MASONRY STRONG Podcast Episode 6 Recap: Phil & Donnie Williams, DRP Masonry

Words: Justin Stengel

On this episode, the MCAA had the pleasure of chatting with Phil and Donnie Williams, two brothers with deep roots in the masonry industry. Join us as we share their story, learn from their experiences, and explore how the masonry world has evolved over the years. 

Family Ties and Beginnings
Phil and Donnie are brothers, with an age difference of just under four years. But age never stopped them from sharing a close bond, both personally and professionally. 

Growing Up in Masonry
The brothers shared the fascinating fact that they are fourth-generation masons. Their story begins from their childhood, as they followed in the footsteps of their fathers, grandfathers, and before. They fondly recall a picture from their childhood—a young Donnie holding a trowel, poised to lay a brick, even if just for show. 

A Life at the Job Site
From an early age, Phil and Donnie explored the nooks and crannies of construction sites, sometimes resisting the call to work, preferring sports like football. But slowly they were influenced deeply by their family of hard-working bricklayers, like their "papaws" and grandpa. 

Early Lessons
Their journey began with some light chores—pushing wheelbarrows, mixing mud, and gradually learning the ropes. By 18, Donnie was already taking on leadership roles at job sites. Meanwhile, Phil took a detour through college before finding his calling back at the construction sites. 

Finding Their Passion
Masonry isn't just about bricks and mortar to Phil and Donnie. Rather, it's the craftsmanship and aesthetics that captivate them. For them, masonry is the face and beauty of a building, the focal point that everyone sees. 

"The exterior part of a building is the brick. Masonry is the aesthetics part. That's the only thing you really see." 

Their uncle Dennis played a crucial role in nurturing this passion by encouraging them to labor alongside veteran bricklayers. These early experiences shaped their desire and determination to excel in their craft. 

Innovations in the Masonry Industry
Reflecting on how much the industry has changed since their formative years, Phil and Donnie share insights on technological advancements. 

Tech and Management Innovations
From manual labor to advancements in project management, the landscape has shifted remarkably. The introduction of digital tools for estimating and tracking project progress in real-time from anywhere on the planet showcases a new era of construction management. 

Expanding Family Business: A New Chapter
DRP Masonry marked a turning point for Phil and Donnie as they ventured forth, realizing their own vision for the business. Initially, together with their father, they took over from Williams Brickworks and had ambitious dreams to expand. 

They pivoted toward taking on more projects, pushing the limits of what they inherited. As the business grew, tensions arose, particularly concerning old-school versus new-school business approaches. 

With time, Phil and Donnie bought out their father, embracing growth and modernizing their approach to business while respecting and leveraging his invaluable experience. They even rehired him nine months ago to lead one of their major projects with astounding success. 

Maintaining the Family Spirit
The Williams brothers pride themselves on a family-centric business ethos. Their work, deeply grounded in familial values, honors the craftsmanship passed down through generations. Despite the occasional difference in administrative approaches, their collective commitment to masonry and to each other remains unwavering. 

Handing Down the Torch
Today, Phil and Donnie are working with the next generation, introducing their sons into the business, ensuring that the family legacy continues. They are determined to perpetuate the tradition that has nurtured their family for generations.

MASONRY STRONG Podcast Episode 6 Recap: Phil & Donnie Williams, DRP Masonry

About: The MASONRY STRONG Podcast

High-Performance Masonry Units: Elevating Structural Integrity and Aesthetics

Building Tomorrow, Digitally: How Tech is Revolutionizing Masonry

MASONRY STRONG Podcast, Episode 28 Recap: Kendall Anderegg, President and CEO at Mutual Materials Company

Ensuring Safety in Scaffold Access and Transference