Embracing Change | Positive Attitude | Finding Solutions

Chris Fierros' Journey

Chris Fierros traveled across the United States from Florida to pursue a new way of life. He grew up in the trades with his dad showing him the ropes but decided to shift gears towards plumbing around 2019, after COVID. There was stability in the industry and challenges that offered him a chance to solve problems which gave him a strong sense of determination. In the beginning he faced: long hours, hard physical labor, cold weather, and some harsh conditions that tempted him to give up at times. With the right support system at American Rooter & Drain, combined with his drive to take care of his family, he was able to overcome his doubts and worked his way up to a top position as a Technician Supervisor. 

As a supervisor, bonding with your technicians is necessary to craft optimal performance at each jobsite. His focus on motivating them in the mornings, being available to answer questions with his own experience, and having their back when situations get tough – has enabled them to remain a united front. Under his supervision, Chris has witnessed team members begin to excel in specific areas where they originally struggled. One of the most important messages he conveys while training is, “When you’re going to these jobs, it is like pulling the bloodwork. You are going to pull the bloodwork from the home, figure out everything that is wrong, and provide those details to the customer so they can consider their options. That way you aren’t pushing anything on them, but they have info they need to make an informed decision. Just be thorough, the last thing you want is to get a call on a Sunday where a customer’s home is being flooded, and they want to know why you were just out there without catching a problem to prevent it.” 

Positive Mindset

Having a positive attitude is his major strength that he brings to the table and his favorite company value to consistently act on. Chris admits it took him some time to make it a habit and occasionally he still gets tested in his line of work. “I’ve learned to not take it personally. When customers realize you are there to help and to relieve stress, they are grateful for your presence.” Being a leader for his teammates and focusing on finding permanent solutions to help customers, provides a straightforward path. Having that kind of direction has been a blessing since it provides meaning in his day-to-day schedule. 

His uplifting demeanor has created lasting bonds with customers who sincerely appreciate him as their technician and as a person. When he runs into them in a grocery store or a restaurant, they call him by name with a smile on their face and ask how he has been. This is the kind of character we seek in anyone who applies at American Rooter & Drain. We strive to be more than just a face or a solution in hard times; we value connection and family within our community and view others as part of our own. Chris is a prime example of Richard Bach's quote, "The bond that links your true family is not one of blood, but of respect and joy in each other's life."

Matching Vision

Chris is married to his middle school sweetheart, Samantha, and they have five beautiful children (including an adorable set of twins). He is family man who loves to cook with his wife and actively spends quality time creating fun memories with his children. Chris leads by example at home and at work. He is the kind of person you immediately love working with due to his humble nature, authentic presence, and his consistent professionalism. He enjoys teaching others as it continually expands his own knowledge base with a variety of experiences that come with each unique job.

Outside of work hours, he wants to increase his financial knowledge and learn more about business in general. His favorite hobbies include: fishing, hiking, shooting targets and hunting, “Hunting has been a good way to find myself and have moments of peace in nature. I shot my first buck this year! Although, duck hunting is my top choice. You know, sometimes it can be miserable but that is what makes it worth it - once you get it.” Even in his off time, he loves the challenge! We are so grateful to have him as part of our team and family. He plans to grow with our company and pass down his skillset to as many technicians as possible. 

Written by: Faith Malloy

Published 11/22/2024

Careers | The Trades | Grow Together