AquaTek Plumbing is backed by more than 60 dedicated professionals serving San Jose and the San Francisco Bay Area, including over 40 experienced plumbers and 20 support team members. Meet the leaders who keep our plumbing services and customer care running smoothly year after year.
Our Founder
James E. Shepherd, Founder
Jim started out in the Plumbing Industry in the late 70’s learning from a Master Plumber. He learned all aspects of the Uniform Plumbing Codes and their applications and went on the serve positions such as Senior Service Technician, Project Manager, and Service Manager for various companies. In 1982, he became the Co-Founder and Operator of AquaTek Plumbing, Inc. Jim was an expert in property inspections, large project bids, consultation and expert witness deposition(s) and court appearance(s). He specialized in large complex repiping, tenant improvements, new construction, remodels, sample procurement and liability assessments. Outside of work, Jim enjoyed his family, music, hunting, and was a Harley Davidson Enthusiast. He sadly passed in March 2025.
Management Team
Chris Johnson, President
Chris started out in plumbing at a family-owned business in the Tahoe Basin. There, Chris learned all aspects of plumbing and took that knowledge to the Silicon Valley in the late 1970’s. Chris worked for various companies in the Bay Area serving as a Service Technician, Journeyman Plumber and Service Manager. In 1982, he became the Co-Founder and Operator of AquaTek Plumbing, Inc. Chris specializes in service & repair, remodels, tenant improvements, and troubleshooting large complex issues. Chris is the proud father of three daughters and is a grandfather of four. He is a music and theatre sound technology enthusiast and he is an Instructor for motorcycle track racing.
Derrick Simons, Vice President
Derrick began plumbing in the mid 1980’s. Derrick worked for various companies, specializing in New Construction plumbing until 1991, when he began working for AquaTek Plumbing, Inc. He began as a Repiper, became a Crew Lead, The Repipe Manager, and eventually became the General Manager for AquaTek. As General Manager, Derrick monitors large repipe projects and delegates load to repipe crew leads to ensure timely completion and smooth running jobs. He monitors Service Department functionality on a high level and provides guidance in crisis or problem situations. Derrick is a valued asset to AquaTek and is well-respected among employees, peers and customers. Outside of work, Derrick enjoys family, muscle and nostalgia cars and go-cart racing.
Paul Koch, Service Manager
Paul began his plumbing career in 1989 as an apprentice and has built an impressive 38 years of plumbing experience. Throughout his career, he has worked his way up through the industry, gaining extensive hands-on experience as well as leadership and management skills. Paul has managed and led plumbing crews while working on a wide range of projects, including custom homes, fire restoration projects, service repairs, and general plumbing installations. His broad experience has given him a strong understanding of both the technical and operational sides of the plumbing industry. In 2020, Paul joined Aquatek Plumbing, where he currently serves as our Service Manager. In this role, he oversees service operations, supports our technicians, works with customers and management, and helps ensure that plumbing issues are addressed efficiently and professionally. With decades of industry experience and a strong commitment to quality service, Paul brings valuable knowledge, leadership, and expertise to the Aquatek Plumbing team.
Norbert Fulop, Project Manager
Norbert was introduced to the plumbing industry at the age of seven, working side by side with his father and developing a passion for the trade from an early age. After graduating from high school, Norbert turned that passion into a full-time career and has continued to build his expertise in the plumbing industry ever since. Norbert joined Aquatek Plumbing in 2001, where he quickly learned the ins and outs of the company’s operations while developing his expertise as a repipe specialist. Throughout his career, he has worked on a wide variety of projects, including high-rise buildings, multifamily properties, commercial buildings, and residential properties. With more than 28 years of plumbing experience, Norbert brings extensive technical knowledge, field experience, and leadership to every project. Since 2020, he has served as Aquatek Plumbing’s Project Manager, overseeing projects from start to finish and helping ensure they are completed efficiently, professionally, and to the highest standards.
Heather Wood, Director of Business Development
Heather joined Aquatek Plumbing in 2025, bringing with her a strong background in business ownership, client relations, and leadership. Prior to joining Aquatek, Heather spent 25 years building and operating her own childcare business, where she developed extensive experience in managing day-to-day operations, building lasting client relationships, and creating a successful and professional business environment. Heather’s passion for client relations, business growth, and long-term success naturally aligns with the role she has taken on at Aquatek Plumbing. Her experience as a business owner has given her a unique perspective on the importance of customer satisfaction, strong communication, organization, and operational efficiency. Known for her professionalism, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence, Heather brings valuable skills to the Aquatek team. Her focus is on supporting the company’s continued growth and success while helping ensure that both clients and employees receive the level of service and attention they deserve.
