Steve was born and raised in Fresno, California. After graduating from Bullard High Steve spent six years building homes, roads and Marinas in the Central Valley, Sierra Nevada’s and Gulf Islands of British Columbia. After Steve graduated from Malaspina University in British Columbia and The University of Portland with his Bachelor of Finance and Bachelor of Business Administration respectively Steve became a Certified Public Accountant working for a Regional Accounting Firm in Portland Oregon. Steve began a career in financial services as an auditor working for PacifiCorp Financial Services. He then moved into Bank Acquisitions and Financial Reporting with First Interstate Bank and Wells Fargo Bank in both Portland, Oregon and Phoenix, Arizona. Afterward, Steve joined Bank One, working in Phoenix, Denver and Columbus, Ohio. Immediately prior to moving home to Fresno, Steve held the position of President of The Grange Bank in Columbus, Ohio.

Before becoming President and CEO of Murphy Bank in Fresno, Steve held the position of CEO of Suncrest Bank in Visalia. It was at Suncrest Bank where he worked since the 2016 merger with Security First Bank in Fresno. During his time at Security First Bank, he was the President and CEO while he helped them organize in 2005 and open in 2007. Steve has been married to his best friend Pat since 1981 and they have three grown children who continue living and working in the Fresno area. Steve and Pat reside in the Old Fig Garden neighborhood. Steve puts his building skills to work on a regular basis and he is active in his Christian Walk at both his church and the mission field. His love of Jesus and his building skills intersect to create his passion for Habitat for Humanity. Steve believes in the dignity of having a proper roof overhead. Bringing this dignity to our families through service in the name of Jesus Christ is a great testimony for followers of Christ.

Jose Platas is a dedicated individual known for his commitment to community service and education in the Central Valley. With over two decades of experience in facilities management, and a passion for giving back, Jose has deeply embedded himself within the Greater Fresno Area community. Raised in the heart of the Central Valley, he understands the importance of community and affordable housing—challenges in his upbringing were a frequent experience. Years of spending time in foster care and navigating through multiple homes fueled his dedication to affordable housing initiatives. This background gives him a unique perspective and deep-seated commitment to making a difference.

Jose’s professional journey began as a supervisor in the facilities department for Clovis Unified School District where he honed his skills in management and operations for 23 years. However, it was his involvement with Habitat for Humanity Greater Fresno Area that truly ignited his passion for service. Since 2017, Jose has been an integral part of the organization. He began as a volunteer on the electrical team and now oversees a significant partnership between Habitat Greater Fresno Area and Fresno City College!

His degrees in electrical systems technology and business management are invaluable in his role as an educator. He currently teaches at Fresno City College where he guides the next generation of electrical professionals. These students study through the college’s hands-on programs and contribute to the construction of new Habitat homes.

Beyond his professional and volunteer commitments, Jose loves the time he spends traveling with his family. He has celebrated 25 years of marriage and is the proud father of a son and daughter. Exploring new places and creating lasting memories together is a cherished pastime for him.

He hopes his impact extends far beyond the Central Valley to inspire others to join the mission of creating thriving, sustainable communities for everyone.