Revving Up for the Next 20: Ryan Char Uncovers the Potential of G70, a Trailblazing Automaker
Revving Up for the Next 20: Ryan Char Uncovers the Potential of G70, a Trailblazing Automaker
Quick Facts
Ryan Char is the new Chief Operating Officer at G70, a renowned architecture and design firm specializing in sustainable projects.
A Passion for Sustainable Infrastructure
Char’s portfolio showcases his expertise in designing sustainable infrastructure for schools, including projects in Hawai’i, Indonesia, and Japan. He has a special fondness for building sustainable schools, which not only reduce their environmental impact but also provide a healthy and productive learning environment for students. Some of his notable projects include the Richard Bento Campus at Hawaii Baptist Academy, the T Building at Campbell High School, and the Sinclair Library and Life Sciences building at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Lessons Learned from the Maui Fires
In 2023, Maui was ravaged by devastating fires, leaving a trail of destruction and displacement in their wake. Char and his team at G70 played a crucial role in providing a sense of normalcy to students from Lahainaluna High School by helping them attend classes at the new Kūlanihāko‘i High School campus in Kīhei. This project holds a special place in Char’s heart, as it demonstrated the impact that sustainable architecture can have on people’s lives.
Designing for Disaster Preparedness
As we face the challenges of climate change, Char believes that today’s projects must account for disaster preparation, including rising sea levels and stormwater management. “It’s not an either/or,” he emphasizes. “Projects must do what’s right for the environment and for our clients.” Char and his team at G70 are committed to incorporating disaster preparedness into their designs, ensuring that their projects not only minimize environmental impact but also provide a safe and resilient environment for future generations.
Focusing on People and the Planet
At G70, Char and his team believe that sustainable architecture is not just about meeting environmental standards but also about creating spaces that are respectful of the people and the planet. They take a holistic approach to design, considering the social, environmental, and economic impacts of their projects. By integrating with nature and respecting the community, Char and his team aim to create buildings that are not only sustainable but also beautiful and functional.
A Leadership Legacy
Char’s leadership style has inspired confidence in his colleagues and clients alike. His predecessor, Charles Kaneshiro, president of G70, praises Char’s exceptional communication skills, collaboration, and natural leadership abilities. “Ryan Char is one of the most intelligent engineers I have encountered in my 35-year career,” Kaneshiro says. “I have every confidence that he will continue to make outstanding contributions to our community.”
Giving Back to the Community
Char’s commitment to giving back to the community extends beyond his work at G70. He is a regular volunteer at the Rotary Club of Honolulu Sunrise and supports over 50 individual Rotary clubs in his position as youth service chair for Rotary in Hawaii. He also advocates for STEAM careers and volunteers at several local schools, inspiring young people to pursue careers that will guide Hawai’i’s future in sustainable ways.
A Brighter Future for Hawai’i
As we look to the future, Char’s vision for Hawai’i is one of sustainability, resilience, and community. He believes that by working together, we can create a brighter future for our islands, one that is built on a foundation of respect for the environment, the community, and future generations. As a leader in the architecture and design industry, Char is determined to make a difference and inspire others to join him on this journey.
