Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Chris Donzelli: HVAC Star

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

CONCORD — Chris Donzelli was in between jobs when he decided to start from scratch and enter a new professional field. “It all started when I answered a newspaper ad placed by a local HVAC company,” he remembers. “I knew nothing about the field, but I was willing to learn, so they gave me a shot. During the next few years, I learned how to service and install residential heating and cooling equipment. Today, after 16 years in the industry, I own my own company. It just goes to show what you can accomplish when you put all your effort toward a goal.”

As owner of Perfect Star Heating and Air Conditioning, Chris says his favorite part of his job is developing his team. “I love teaching my employees and helping them hone their skills and knowledge in the industry. I’m very passionate about developing people—it’s extremely rewarding to see them grow and succeed.”

A resident of Brentwood (where he lives with his wife and two children), Chris expresses his appreciation for life in the Bay Area. “The weather isn’t harsh like in other parts of the country. Also, everything is close by—we’re just a couple of hours away from the snow, the beach and the wine country.”

Outside of work, Chris spends most of his free time having fun with his family. “We enjoy playing games together—pool, ping pong and chess are some of our favorites,” he details. “We’re also pretty outdoorsy and love to go camping and boating.”

In his life and career, Chris espouses the value of perseverance. “Get rid of powerless words like ‘can’t’—they won’t get you anywhere,” he advises. “Usually, when someone says they can’t do something, the truth is they just won’t do it. In reality, with plenty of effort and the right attitude, you can do anything you want.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What are your favorite sports teams?
A: The San Francisco 49ers, the San Francisco Giants and the Golden State Warriors.

Q: What kind of music do you like?
A: All kinds, from classic rock to country to hip-hop.

Q: What’s your favorite restaurant?
A: Melo’s Pizza & Pasta in Brentwood. However, if we’re going to splurge, it’s Ruth’s Chris Steak House in Walnut Creek.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Italy. I’m interested in the history, especially since my ancestors came from there.

Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Beef jerky.