family, service, and love.
