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Galicia and his partner, Brian Wicklund, offer cost-effective plumbing contracting to property managers, homeowners, government agencies and general contractors. As one of only three certified green plumbing companies in San Diego County, Galicia contributes their water-savings technology as part of their success, along with offering customers additional value with in-depth reporting of work performed and competitive rates.
It also helps that they recognize who is boss.
“Don’t fool yourself about being ‘your own boss.’ Your customers are your boss, and if you don’t believe that, get out of business,” he advises.
Galicia also suggested that other vetrepreneurs use the free resources such as the Small Business Development Centers and Procurement Technical Assistance Centers to guide them through the steps of owning a new business.
“Don’t waste your money with consultants,” he says.
The attention to the customers’ needs and willingness to put in long days has paid off for Galicia. Not only has the business grown, but also it is work he enjoys.
“We truly love what we do,” he says.
Alex Galicia
Age: 44
Military Service: U.S. Navy, 1985 to 1989; Army National Guard, 1997 to present, Major (O-4)
What did you do in the military (military occupation)? Transportation/Logistics Officer
Significant military achievements/experience: “I led convoys around Iraq for 15 months, 4.5 million cargo ton miles with 100 percent soldier accountability. Everyone who came in with me came home in one piece.”
What were your goals when you separated from the service? To go to college. Education: B.A. in Linguistics from the University of California, and M.A. in Transportation/Logistics from American Military University.
Fondest memory of the military? NAVY – 1986, Waking up while moored directly across from the USS Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
BPI Plumbing
Location/headquarters: Bonita, CA
Any additional sites/facilities: Chula Vista, Calif.
Number of employees: 22
Military/Veteran Employees: 5
Year founded: 1976 – Galicia became owner in 2006
2011 revenues: $1.1 million
www.bpiplumbing.com
