Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Josh Gibson: No Shortcuts

By Caitlyn Stair, Diamond Certified Research Reporter

In a field where quick fixes and low bids often take priority, Josh Gibson approaches plumbing with a different mindset. For him, it’s a craft built on attention to detail, accountability and a commitment to doing the job right the first time.

Josh’s introduction to plumbing started early. He was already on jobsites at just six years old, watching his father and uncles build the home he grew up in. “I was probably in the way most of the time, but I was there sanding copper pipe and rolling out putty,” he laughs. When he was 16, he started working with his uncle in new construction plumbing and learned the fundamentals of the trade from the ground up.

While he valued that early experience, Josh quickly realized he wanted more than just technical work. “In new construction, you never really meet the customers, so you don’t get to see their reactions or hear their feedback,” he explains. That realization led him to transition into service plumbing in 2010, where he could connect directly with homeowners.

Starting as an apprentice in San Jose, he quickly advanced to a service technician and later a field supervisor, sharpening his technical skills and leadership along the way. That experience led him to Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter Inc., where he saw an opportunity to take everything he had learned and build something better. Partnering with owner Glenn Hammonds, he helped shape a company that prioritizes both the customer experience and team development.

Today, as operations lead at Plumbtree Plumbing & Rooter, Josh focuses on ensuring every project reflects the company’s core values: service, craftsmanship and accountability. He says the most rewarding part of his job is seeing the work and his team members come together. “I take a lot of pride in the craftsmanship side of things. Seeing the work done correctly and watching our team grow and take pride in what they’ve done…those are the best parts.”

Josh says he and his team take the time to understand each customer’s needs, educate them on their options, and deliver solutions that truly serve them for the long term. “We want to be the plumbing company that people look to when they want quality and accountability. We’re not trying to be the cheapest—we’re striving to do things the right way.”

That commitment extends to every aspect of the business. Josh takes a hands-on role in maintaining quality, ensuring each job is completed to the same high standards. “Even if the work is underneath the house and no one will see it, it still matters,” he says. “It should look just as good as anything above ground.”

Josh has lived and worked in the Bay Area since 2010 and currently resides in San Jose with his wife, Bailee, and their two children, Brayson and Hadley. “I love the community here—there’s a great energy, the weather is fantastic and there’s always something to do,” he says. Outside of work, he’s an avid car enthusiast and active member of the San Jose Classic Chevy Club, where he participates in car shows that often support local charities. “Anything car-related, I’m there. I love working on them, driving them and being around people who appreciate them.”

For Josh, the standard is simple: Every job should reflect the same level of care. “Your name is attached to everything you do, so make sure you stand behind it and never cut corners,” he offers. “Anyone can make something look good from 50 feet away, but it’s what you see when you get closer that really matters.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s the first thing you’d do if you could retire tomorrow?
A: I’d probably semi-retire but still do some plumbing. I’ve always said that I’m not the type to just sit on a beach and do nothing.

Q: Who’s your favorite musician?
A: Cody Jinks is at the top of my list, but Ward Davis and Paul Cauthen are up there, too. My wife and I go to their shows whenever they’re nearby, and we’ve even flown out to Red Rocks a few times to see them.

Q: Are you an early bird or a night owl?
A: Both. If there’s a car show, I’m up at 5am getting everything ready, but when it comes to work, I’m definitely more of a night owl. I like working after everyone else has gone to sleep.

Q: If you could transport yourself to any fictional world, what would it be?
A: The world of Pixar’s “Cars.”