Masonry Magazine April 2004 Page. 14
Contractor
to Contractor
MCAA member contractors respond to the industry issues of the day.
Linn Thomas
Tectonic Systems, Inc.
Tectonic Systems, Inc.
Indianapolis, Ind.
Anyone who knows or has spoken to him would agree that "enthusiasm for the trade" would be one of the many fair characterizations for Linn Thomas, Owner of Tectonic Systems, Inc. It's the least you can say about someone who has designed a monorail system out of I-beams to get a job completed when others wouldn't have bid the job to begin with. We were able to speak with Thomas about the hard work that he's done in the past and present, his business style and his strong belief in the strength of the masonry Industry.
Masonry: What do you think has been the key to Tectonic's growth and success over the years?
Thomas: I believe that my faith in and dependence on God to direct my business would be key to our success. Secondary would be our goal of consistently combining excellent customer service with exceptional workmanship. We work very hard not only to complete quality work on projects, but also to have quality relationships with the architects, owners, general contractors and the other trades.
Masonry: Linn, you started out your career with Turner Construction. How did working and learning the trade with this large company help you with your own business now?
Thomas: It gave me the opportunity to learn to manage large projects. In particular, how to coordinate with other trades, how to manage materials and equipment on a project, as well as how to position and manage the labor to realize the best production potential. In the office, I learned to take-off plans and estimate job costs. I learned by working with a variety of people in the masonry industry who were generous with their knowledge, patient with my mistakes, and most of all, willing to give me a chance. Although, I will say that I had to show ability, initiative, enthusiasm and be willing to accept instruction. If I see those qualities in someone else, I will also be willing to do the same for them.
Masonry: Tectonic has worked on masonry projects across the U.S. What are some things you have learned over the years from being a traveling mason contractor?
Thomas: If you learn your trade and become a craftsman, you can work anywhere. Good brickwork doesn't change from region to region, but every job is different. Every project presents a new set of people and circumstances from which to learn and has something to teach, even if it's a lesson you don't want to repeat.
Masonry: Many of your current projects incorporate several different types of masonry, such as varieties of brick, block, stone and cast stone materials. Do you think that owners and architects are starting to realize the different masonry materials available and being more creative with them?
Thomas: Yes, I think the manufacturers and suppliers are marketing their products more aggressively, and more owners and architects are realizing how combining materials can enhance their projects. I think we are going to see architects become increasingly more creative with the variety of masonry materials available to them.