Called to Construct: How Christian Agulles Honors God Through Sustainable Design
Christian J. Agulles
President and CEO of PAE
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Website: www.pae-engineers.com
Christian J. Agulles is the President and CEO of PAE, a nationally recognized engineering firm specializing in high-performance, sustainable building systems. With more than 30 years of experience, Christian has led the design and delivery of complex projects—from iconic sports arenas and U.S. embassies to LEED Platinum corporate headquarters and net-zero carbon affordable housing.
Grounded in his Catholic faith and inspired by Stoic philosophy, Christian leads with purpose, humility, and a heart for service. Under his leadership, PAE is reversing climate change through all-electric, net-zero carbon buildings while expanding into cities like Los Angeles, Denver, New York, and Boston. A champion of equity, stewardship, and long-term impact, Christian also mentors rising leaders and advances a triple-bottom-line vision: people, planet, and profit—all under the lordship of Christ.
Climate Mission as Kingdom Work
Christian doesn’t just see buildings—he sees missions. “We are missionaries for the climate,” he shared. As an engineer and CEO, his work designing net-zero carbon buildings isn’t just technical—it’s theological. He believes deeply in God’s call to stewardship over creation, especially in protecting the poor and marginalized, who are often hit hardest by climate change.
By integrating solar energy, clean water systems, and low-carbon materials, Christian’s work testifies to a truth found in Genesis: God gave us dominion, not domination. The buildings he helps design become temples of sustainability, echoing the goodness of God’s creation.
“God gave us natural carbon sequestering technologies. It’s called forests and oceans.” – Christian J. Agulles
Jesus in the Blueprint
Christian believes in walking the talk. That’s why PAE’s own headquarters in Portland is a Living Building—a regenerative space that gives back more than it takes. Designed with mass timber and powered by clean energy, it’s a symbol of Christian’s values: efficiency, equity, and eternity.
These aren’t just professional goals—they’re Christ-led convictions. Christian sees buildings as reflections of God’s order and beauty. His leadership invites others to experience hope through design, creating spaces that honor both creation and Creator.
“I feel a tremendous responsibility to use my position to live out my faith and demonstrate the good we can do.”
Anchored in the Spirit
At the heart of Christian’s leadership is a real, personal relationship with Jesus Christ. From his upbringing in a faithful Catholic home to his present-day role as a husband, father, and CEO, Christian has continually leaned on prayer, scripture, and the Holy Spirit.
He shared two key Scriptures that anchor him:
Psalm 138: “On the day I called, You answered me.”
Isaiah 43:2: “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…”
His peace and clarity in moments of pressure come from his dependence on Christ, not his own strength. In the highs and lows of business and life, he testifies: “I never felt alone.”
Redefining Success
Success, for Christian, isn’t measured by wealth or titles—it’s measured by impact. He teaches his children and his team that legacy is not about accumulation, but about transformation.
“Did anyone talk about how much money he had? No. They talked about how he made them feel, and the type of man he was.”
Christian models a life of service—coaching sports, volunteering, and staying involved in community and faith life. He knows that the real reward isn’t in the now, but in hearing those eternal words: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
Gratitude in the Storm
Even in trials, Christian gives thanks. Amid personal family struggles, including illness and suffering, he’s grown deeper in his faith. His Saturday morning prayer, now a ritual, says it all:
“Dear Lord, I am awake. I am alive. Thank You for the week I experienced. I felt Your presence with me as You gave me assurance that I have nothing to fear.”
He’s learned to give thanks not just for blessings, but for the burdens that bring him closer to Jesus. In his own words, it’s through the crosses we carry that we discover Christ’s sustaining grace.
Building More Than Buildings
Christian J. Agulles is building far more than carbon-neutral structures—he’s building hope, character, and legacy. He’s a living witness that you don’t have to choose between faith and success. When you follow Jesus, success becomes a platform to shine His light.
“Hard work and the Holy Spirit together is a powerful force.”
And for Christian, that’s the true blueprint for a life well-lived.
Written by Jovilyn Dela Cruz
“I feel a tremendous responsibility to use my position to live out my faith and demonstrate the good that we can do.”
