About Gabriel Najera

President, Najera Consulting Group, Inc.

At Najera Consulting, we believe every organization has the power to create a ripple effect of positive change in its community—and Gabriel Najera brings this belief to life through a rare blend of experience and passion. His journey from seasonal farmworker to a national leader in strategic innovation illustrates the strength of resilience and the importance of community.

Gabriel takes a holistic approach that weaves together strategic planning and social insight. He creates spaces where nonprofits grow through empowerment, collaboration, and long-term sustainability. By applying his proven frameworks and real-world wisdom, he helps organizations sharpen their vision and amplify their mission—so their impact resonates deeply and meaningfully with the communities they serve.

Work With Gabriel

Why Partner with Gabriel Najera

Strategic Vision

Gabriel Najera provides unparalleled strategic insight, helping organizations align their missions with impactful outcomes.

Proven Expertise

With over 40 years of experience, Gabriel has a track record of guiding nonprofits to achieve sustainable growth and success.

Innovative Solutions

Gabriel’s unique frameworks empower leaders to think creatively and implement effective strategies for social change.

Collaborative Approach

Working with Gabriel means engaging in a partnership that values collaboration and shared vision to drive systemic change.

“Thanks for everything!   I also want you to know that our work with you has been the best investment I made as Executive Director of Instituto.  Thanks!”

Juan Salgado, Former Executive Director, Instituto del Progreso Latino, 2015 MacArthur Fellow

 

Grounded in Experience. Guided by Purpose

With a career spanning engineering, business, and social impact, Gabriel Najera brings a rare blend of lived experience, academic rigor, and strategic insight. His journey—from the fields of Michigan to corporate boardrooms and community-led movements—reflects a lifelong commitment to learning, leadership, and justice. The recognitions and milestones below are a testament to that path.

Education

  • MBA, Executive Program, University of Chicago
    Emphasis: General Management (1992)

  • Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering, Michigan State University
    Emphasis: Transportation (1979)

  • Leadership Development Program, Center for Creative Leadership (1995)
    Completed one of the nation’s premier executive education programs for experienced leaders

  • Studied Industrial Engineering at the University of Michigan (1972–1973)

  • Studied Mechanical Engineering at General Motors Institute (1970–1971)

Experience

  • Founder & President, Najera Consulting Group (1999–Present)
    Lead strategy, planning, and capacity-building engagements for mission-driven organizations nationwide.

  • Faculty Member, Amoco Management Learning Center (1996–1999)
    Trained and coached over 3,500 Amoco leaders in strategy, leadership, and organizational development.

  • Business Unit Manager, International, Amoco Oil (1993–1996)
    Led $50M global lubricants unit; developed business strategies and negotiated joint ventures in Russia, Mexico, Poland, and China.

  • Coordinator, Economic Evaluations, Amoco Pipeline (1993)
    Directed financial modeling and advised on pipeline investments, acquisitions, and divestments.

  • Manager, Project Engineering, Amoco Pipeline (1988–1993)
    Oversaw multimillion-dollar pipeline projects across the Southwest U.S.

  • Supervisor, Field Operations, Amoco Pipeline (1984–1988)
    Managed operations, maintenance, and performance of West Texas CO₂ pipeline system.

  • Project Engineer, Amoco Oil Company (1979–1984)
    Led design and construction of major refinery and pipeline infrastructure projects.

  • Engineering Co-op Student
    – City of Saginaw, Dept. of Public Works (1974–1979)
    – Saginaw Steering Gear, General Motors (1969–1974)

Recognition

  • Jaime Oaxaca Award, Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (1995)
    SHPE’s highest national honor, awarded for lifetime contributions to advancing Latino engineers.

  • Mission Architect, SHPE National
    Najera Consulting was invited to advise SHPE National in revising its mission statement—now the mission currently in use.

  • National Faculty Member, SHPE’s Executive Leadership Institute (2005–Present)

  • Civic Leadership Roles
    – Chair, Museum of Science & Industry Hispanic Advisory Committee
    – Member, MSU College of Engineering Alumni Board & Civil Engineering Advisory Board

  • Featured Author & Speaker
    Published thought leadership articles on strategy, negotiation, and leadership in outlets including Technica and Oil and Gas Journal

  • Former Professional Tejano Musician
    Performed with acclaimed groups, blending culture, storytelling, and art into his lifelong commitment to community engagement.

What Gabriel and the Najera Consulting Team Can Do For You and Your Organization

Strategic Planning

Training

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Meeting Facilitation

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Executive Coaching

Ready to Transform Your Impact?

Contact Najera Consulting Group today to discover how our tailored strategies can help your organization overcome challenges and accelerate your impact. Let’s work together to create meaningful change.

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