Atlas Pavers Co.

Itamar M. Junior: Paving a Livelihood

By James Florence, Senior Writer

After coming to the United States from his home country of Brazil, Itamar M. Junior immediately set to work paving a professional livelihood for himself. “I started out as a laborer for a large paving company, and from there I developed a passion for paver design and installation,” he recounts. “During the next several years, I did many projects and gained valuable experience in the trade. I also learned a lot about customer service. Eventually, I decided to take the knowledge and experience I’d accumulated and start an independent paver business, which I did with my partner, Candido Silva, in 2012.”

Today, as co-owner of Atlas Pavers Co., Itamar says his favorite part of his job is working with customers. “I like interacting with our clients and delivering exactly what they’re looking for. With each project, I take time to get to know the customer’s needs and expectations, which helps me ensure those expectations are met in the end.”

A resident of El Cerrito, Itamar spends most of his time outside of work with his family, consisting of his wife, Jenny, a 16-year-old son and a 1-year-old daughter. “I like hanging out with family, whether we’re going to the movies or swimming and barbequing at home,” he details. “We also get involved in charity events with the Masons of California, of which I’m a member.” In addition to family time, Itamar enjoys practicing martial arts (“I’ve been doing jiu-jitsu my whole life.”) and reading motivational books.

In regard to a professional philosophy, Itamar espouses the importance of achieving a balance between work and life. “As a business owner, I have to devote most of my day to my work, but I also realize the importance of family time,” he explains. “Even after I get home in the afternoon, I often still have work to do—phone calls, scheduling and organizing for the following day. However, I’ve made it a rule that at 8pm, I have to stop what I’m doing and focus on my family. I find that setting aside that time helps me maintain a healthy balance in my life.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Itamar says he’d do some globetrotting. “I would take my family and go explore the world. My first trip would probably be to Italy. I’ve always wanted to see Venice and ride on the gondoliers. And, of course, the wine is always good.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Pretzels.

Q: Is there a book that has been particularly influential for you?
A: “Chicken Soup for the Soul” by Jack Canfield.

Q: What’s your favorite kind of food?
A: Brazilian.

Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: Thanksgiving. It’s a good time to give thanks for everything we have and share some of that with those who are less fortunate.

Q: Pancakes or waffles?
A: Waffles.