My Background
I was born and raised in San Jose, CA. With a passion for quality craftsmanship and innovation, I began my roofing career in 2014 at just 19 years old.
After gaining foundational experience, I advanced my skills through a rigorous apprenticeship program at a trade school, earning my certification as a Journeyman roofer in 2017. Committed to staying ahead in the industry, I pursued further education at Stanford University’s prestigious Center for Integrated Facility Engineering (CIFE), specializing in Virtual Design and Construction (VDC).
In early 2021, I obtained my contracting license and founded Aptitude Roofing later that year. Backed by over a decade of experience and cutting-edge expertise, I am dedicated to delivering innovative, reliable, and high-quality roofing solutions to my community.
Why Aptitude?
The name "Aptitude Roofing" reflects more than just a commitment to excellence—it’s a nod to the natural talent and dedication that shaped the company’s foundation. From a young age, Manuel Lara had a knack for crafts and projects, quickly mastering new skills and excelling in hands-on work.
As an apprentice, Manuel’s aptitude shone through as he consistently exceeded expectations, earning the trust of his supervisors and taking on journeyman-level responsibilities with confidence. This name represents not only his journey but also the skill, reliability, and craftsmanship that customers can expect with every project.