Jonatan Bautista: Plumbing Inspiration
By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter
SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO — When asked what made him want to become a plumber, Jonatan Bautista traces his inspiration back to a particular incident in his young life. “On my 17th birthday, just a few hours before my party was going to start, our house’s sewer system backed up,” he recalls. “The plumber came out, fixed everything and pretty much saved the day, which really made an impression on me. I’d always been mechanically inclined, so when I graduated high school, I decided to give plumbing a shot. I went to trade school in Fremont and spent a decade working in the field before starting my own business, which is where I’m at today.”
Today, as owner of Oro Pro Plumbing, Inc., Jonatan says his favorite part of his job is the daily variety it entails. “I enjoy interacting with different customers, as well as the variety of situations I encounter. Every day is different—you never know what you’re going to get into—but having a good team and the right equipment allows me to solve every problem and provide great service along the way.”
A lifetime resident of San Bruno, Jonatan expresses his appreciation for the Bay Area’s characteristic diversity. “Working in the Bay Area, we serve customers from all different cultures and lifestyles, which is something I really enjoy. It’s interesting, though—despite our many differences, I still find similarities in the way we all look at and experience life.”
Outside of work, Jonatan enjoys a variety of pastimes, from following professional sports to engaging in outdoor activities. “I’m a big sports fan and enjoy watching football, basketball, and baseball,” he says. “I also like hanging out with friends and taking my dog, Ziggy, on hikes and trail runs around the area.”
In regard to his professional career, Jonatan espouses the importance of educating customers. “Plumbing is an expensive service, so I like to make my customers feel comfortable by being as informative as I can,” he says. “I always explain what we’re going to do and what kinds of scenarios may arise, so they never feel taken off guard. Overall, I find that informed customers tend to be more comfortable and confident, which is better for everyone.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Jonatan says he’d plan an international vacation. “I would take a month-long trip to Europe. Anywhere in Europe would be nice, but in particular I’d like to see Italy and Spain, especially because I’m a big fan of Italian food.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite sports team?
A: The San Francisco Giants.
Q: What were you most known for in high school?
A: Being the class clown.
Q: If you could time travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: Probably the past, just because I wouldn’t want to know my future.
Q: Music or talk radio?
A: Music.
Q: What kind of music do you like?
A: I’m all over the place. I listen to everything from hip hop and R&B to salsa music.
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