AIS Heating & Air Conditioning

Daniel Sojkic: A Paternal Partnership

By James Florence, Diamond Certified Resource Reporter

FREMONT — After working with his father throughout his upbringing, Daniel Sojkic left home to pursue a career as an HVAC technician, but as it turns out, that wasn’t the end of their professional partnership. “My father was in construction and I used to work for him during the summer and winter breaks from school,” he remembers. “As I approached high school graduation, the heating and air conditioning industry caught my eye, so I decided to go to technical school. After I completed my HVAC training program, I went to work for a local company, and after gaining a few years’ experience, I started my own business in 2008. Around the same time, my dad was looking to retire from the construction business, so he joined me and we’ve been a solid team ever since.”

Today, as owner of AIS Heating & Air Conditioning, Daniel says his favorite part of his job is saving the day. “I like coming to the rescue when a customer’s heating or air conditioning goes out. No one likes being uncomfortable in their home, so when I’m able to restore that for someone, it always puts a smile on their face.”

Originally from Bosnia, Daniel came to the United States at the age of 11. Today, he lives in Dublin with his wife, Selma, and their daughter, Lana. When asked his favorite part about life in the Bay Area, he cites the pervasive variety. “I really like all the different cultures and ethnicities that converge in the Bay Area. It makes it a very rich and interesting place to live.”

Outside of work, Daniel engages in a variety of pastimes, from outdoor activities to hanging out at home. “I like to get out and explore nature,” he affirms. “Whenever I get the chance, I like to go fishing with my dad or spend a weekend in the mountains with my family. I also like watching the Giants, Warriors and 49ers. Other than that, it’s just spending time with my family and keeping busy around the house.”

In his regard to his professional career, Daniel espouses the importance of integrity. “You have to be honest with your clients and deliver what you promise,” he asserts. “When we meet with a new client, we lay everything out so there are no surprises. If something unexpected does come up, we take full responsibility, because I don’t think it’s fair to make the customer pay extra for something we should’ve caught.”

When asked the first thing he’d do if he were to retire tomorrow, Daniel says he would head to a higher elevation. “I would definitely leave this busy life and move up to the mountains, where I could live at a peaceful, slower pace and enjoy nature.”

Ask Me Anything!

Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Claim Jumper in Fremont.

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A: Alaska. I went there last year on a fishing trip and it was awesome, so I plan to return the next chance I get.

Q: What’s the best gift you’ve ever received?
A: My daughter.

Q: What’s your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?
A: Pancakes with eggs and sausage—I can never have enough!