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Brick by Brick: Raul Lianez on Leadership, Legacy, and Building for Veterans

Written by Mike Kropiewnicki | Nov 21, 2025 1:59:59 PM
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Leading with purpose, delivering with precision, honoring the mission.

For Raul Lianez, service didn’t stop when he retired from the Marine Corps. It simply evolved.

Today, as the President of Construction & Facilities Management (CFM) at STEERBRIDGE, Raul leads teams that oversee the design and build of Veteran healthcare facilities—from new hospitals to critical infrastructure upgrades that support Electronic Health Record systems and patient care. It’s mission-critical work. And for Raul, it’s personal.

“For rotary wing aircrew, we have our own Marines’ lives in your hands,” he says. “Now, with construction teams, we build places with our hands where Veterans lives are made strong. It’s a continuation of service.” 

From Cockpits to Construction Sites 

Raul served 30 years in the military, starting in the Naval Academy and later commissioning into the Marine Corps upon graduation. He became a CH-46 helicopter pilot, a squadron commander, and eventually a senior installation commander responsible for hundreds of Marines and civilians.

“The Marines taught me that leadership is about adaptation and mission focus—especially when it’s hard,” he shares. “That mindset still guides my work every day.”

When he joined STEERBRIDGE as its second employee, Raul brought not only experience, but vision. He helped stand up operations, engage in key partnerships, and chart the course for what would become one of the company’s fastest-growing business units. 

The Work Behind the Walls 

Under Raul’s leadership, STEERBRIDGE’s CFM team has delivered construction and infrastructure upgrades across VA campuses nationwide. From fiber optic installs to critical infrastructure upgrades that power modern health systems, the work may not always be visible—but it’s vital.

“The doctors, nurses and caregivers are visible every day,” Raul explains. “But two years before EHR goes live, someone has to dig into the ground and pour the foundations of a digital backbone. That’s where our team comes in.”

Raul emphasizes that the architects, engineers, and construction managers at STEERBRIDGE don’t just build buildings. They build trust and capability. 

Mission, Mental Health, and Meaningful Work 

Raul speaks candidly about his own journey with staying mentally and physically ready after service and the importance of meaningful work in post-military life.

“Having a job with real everyday purpose—is one of the most powerful enablers of mental and physical health strength for Veterans,” he says.

He believes STEERBRIDGE, offers an ideal opportunity for Veterans where they can channel their experience and will to win into meaningful results-driven business.

The Culture That Keeps Giving 

“This place reminds me of the best parts of the Marines,” Raul says. “Mission-first. People-focused. Small team, big goals.”

He takes pride in helping grow a culture where leadership is unwaivering, where discomfort is embraced, and where everyone contributes to something larger than themselves.

His advice to young professionals?

“Know yourself today. That’s enough. Make the decision to show up and lead.”

 

Interested in partnering or joining our CFM team?

Join the Team: https://www.steerbridge.com/join-the-team

Partnership: https://www.steerbridge.com/contactus