Gadiel Montiel

Class of 2025-2026

Bethel University, 2025
Marketing

Capstone Abstract: 

Riverhawk Industrial Supply is a long standing and trusted player in the industrial supply industry, supporting a wide range of customers across construction, industrial maintenance, power generation, and mining.

The student’s capstone project focuses on designing and implementing AI driven solutions to modernize Riverhawk’s operations. This work includes identifying and assessing AI use cases, conducting system and process analysis, and determining which use cases are feasible for implementation. The student is excited about this project because it provides the opportunity to work directly with a real company, solve real operational challenges, and apply both technical and business skills to create solutions with immediate and measurable impact.

Why do you choose ESTEEM?

I joined ESTEEM because I wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone while still building on the things I am already passionate about, like innovation, problem solving, and creating new ideas. My background has mostly been rooted in technical and hands on learning, but I always felt like I was missing the business side of how ideas actually turn into real world solutions. Through ESTEEM, I hoped to gain those skills and learn how to think more like an entrepreneur.

What do you hope to do after ESTEEM?

After ESTEEM I wish to move to Chicago! I would love to be working on my own startup in downtown Chicago. If not, I want to become a spokesperson or a salesperson in the field of new and developing technologies and software.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I enjoy playing pickleball, watching movies, going on runs and helping other entrepreneurs launch their ideas into working products, and systems!