Meet Our Diamond Certified Expert Contributor

Sergio Ramirez: Building Value

By Julie Deacon, Diamond Certified Research Writer

For Sergio Ramirez, getting involved in the roofing industry didn’t come from a single decision—it was shaped over time through early exposure, family influence and a deep-rooted familiarity with the trade. Growing up with a father who has worked in construction for more than three decades, Sergio was immersed from an early age in both the technical side of the industry and the mindset required to succeed within it. “My dad got into construction in the mid-’90s, so roofing has been a lifelong thing for me,” he says. “I’ve always been tied to this business.”

In 2023, Sergio teamed up with his father and brother to establish Build Atlas, a company focused on delivering high-quality roofing solutions and addressing broader inefficiencies within the industry itself. “Roofing is very fragmented—there’s a lack of standardization,” he explains. “We’re trying to bring structure to the industry and use our company as a vehicle to provide our clients with high-quality products.”

That larger sense of purpose drives Sergio’s day-to-day work, as he balances the technical, operational and strategic demands of Build Atlas with a deeper motivation rooted in building something meaningful alongside his family. While the industry itself presents constant challenges and opportunities for problem-solving, it’s ultimately the collaborative nature of the work that he finds the most rewarding. “My father, my brother and I have different skill sets that complement each other,” he says. “Taking the best of what each of us brings to the table and building things together…that’s the most satisfying part.”

A resident of Brentwood, Sergio says he values both the professional opportunities and varied accessibility that come with life in the East Bay. “The weather is great and we’re within a few hours of just about everything. The Bay Area is special in that way—it’s a central place to be and there’s a true sense of community.”

Describing his family as supportive and deeply connected, Sergio emphasizes a business culture built on mutual respect, collaboration and a shared commitment to helping each other succeed. “We’re very much about how we can help each other,” he affirms. “That’s something that shapes both our family and our business.”

Outside of work, Sergio gravitates toward activities that allow him to remain active while also stepping away from the structure of daily operations, like surfing, hiking, camping and hunting. He also maintains a strong interest in reading, which he views as both intellectually enriching and personally grounding.

When asked what his life might look like if he retired tomorrow, Sergio admits that it would be difficult to set aside his drive to build and create. “I’d probably still be doing this,” he says. “Building a company, solving problems and providing value is incredibly fulfilling. There’s nothing else quite like it.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: If you could time-travel, would you go to the past or the future?
A: The future. I want to see Build Atlas evolve into a nationwide brand that consistently serves clients at the highest possible level.

Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?
A: Definitely a dog person, although I do have respect for cats.

Q: What kind of dog do you have?
A: She’s half German Shepherd and half coyote, which some people call a “dogote.” She’s incredibly rare, so it feels like having something magical.

Q: If you could talk to anyone living or dead, who would it be?
A: My grandfather. I never had a chance to meet him, but I’ve always heard he was an extraordinary and deeply intelligent man.