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Frank Canova Jr.: Long-Term Rewards

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SAN RAMON – While Frank Canova Jr. has been involved in the cabinet making business for more than a decade, it may come as a surprise to learn that he began his career in an entirely unrelated industry. “I started out in technology consulting,” he explains. “After spending six years traveling around the United States doing software implementation, I began to feel a desire for a better balance between work and life. At that point, my father and I started discussing the prospect of becoming business partners. After talking it over for the better part of a year, we decided it was the right move. Today, I’m president of Diablo Valley Cabinetry.” Frank says one thing he appreciates about the cabinet making industry is the enduring nature of the product. “As a software programmer, a lot of what I did tended to become obsolete within a couple years, whereas cabinets are something that people will enjoy for many years to come.”

Frank grew up in Danville and attended Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo before his job as a technology consultant took him all over the country, from Florida to Arizona to Kansas. His later career transition brought him back to the East Bay, where he now lives with his wife, Kate, and their daughters, Olivia and Natalie. Frank says the indigenous landscape provides a perfect setting for the outdoor activities that he and his family enjoy on a regular basis. “We like outdoor pursuits such as skiing, hiking and mountain biking, and we also love the ocean, so having it all within a short distance is really great. Our girls are just getting to the age where we’re able to involve them in some of the activities we love, so that’s been a lot of fun.” Frank is also an avid triathlete, and he typically participates in one or two events every year. “I was more competitive when I was younger, but now I mainly do them as a way to stay active,” he says.

In his life and career, Frank believes treating others with respect is the best way to build lasting relationships. “How you treat people is key,” he affirms. “At Diablo Valley Cabinetry, for example, we try to treat everyone fairly and with integrity, and that has allowed us to foster long-term relationships with clients and employees alike.”

When asked what he would do if he could retire tomorrow, Frank says he’d invest in giving back to his community. “As a small business owner, retirement isn’t something I think about as much as establishing a long-term work/life balance. But if I am fortunate enough to be able to retire, I’d like to get involved with some community programs, mentoring young people and serving the needs of others.” Additionally, Frank says he’d take the opportunity to see more of the world. “My wife and I really enjoy traveling, exploring new places and having adventures, so we’d definitely like to do a bit more of that in the future.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: Do you have a favorite sports team?
A: I really like the 49ers, the Warriors and the A’s.

Q: What’s your favorite tree?
A: I’m always impressed with the majesty of Giant Sequoia and Redwood trees.

Q: Did you play any sports in high school?
A: I played basketball, and I was fortunate to be part of a very talented team that went to the state championship two years in a row. I also learned a lot from our coach about things like teamwork, setting goals and having a strong work ethic.

Q: What’s the best gift you ever received?
A: That’s easy—my daughters.

Q: What’s your favorite genre of movies?
A: I enjoy sci-fi and action movies.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?
A: A bagel with a glass of orange juice.