MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 11 Recap: Jameel Ervin, President at WBF Construction

Words: Justin Stengel

On this episode of the MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Jameel Ervin joins the set to dive into his experience in the masonry industry, how he got to where he is now, and what it was like growing up in Chicago.

From the Ground Up: Jameel's Introduction to Masonry

Jameel's journey into the world of masonry began unexpectedly during his teenage years. His mother married a bricklayer, immersing him into a realm that would come to define his career.

While his peers spent their summers playing basketball, Jameel found himself on construction sites, learning the ropes quite literally from the ground up. This early exposure endowed him with a unique set of skills and a work ethic that encouraged perseverance even through life’s challenges.

Shaping Resilience Through Military Service

Jameel's path also led him to serve in the military, specifically in the 82nd Airborne Division. Reflecting on this period, he shared.

His military service not only instilled discipline but also provided him with leadership qualities that would later prove invaluable in his career. The demanding readiness, being battle-ready within 18 hours, showed him the significance of being prepared and adaptable.

Bouncing Back from Setbacks

Jameel's career in masonry was not devoid of setbacks. After his time in the military, he tried his hand at sales, which he humorously admits was not his forte.

This phase allowed him to weave back into the industry he subconsciously felt a calling towards, albeit as a laborer. But even within masonry, challenges abounded, like the time he faced significant financial pressure and had to start over.

Despite the adversities, Jameel's resilience shone through. He embraced the role of a bricklaying apprentice even when it meant taking a pay cut. The experience and skills he garnered as an apprentice laid a foundation that eventually led him to craft a successful business in masonry.

Embracing Craftsmanship

As time passed, Jameel advanced from being a laborer to becoming a craftsman.

By 2011, he had founded his own company, a testament to his evolution and commitment to his trade. The journey from apprentice to business owner underscores the power of passion aligned with purpose.

Passion for Building: Seeing Potential in Every Project

One of the most captivating aspects of Jameel’s story is his deep appreciation for the process of creation in masonry. He finds tremendous gratification in seeing a project rise from nothing to something.

This passion is evidently a driving factor that not only excites him but also continually motivates him to push boundaries in an industry that he loves.

The Art of the Comeback

For Jameel, the essence of a successful comeback lies in unwavering belief and readiness to take risks.

When faced with financial struggles and having his house in foreclosure, Jameel was determined not to succumb to adversity. Instead of giving in, he put together resources to sow seeds for a better future.

These actions were acts of foresight rather than desperation, as they were directed towards building a future Jameel envisioned, thus epitomizing the art of rebounding stronger.

Building Lifelong Connections

A turning point in Jameel’s journey was his wife’s encouragement to build relationships within the industry. This led him to participate in gatherings such as MCAA events and form relationships that were instrumental in his growth.

He found mentors who guided him and offered invaluable advice that aided in not only personal growth but also the success of his business.

A Glimpse into Jameel's Personal Life

When he's not busy with masonry, Jameel enjoys spending time with his family, shooting hoops, and exploring the world.

Traveling not only allows him to unwind but also serves as a source of inspiration, appreciating the diversity in architectural marvels worldwide.

The Essence of "Masonry Strong"

For Jameell, being "Masonry Strong" is about legacy and the pride that comes with exceptional craftsmanship.

This philosophy is more than an expression; it is a commitment to upholding the values and standards of those who tread the path before him.

______________

Tune in to listen to the MASONRY STRONG Podcast every Thursday on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.


About: The MASONRY STRONG Podcast
How It’s Made: Clay Brick
August 2025

Going back to around 7000 B.C., when the first bricks were made from a combination of mud and straw (highlighted because mud and straw are not part of the defined parameters of masonry) and then dried in the desert sun, the general process of how brick is

Mat Tramel
Technical Talks
Read More
The Evolution of Women in Masonry
August 2025

The masonry industry was created by gathering common materials and utilizing these materials with convention. Historically, men have been at the forefront of this ancient craft, finding ways to create structures with stone, brick, and concrete units. The

Cassie Mejia
Industry News
Read More
Achieving Realistic Looks with Manufactured Materials: Elevating Aesthetics in Modern Masonry Projects
August 2025

In the evolving landscape of masonry design and construction, contractors are increasingly called upon to marry tradition with innovation. Homeowners, architects, and developers demand materials that not only perform well but also look indistinguishably a

Rob McKay
Technical Talks
Read More
STABILA Introduces Innovative New Products for Fall Launch
August 2025

STABILA, a trusted name synonymous with precision, durability, and quality, is excited to announce the launch of several innovative products this fall. The lineup features the compact and versatile LAX320G laser level and the advanced LD530 Laser Distance

Rich Morse
MAP Partner
Read More