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Blake Beesley: Choosing to Be Kind

By Matt Solis, Editor

Blake Beesley’s journey into the plumbing industry began with family roots and a desire to contribute to a legacy. “I first got involved with Pacific Plumbing Systems in 2014, working with my father and brother,” he recalls. “My dad has been a plumber my whole life, so I would help him after school sometimes and I grew to really enjoy it. I ended up going to Chico State to get a business degree, but I came back to help run our office operations and support the service department.”

Today, as operations manager of Pacific Plumbing Systems, Blake says he appreciates the variety that his role offers. “My favorite part of the job is wearing so many hats. As a small, family-owned business, we work on all types of jobs and meet lots of different people, so I love building those relationships and knowing we’re making a tangible, positive impact on their lives.”

Originally from Copperopolis, a small mountain town in Calaveras County, Blake currently resides in Berkeley and loves taking advantage of all that life in the East Bay has to offer. “I love the weather, fresh air and access to nature,” he affirms. “It’s such a welcoming, vibrant city—I feel blessed to be here. I actually live in an intentional living community with young professionals from all over the world. It’s a great environment where we work, grow and support each other.”

An active person, Blake’s hobbies reflect his love for the outdoors. “I enjoy paddle boarding, hiking, surfing and snowboarding,” he says. “On weekends, you’ll often find me spending time with friends and family, barbecuing, playing cornhole, or stargazing. When I get home from work, I like to rock climb, lift weights or work in the garden at our house. We even have a badminton court and a hot tub, so there’s always something fun to do.”

When it comes to a guiding philosophy, Blake is quick to quote Pacific Plumbing Systems’ office manager, Lisa Finch. “A while ago, Lisa told me, ‘If you can be anything in this world, choose to be kind,’ and that always stuck with me,” he offers. “It’s a reminder to treat each person with respect, no matter what’s happening with your day.”

When asked what his life might look like if he could retire tomorrow, Blake’s adventurous spirit shines through. “I would grab my passport and travel the world,” he says. “I’ve lived in Thailand and Vietnam at different points in my life, so I like experiencing new places and challenging myself to get out of my comfort zone. I just really want to see what the world has to offer!”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could immediately travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Japan. I would love to see the cherry blossoms and do some hiking on Mount Fuji.

Q: What’s the most death-defying activity you’ve ever attempted?
A: I’ve been skydiving twice, and the first time I did it was on my 16th birthday.

Q: What’s your earliest memory?
A: Going to Florida to visit some extended family. We went to a wild animal show and they wrapped a snake around my body.

Q: What’s your favorite smell?
A: When you smell food before it enters a grease interceptor, there’s no going back.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Have some friends over and watch educational documentaries and YouTube videos.