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Francisco Zuno: Pipeline to Success

By Julie Deacon, Diamond Certified Research Writer

Growing up surrounded by construction professionals, Francisco Zuno developed a deep understanding of the building trades early in life. “I’ve been around architects, builders and engineers since I was six years old,” he explains. “Growing up, I saw how every piece of a construction project fit together, and plumbing quickly became one of the most interesting parts for me.”

Francisco began his professional journey in the construction industry in the mid-1990s. From electrical and concrete to carpentry and roofing, he mastered nearly every trade on the jobsite. Eventually, however, he decided to concentrate on plumbing because it offered the variety and technical challenges he was looking for. “Plumbing has a lot of ups and downs, and every situation can be different,” he says. “I’ve always liked a challenge, so it was a natural fit for me.”

In 2017, Francisco founded Tremors Plumbing And Sewer Inc., a company built on both technical expertise and a commitment to customer service. The timing coincided with family needs and Francisco realizing he wanted a role that allowed him to be present at home while still pursuing his passion. “I was helping others get their plumbing licenses and coaching technicians, so I figured I should probably get my own license,” he recalls. “I found some old trade books, studied them and passed the test.”

Today, Francisco says his favorite part of his job is solving problems that have stumped other plumbing professionals. “I like hearing that several plumbers have already been there and nobody could figure out what was wrong. Most of the time, I can look at the situation and find the problem pretty quickly.”

A Bay Area resident for more than 30 years, Francisco currently lives in San Mateo with his wife and their five children, where he appreciates the region’s moderate climate. “The weather in San Mateo is perfect,” he affirms. “It’s not too cold like Daly City and not too hot like San Jose.”

Although work occupies much of Francisco’s time, he also makes plenty of room for his biggest hobby: gardening. “I like growing roses, vegetables and especially tomatoes,” he details. “I’ve grown tomato plants that were 12 feet tall. My youngest son, Phillip, likes to destroy them, though, so I haven’t been able to grow as much as I usually do. I’m being emotionally tortured by a three-year-old!”

Ultimately, Francisco’s outlook can be summed up in a simple phrase: “Live and learn.” It’s a fitting philosophy for someone whose career has been shaped by decades of mastering new trades, confronting challenges and turning difficult circumstances into an opportunity to build something of his own.

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s the first thing you’d do if you could retire tomorrow?
A: I wouldn’t retire. I love what I do too much to stop.

Q: What’s your favorite smell?
A: Roses.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to do on a rainy day?
A: Watch TV and play with my kids.

Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: The Fourth of July.

Q: What’s your favorite fruit?
A: Mango.