Angelica (Angie) Gonzalez
President, J.R.’s Plumbing
What do you love most about your work?
At J.R.’s Plumbing, we’ve dedicated many service hours to conservation efforts and to helping low-income families and elderly homeowners restore water and sewer service in their homes. Knowing that we’re able to make that kind of difference in our community is incredibly rewarding and personally fulfilling for me.
What do you do to relax outside of work?
I wouldn’t necessarily call it relaxing, but spending time with my grandbabies is always the most fun. Family time is truly the best time for me. We’re very close-knit, and we don’t enjoy being apart—distance and space are definitely not our favorite when it comes to family.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I may not fit the traditional “plumber” image, so owning a plumbing company often surprises people—in the best way. There’s a lot of excitement around seeing a woman-owned business in this industry, and I’m proud that we can use our platform to support and advocate for other small, minority-owned businesses.
Who has influenced you the most in your life or career?
Ignacio Villarreal Jr., RMP and previous owner of J.R.’s Plumbing, has been one of my greatest inspirations. He instilled in me valuable business sense, lessons, and knowledge—but most importantly, he believed in me. For the past 20 years, he has supported and backed me 200%. When he sold me the business, he entrusted me with continuing his legacy, and that gave me all the inspiration I needed to carry it forward with pride.
What’s your favorite thing to do for fun in San Antonio?
San Antonio is incredibly diverse and full of energy. I enjoy spending time downtown, exploring new eateries and soaking in the city’s rich culinary culture. Some of the best friendships and memories are made around the table, sharing good food and great company.
What career path led you to where you are today?
There wasn’t a defined career path—just pure destiny. I was a stay-at-home mom looking for a bit of adult interaction, and my two-year-old daughter needed kids her age, so I went out looking for a job and found J.R.’s Plumbing. That was nearly 20 years ago. Over time, my passion for the industry and for small business grew as I became more involved in organizations like PHCC San Antonio, where I now serve as President (2025–2026), and the Hispanic Contractors Association de San Antonio, where I will serve as President (2026–2027). These organizations focus on education, building connections, and creating opportunities for small, minority-, veteran-, and women-owned businesses, while also strengthening the workforce across the construction industry.
What is it like to work in a male-dominated industry?
It was intimidating at first, but I quickly realized that the men in this industry aren’t competition—they’re a valuable source of knowledge. Many have been willing to lend a hand and share their experiences. Over time, I’ve seen this male-dominated industry begin to truly embrace the skill, determination, and perspective that women bring to the table.
J.R.’s Plumbing
1039 Fresno, San Antonio, TX 78201 | 731-8433 | www.jrsplumbing.net
