Published on October 3, 2024
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Raynier Diaz, a senior architecture major, is the founder of Workbench, a company that specializes in Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM uses detailed 3D models to help everyone in construction—designers, builders and engineers—work together easily. Raynier started Workbench after gaining hands-on experience in real projects, where he worked in mechanical, electrical and plumbing design all at once. His goal is to connect what’s taught in classrooms with the practical skills needed on real building projects.
What is the story of your company? How did it start?
I started Workbench after gaining experience in designing mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems. Usually, people focus on just one area, but I had the chance to work in all three. I saw that this uncommon strength made me more effective, allowing me to organize these systems together instead of separately. This way, I could streamline the process, avoiding the slow-downs that happen when each system has its own team.
Why did you want to join the Samford Startup program?
I joined the Samford Startup Program because I wanted to do more than just build my company—I wanted to learn how to lead it. Getting guidance from people who have done it before helps me understand what it takes to grow a successful business. With their support, I’m learning skills that will help Workbench go further.
How has the Samford Startup program supported your business?
The Samford Startup Program has connected me with other students who are also building their own companies. It’s a place where we can share ideas and support each other, making it easier to overcome challenges and stay motivated.
What has been the most challenging part of launching your business? How did you overcome this?
The biggest challenge has been letting people know my company exists. I brought on Jarrod, my Chief Marketing Officer from Innovation Depot, who has been a real blessing. He’s connected me with the right people and has helped me think through ideas in a practical way. Thanks to him, I can be creative while staying focused on what works.
How has the Samford Startup program helped you grow professionally?
The program has given me confidence and shown me how much Samford professors truly invest their knowledge and time in us. The students in the cohort are also incredibly supportive, sharing anything that might help others succeed—even if it doesn’t directly benefit them. We all want each other to do well.
Looking to the future, what do you envision for your business?
With the launch of Workvision, our new virtual reality (VR) tool, I see Workbench leading the way in VR for building design. Workvision lets us collaborate directly in virtual reality, with the model syncing right back to Revit. We’d like to collaborate with companies like Autodesk to make our tools even stronger, and we might even consider a partial exit if the right opportunity comes along, given how powerful Workvision is right out of the gate. Workvision is just the start—we’re ready to make big changes in VR for architecture.
How is your business redemptive in a Christ-like manner?
At Workbench, we aim to build trust by staying true to our Christian values. For us, this means delivering our products with honesty, integrity, and a commitment to doing what’s right. Our values guide us to serve others through our work, and we believe that these principles make a real difference in the quality and reliability of what we deliver.
How do you see your company having an impact on the Samford and Birmingham communities?
I see Workbench as part of Birmingham’s growth as a federally designated tech hub. The city’s tech scene is collaborative, supportive and family-friendly, and we’re excited to contribute to that energy. For Samford, I hope to stay connected and give back in the future, just like Samford has supported me in my journey.
Why would you encourage other student entrepreneurs to also join the program?
I’d encourage other student entrepreneurs to join because this program is more than just networking—it’s a community of people who want you to succeed. The mentorship, guidance and support have made a huge difference for me. If you’re serious about growing your business, the program gives you the tools and confidence to make it happen.
Learn more about Workbench:
- Instagram: @workbenchbim
- LinkedIn: Workbench
- Facebook: Workbench BIM Services
Samford is a leading Christian university offering undergraduate programs grounded in the liberal arts with an array of nationally recognized graduate and professional schools. Founded in 1841, Samford is the 87th-oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Samford enrolls 6,101 students from 45 states, Puerto Rico and 16 countries in its 10 academic schools: arts, arts and sciences, business, divinity, education, health professions, law, nursing, pharmacy and public health. Samford fields 17 athletic teams that compete in the tradition-rich Southern Conference and ranks 6th nationally for its Graduation Success Rate among all NCAA Division I schools.
