Mario Martinez: A Friendly Connection
By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter
ANTIOCH — After 15 years in the pest control business, Mario Martinez traces his industry roots back to a friendly connection. “In 2000, a friend of mine got promoted to branch manager for a local pest control company, at which point he offered me a job,” he explains. “Prior to that, I had been working for a company that manufactured chemical landscaping products like liquid fertilizer and weed killer, so it sort of overlapped with pest control. My friend brought me on board and helped me get licensed. After about 10 years working with him, I started my own company, but we continue to be good friends today.”
Today, as owner of All N One Pest Eliminators, Mario says he appreciates the many opportunities his job affords him to help others. “Few pest control companies offer all the services a customer might need, so I like being able to provide a broad range of solutions. Also, as the company has grown, I’ve been able to provide employment for many people, including members of my family, which feels really good.”
A longtime East Bay resident (where he lives with his wife, Kristy, and their two children), Mario expresses his appreciation for the temperate local climate. “Great weather—that’s what I love about working in the Bay Area,” he says. “My job requires me to work outside most of the time, so the nice weather really makes it a pleasure.”
Outside of work, Mario’s favorite pastime is exploring the diverse Bay Area landscape. “My job keeps me pretty busy, but when I get a chance, I like to get away with my family,” he says. “One of our favorite activities is going camping, fishing and jet skiing at local lakes like East Park Reservoir. We just like seeing different places and enjoying everything the Bay Area has to offer.” However, as much as he loves being out and about, Mario also enjoys relaxing at home and watching TV, movies, and sports.
In his life and career, Mario espouses the centrality of honesty. “Honesty is the most important thing,” he affirms. “For example, if we find ourselves in a situation where we aren’t able to help a customer, it’s on us to be upfront and let them know rather than just save face. Even in such instances, which are pretty rare, customers appreciate being told the truth and being treated in a respectful way.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Mario says he’d take a trip. “My wife and I really enjoy traveling, so I’d probably plan a vacation. There are plenty of places we’d like to see and experience, so that would give us an opportunity to do so.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?
A: Definitely a dog person. We have two dogs: a miniature chihuahua and a pit bull.
Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Stay home, order a pizza and watch a movie.
Q: What do you like on your pizza?
A: Pesto, white garlic sauce, artichokes, bacon and chicken.
Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: It’s a tie between Thanksgiving and Christmas—everybody gets together and it’s a great family time.
Q: What was your favorite toy as a child?
A: My WWF action figures. I used to have a bunch of them, including Hulk Hogan and Rowdy Roddy Piper, and always had a blast playing with them.
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