At all of our hospitality concepts, we strive to find, employ, and support people who share our passion for experiences and dedication to service. Efrain Gonzalez, our Maintenance Lead at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema in El Paso, Texas, stands as a stalwart figure, shaping experiences at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema and beyond.
From the moment you meet him, he leaves a positive impression on you. His genuine nature, calming energy, and problem-solving intelligence radiate all around him. That is why we were thrilled to pick him as the latest recipient of our Triple Tap Ventures Employee Spotlight award.
A Hospitality Career Spanning Decades
Efrain’s impressive 39-year career began long before his tenure at Alamo Drafthouse. From the hallways of Holiday Inn to the bustling kitchens of Johnny Carino’s, Applebee’s, and Chili’s, he has left his mark on various hospitality landmarks. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish his own janitorial business, Efrain’s Janitorial, until the pandemic necessitated a shift in his path. Though his business was no longer viable, a new opportunity came in the form of a position at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.
Finding a Home at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
While Efrain’s Janitorial was operational, he held a contract with the Alamo Drafthouse Montecillo location in El Paso, Texas. When he spoke to us about his business being unable to continue, we knew we couldn’t run without him. We offered him a permanent position as Lead Maintenance. His eight-year tenure at Alamo Drafthouse is a testament to the bonds forged within our theater’s walls. Long before he held his full-time position with us, Efrain was a part of our movie-loving community. He has kept our theater in pristine condition for our team and guests for nearly a decade, and we will be so lucky to have him at the helm for many more years to come!
Balancing Passion and Purpose
Outside the confines of work, Efrain’s life is a delicate balance of passion and purpose. He finds self-care and invigoration in both the intensity of kickboxing and the challenge of an Insanity workout. He is determined to stay fit and healthy so he can continue to keep up with his growing gaggle of grandchildren. He loves to take walks with them and play out on the soccer field. He’ll be the first to tell you that every accomplishment in his life has been to support his three sons and now their children.
But in the quiet moments between all the hustle and bustle, Efrain cherishes his wife’s company, finding solace in their ability to rest together. Whether unwinding in front of the television or simply enjoying each other’s company, these moments of serenity are the anchor in his life.
A Reflection of Resilience: Embracing the De Niro Spirit
Since we are film fanatics around here, we once asked Efrain what actor he resonated with the most. He quickly chose a renowned Hollywood icon—Robert De Niro. Like the legendary actor, Efrain approaches life with determination, always striving to achieve his goals and overcome obstacles with grace and humor. It’s this resilience that defines his character both in and out of the workplace.
Efrain’s Alamo Drafthouse Menu Favorites
After so long with us, we wondered if Efrain still cared for our menu and we were pleased to find out he’s still a fan! Efrain’s culinary preferences reflect his hearty appetite and appreciation for quality fare. If he could choose only three items from the Alamo Drafthouse menu for eternity, he’d opt for our superb Philly Cheesesteak, the satisfying Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders, and the guilt-free indulgence of our Gluten-Free Cauliflower Pizza.
The Heart of Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is its People
In Efrain Gonzalez, we find more than just a Lead Maintenance at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema; we find the embodiment of dedication, the warmth of a welcoming spirit, and the resilience of the human soul. His journey serves as a reminder that in the tapestry of life, it’s the threads of connection and shared experiences that truly define our path.