Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Alan Lee: Lending a Hand

By Caitlyn Stair, Diamond Certified Research Reporter

When Alan Lee sees a need, his instinct is to help. From lending a hand to neighbors in distress to guiding clients through complex projects, he has built a career defined by service, integrity and human connection.

Alan’s journey to the patio cover industry began in the U.S. Navy, where he served from 1980 to 1992. Originally from Denver, Colorado, he was stationed in Pensacola, Florida during a period of devastating hurricanes. Seeing the need around him, Alan volunteered as a CPR-qualified water survival instructor and Civic Center helper while assisting homeowners with storm damage. “I believe in community service—that’s why I joined the military to begin with, and to this day, I’ll go out of my way to help somebody out,” he says. “I’ll give back to others even if that means taking food off of my table.”

Recognizing the opportunity to make a larger impact, Alan went door-to-door offering to repair damaged pool enclosures. What began as volunteer work quickly turned into a full-time career that led him to his next step. “I’d never done construction before, so I just knocked on doors and figured it out,” he reflects. “It got to the point where I was so busy that I decided it was time to leave the military.”

In 1995, Alan moved to California and founded Sunbusters Patio Cover Company, Inc., where he has been the driving force ever since. He runs the company with hands-on training and avoids subcontractors, ensuring every project meets his exacting standards. Treating employees as equals has fostered a loyal, long-tenured team and a growing base of repeat customers. “If I have to take my shirt off my back, I’ll do that,” he says. “That’s how I operate and that’s how I run my company.”

Even after stepping away from hands-on installation and sales, Alan remains passionate about working with people. He finds fulfillment in mentoring his team and supporting his clients when challenges arise. “I like dealing with people,” he affirms. “I love being able to step in and connect with them directly.”

Outside of work, Alan treasures his family and community connections. He lives in Oakley with his wife, Jill, and their boy-girl twins, John and Gracie. The family is rounded out with five dogs and three cats. Early travels and experiences abroad gave Alan a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and people—a perspective that continues to shape his approach to life and work. “I don’t need to take a vacation to get away from what I like,” he offers. “I just enjoy being with people.”

For Alan, business and life are guided by the same principles: honesty, integrity and a positive outlook. He believes in clear communication, staying grounded and prioritizing happiness—not just for himself, but for his family, his team and his customers as well. “My philosophy on life is all about honesty and integrity,” he says. “But mostly, life is about being happy.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could retire tomorrow, what’s the first thing you would do?
A: I wouldn’t change a thing. I’d just be myself and have more conversations with people—that’s what brings me joy.

Q: What’s your favorite holiday memory?
A: When I was a kid, I dreamed about having a model of the aircraft carrier USS Midway and I actually got it for Christmas one year. Years later, I served on the real USS Midway in the Navy. It’s wild to think I was on the very ship that I dreamed about as a child.

Q: Do you prefer being somewhere cold or somewhere hot?
A: Somewhere cold, especially if I can stay cozy in a warm cabin. It brings back a lot of good memories.

Q: Do you have a favorite sports team?
A: I’m a bit of a traitor—I rotate between the Denver Broncos, the San Francisco 49ers and the Las Vegas Raiders, depending on who’s doing the best. Last year it was the Broncos, so I think I’ll stick with them this year.