Jack Chan: The Family Stone
By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter
SAN LEANDRO — When Jack Chan’s parents started a stone product installation business, he could see it was a good professional opportunity. However, it wasn’t until after he’d explored some other options that he decided to pursue it as a full-time career. “My parents started Amazing Stone, Inc. when I was 18 years old,” he remembers. “Soon after, I went to college and eventually graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. However, running a business seemed more fun than going into engineering; as a people-person, I preferred the idea of interacting with customers to that of spending my days drawing at a desk. So, I went to work for my parents, and 13 years later, I’m the sales manager here.”
Originally from Hong Kong, Jack came to the Bay Area at age 14 and today resides in San Ramon with his wife, Katie. Outside of work, he says his favorite activity is relaxing. “I work six days a week, so I’m kind of a couch potato on Sundays,” he laughs. “A couple of my favorite pastimes are cooking and watching movies.” Jack says he also enjoys traveling when the opportunity arises. “My wife and I usually do a big trip every couple of years. So far, we’ve been to Japan, South Korea, Thailand and Hong Kong.”
In his life and career, Jack espouses the importance of being passionate. “I think in order to truly succeed at something, whether in life or in business, you have to set your heart on it and have a passion for it,” he affirms. “For me, there’s a lot of fulfillment to be had from helping people and solving difficult problems. The challenges we face on a daily basis keep things interesting.”
When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Jack says he’d take an extended vacation. “Right now, I only travel every couple of years, but if I were to retire and could afford it, I would plan a trip around the world.”
Ask Me Anything!
Q: What’s your favorite movie genre?
A: I really like psychological movies like “Ex Machina.”
Q: Are you a dog person or a cat person?
A: Definitely a dog person. We have a dog named Billy.
Q: What’s your favorite type of food?
A: American-Asian fusion.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Japan. I went there four years ago and really liked it.
Q: What’s your favorite snack?
A: Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.
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