A2Z Builder & Design

Cris Zepeda: Living the American Dream Since 1990
I came to the United States in 1990 in search of the American Dream. It has been my home ever since. Over the years, I have learned that achieving the American Dream takes hard work, determination, and perseverance—but anything is possible if you never give up.
My first eight years were the most challenging. I worked in restaurants, where I not only learned the business but also built lifelong friendships. I will always be grateful to the restaurant owners who believed in me and gave me opportunities, including Jin Yet, the owners of Thai restaurants, Clyde, Bennedetto, and many others. Their support, guidance, and friendship helped shape the person I am today.
One of the biggest milestones in my life was buying the restaurant where I had worked. Vito's Restaurant holds a special place in my heart. It is where I built my career in the restaurant industry, where I became the owner for many successful years, and where I met my wife. Vito's will always be an important part of my life and my story.
After many rewarding years in the restaurant business, I decided it was time for a new career. I began working in facility engineering, a decision that changed my life. It gave me the opportunity to grow professionally and eventually move to Cupertino. Once again, I was fortunate to have coworkers and mentors who were willing to teach, encourage, and support me. Thanks to their guidance, I became a Building Mechanical Engineer.
As my experience grew, I decided to take another leap and become an independent contractor. I started by providing engineering services for building owners, including Sunhill Corporation and NPH Corporation. They gave me the opportunity to prove myself, build my reputation, and continue growing professionally.
That success inspired me to open my own company, C&E. Later, we launched A2Z Builders, which is now managed by my son. Today, where I continue doing what WE love.
Beyond my career, my greatest achievement is my family. My three children—Angel, Jocelyn, and Crystal—were all born here in San Jose, California. Watching them grow up here has been one of the greatest blessings of my life and a reminder of why I worked so hard to build a better future.
I truly love my career. Renovating homes, improving buildings, and helping clients bring their visions to life is more than a job—it's my passion. Every project is an opportunity to create something meaningful, build lasting relationships, and make a positive difference for my clients.
I am proud to call San Jose and the Bay Area my home. This community has given me countless opportunities, lifelong friendships, and the chance to build a life for my family. Looking back on my journey, I am grateful for every challenge, every opportunity, and every person who helped me along the way.
My story is proof that with hard work, integrity, faith, and determination, the American Dream is possible. I hope my journey inspires others to believe in themselves, work hard, and never stop chasing their dreams.