Diaz and Sons Construction

Leo Diaz: A Family Operation

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

SANTA ROSA — Leo Diaz found success as a contractor thanks to both a family background and an entrepreneurial streak. “Growing up, I had several family members in the trades, including my father who was an electrician,” he recounts. “I’ve basically been working my whole life. Even as a kid, I was doing lawn maintenance and other jobs for my ‘clients’ around the neighborhood.”

Following high school, Leo enlisted in the U.S. military, where he took part in Operation Desert Storm during his three tours of duty. After finishing his service, he relocated from his home state of Maryland to California to be with his wife, Heidi, whom he met while stationed in Alameda. In 1999, he started his own construction business, and two decades later, he’s joined by his two sons, Lorenzo and Maximus. “It’s a real family operation,” he affirms.

Today, as president of Diaz and Sons Construction, Leo says his favorite part of his job is turning his clients’ visions into reality. “I enjoy sitting down with a client, getting an understanding of what they want to accomplish and bringing that to fruition for them.”

A resident of Santa Rosa, Leo expresses his appreciation for life in the Bay Area. “Maryland is a nice place, but it has cold winters and hot, humid summers. Here, there’s no humidity and we get blue skies almost all year long. Also, there’s an endless amount of things to do. I love mountain biking in Trione-Annadel State Park, as well as golfing and fishing.”

In regard to his professional career, Leo espouses the importance of putting your best foot forward. “Every time I work for a client, I try to give them the best job possible,” he explains. “I want to make an impression on them, so the next time they need work, they’ll call me again. Basically, my goal is for every client to be a long-term client, and the only way to accomplish that is by doing great work.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Alaska.

Q: What’s your favorite restaurant?
A: My house—my wife is the best cook I know of!

Q: What’s your favorite TV show?
A: “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.”

Q: Do you collect anything?
A: I collect all kinds of things, including fishing rods, tools and lighters.

Q: What’s your favorite holiday?
A: Thanksgiving, because there’s no gift exchange and it’s all about family.