Masonry Magazine May 2001 Page. 12
CONTRACTOR TO CONTRACTOR
A Member's Perspective
Contractor to Contractor is submitted to bring contractors closer together. By sharing thoughts and ideas, mason contractors will find that we all have common bonds and can benefit by sharing with each other. Contractors featured in this column are all members of the MCAA and vary in size, type of masonry performed, and operations style. The purpose of the column is to bring out the common problems, concerns, and positive experiences in the industry. If you would like more information about having your company featured, please contact Jeff Buczkiewicz at 1-800-536-2225.
What is your biggest challenge that you face as a mason contractor?
The challenge of growing and expanding to a larger corporation, and continuing to find the necessary qualified personnel to do so successfully. Such a challenge includes facing the fact of giving up control and allocating duties to various skilled personnel. I am successful when the people who work with us have similar goals for a job well done.
If I could change one thing about the industry it would be...
I would change the public's perception of this field. A field such as masonry construction is often looked down upon. Many have preconceptions that this is a field for the unskilled when, in fact, it involves very technically skilled workers. I would hope to re-establish the long overdue respect of my field. Masonry is not just a job, but for some, a trade, a future, something of which to be proud.
What do you like most about being a contractor in the masonry industry?
I love what we create. We are building monuments to last a lifetime. Also, I'm carrying on my father's trade. The various types of masonry construction our company can do keeps our work exciting. We do concrete footings, poured and placed concrete walls, slab on grade, elevated decks, block, brick, stone, glass block, fireplaces and precast concrete. In addition, this industry has enabled me to provide well for my family and I enjoy interacting and making friendships with my customers and colleagues.
What project are you most proud of?
The project I am most proud of is the R. C. P. Block and Brick building in Lemon Grove, CA. This was not our largest job, but it was quite a compliment to be chosen to build the corporate headquarters of the leading block manufacturer in San Diego County. Our material involved in this project included:
• Split Face Block
• Ground Face Block
• Glass Block (installed by Horace Ludwig Masonry)
We were very honored to be given this opportunity.
The most innovative thing about my company is ...
Utilizing current equipment technologies has maximized productivity and created a less labor-intensive environment which increases employee creativity. We are one of the first to use the adjustable scaffolding in the San Diego area. After attending the MCAA Masonry Showcase we saw the benefits of this type of scaffolding system. Our employees appreciate our efforts to make their jobs easier. Sharing new ideas and information
COMPANY: Williams & Sons Masonry, Inc.
LOCATION: 8531-A Wintergardens Blvd.
Lakeside, CA 92040-5412
(619) 443-1751
Fax (619) 443-0314
email: wsminc@adnc.com
SALES VOLUME: 1 to 5 Million
EMPLOYEES: 50
YEARS IN
BUSINESS: 20
R. C. P. Block and Brick building in Lemon Grove, CA.