Shoring Engineers

René Contreras
P.E., Vice President
René would truly rather be in the dirt than behind a desk - whether working on a construction site or climbing uphill on his mountain bike. It's all about the great outdoors. And that's why our clients love him. He is our key estimator, but is also deeply rooted in project management and design. After graduating in 1995 from UCI with a B.S. in Civil Engineering, he landed at Shoring in 1996 and hasn't looked back ever since. René is also registered in California as a professional engineer. After work, he commits to quality time with his wife and two children.
Serafin "Poppy" Gonzales
General Superintendent, Shoring and Excavation
Serafin started his studies in architecture and engineering in Mexico and came to the U.S. on a student visa where “I met a girl, and that was the end of it – I stayed.” He continued his engineering education at Fullerton and Cypress Colleges and joined Shoring in 1989 as a driver. Under George Sr.’s mentorship he advanced to positions as a drill rig operator and crane operator, and now oversees all the company’s shoring and excavation work. His favorite part of the job is “the math, science, and teams behind making abuilding stand.” In his off hours, Serafin loves camping, hiking, and barbecuing with his family.
George Woodley Sr.
Founder and Director
One man's vision has elevated Shoring Engineers to be victorious year after year - George A. Woodley. As the founder and current director of Shoring Engineers, his forward-thinking leadership and firm guidance has been the backbone to keeping the business in the black. He champions each project with the most cost-effective and timesaving solutions to ensure success. Five decades later, Shoring is stronger than ever and still poised for continuous growth.
George Woodley Jr.
President
George Jr. graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He joined Shoring Engineers soon after in 1989, and has lent his expertise to high profile projects such as The Staples Center and the LAC-USC County Hospital, among others. He is also registered in California as a professional engineer. George is an avid fisherman and enjoys tennis.
Elda Mariscal
Safety Director
Elda brings over 11 years of experience in the construction industry, with a strong background that now supports her Safety role in the drilling and shoring field. Her passion for construction is matched by a deep commitment to safety, particularly in high-risk environments where precision and planning are critical. Elda is highly skilled in identifying job-specific hazards and implementing proactive safety measures that protect crews working in complex ground conditions. She is known for her ability to build trust with field teams and promote a safety culture rooted in communication, accountability, and care. What sets Elda apart her hands-on experience and her unwavering focus on making sure everyone gets home safely each day. She views safety not just as a responsibility, but as a personal mission shaped by real-world experience. Elda’s family is her daily motivation, and she brings that same level of care and commitment to every project she supports.
Abdel Aboganem
Fleet Manager
Abdel has been in the drilling industry since 2001 and joined Shoring Engineers in November 2025 as Equipment Manager. Within the last 25 years he has expanded his knowledge from Heavy Duty Mechanic to Equipment Superintendent. Also, he has managed and delegated personnel. Years in the industry have given him vast experience with European Drilling Equipment. The last 4 years were spent as a Subject Matter Expert lending his skills in the subjects of Drilling Equipment and Cranes. He has extensive knowledge in drilling practices that include Drilled Shafts cased and uncased, Spherical Grab, CFA, CSM, FDP, Tiebacks and Micropiles. Abdel enjoys spending time with his family doing outdoor activities such as playing golf, walking and hiking. He also enjoys collecting vinyl records.

From the office to the construction site, our management team provides vision and leadership that delivers superior results.

With second and third generations of employees on a staff that spans over five decades, Shoring’s success is achieved through consistent, careful management of the company.

Our Management

George Woodley Jr.

President
George Jr. graduated from the University of Southern California with a B.S. in Civil Engineering. He joined Shoring Engineers soon after in 1989, and has lent his expertise to high profile projects such as The Staples Center and the LAC-USC County Hospital, among others...

René Contreras

P.E., Vice President
René would truly rather be in the dirt than behind a desk - whether working on a construction site or climbing uphill on his mountain bike. It's all about the great outdoors. And that's why our clients love him...

Elda Mariscal

Safety Director
Elda brings over 11 years of experience in the construction industry, with a strong background that now supports her Safety role...

Serafin "Poppy" Gonzales

General Superintendent, Shoring and Excavation
Serafin started his studies in architecture and engineering in Mexico and came to the U.S. on a student visa ...

Abdel Aboganem

Fleet Manager
Abdel has been in the drilling industry since 2001 and joined Shoring Engineers in November 2025 as Equipment Manager. Within the last 25 years he has expanded his knowledge ...

George Woodley Sr.

Founder and Director
One man's vision has elevated Shoring Engineers to be victorious year after year - George A. Woodley. As the founder and current director of Shoring Engineers, his forward-thinking leadership and firm guidance has been the backbone to keeping the business in the black...