One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in my career is to always be willing to learn and challenge yourself. Expand your knowledge beyond your role, understand how your work impacts the larger organization, and recognize that every team member—regardless of position—has something to teach you.
Construction has always been personal to me. My parents immigrated from China, and my father built a career in electrical construction, running his own small business. I started helping him in junior high school and continued through college. Watching him work hard with his own two hands to provide for our family left a lasting impression on me. His grit and determination continue to inspire me.
Great leadership is about recognizing and supporting your team. I know I can’t do my job without my team’s support, and in turn, they need mine. Everyone plays a critical role, and I want each person to know their contributions matter. Some team members may be early in their careers, but they bring fresh perspectives and efficiencies—it’s essential to recognize their strengths so we can achieve more together.
My father’s journey is my greatest inspiration. Growing up during China’s Cultural Revolution, he had limited opportunities for education. He was one of the “freedom swimmers,” making three attempts to swim from mainland China to Hong Kong in search of a better life. He was successful on his last attempt, and his perseverance has shaped my outlook. I don’t take opportunities for granted. Being the first in my family to go to college is a privilege I deeply appreciate.
Family is everything to me. I have three kids, and spending time with them is my greatest joy. We love camping, traveling, and exploring new restaurants. With my kids on the swim team, we also spend a lot of time at meets.
Work is always better when you collaborate. I thrive in a team environment and believe that sharing ideas and working together leads to the best outcomes. Plus, it’s just more fun.
In finance and business, transparency is essential. I’ve always believed that being open makes us more strategic and fosters trust. That’s how I lead my teams—helping them understand the “why” behind our actions creates motivation and alignment. I also value Truebeck’s commitment to transparency at all levels of leadership.
Born and raised in Oakland, I’m an East Bay native and a U.C. Berkeley graduate. The Bay Area is special to me—because of my family and friends, and because it’s a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and innovation. It’s a place that constantly pushes boundaries, and I love being part of that energy.
I’ve always been drawn to building. As a kid, I loved taking things apart and putting them back together. Even though I work with numbers and spreadsheets today, I still admire the creativity and skill that goes into construction.
A great workplace is built on strong relationships. We spend more time at work than at home, so it should feel like a second family—where people can have fun, support each other, and not take themselves too seriously. I appreciate my team’s dedication, intelligence, and hard work, and I want to help them grow into the best versions of themselves, both personally and professionally.
Education
- BS Business Administration
- UC Berkeley