5 on 5 with Veazey Enterprises

MCAA: Tell us about the history of your company.

David Veazey: Veazey Enterprises, Inc. was established in 1998 and is a four-generation family business. It was established in 1964 as Veazey Corporation by G. W. Veazey and re-established in 1998 as Veazey Enterprises, Inc. after the death of G.W. Veazey. Both firms have delivered many successful projects in the Houston and surrounding areas. Most of our work is based on a competitive bid process. Projects include hospitals, colleges, office buildings and churches. We are involved in many aspects of masonry including estate homes, historic restorations, office property maintenance of stone and granite.

Many of our projects can be viewed on our website.

MCAA: What do you think has been the key to your company’s success?

David Veazey

Veazey: A number of items have attributed to our success:

1. Performing various masonry type projects has allowed us to have a continual work flow, when new construction slows.
2. A key group of employees who have experience and pride in their work.
3. Not taking on more work that our work force can handle.
4. Assigning the right foreman and crew to man each project.
5. Working as a team with the general contractors on projects.

MCAA: What advice would you offer a budding mason contractor?

Veazey: Know the size and scope of what your foreman and his crew can handle, and don’t give up on quality for profit. Stay hands on and keep communications with all involved on each project - don’t rely on others to tell you everything.

Know as much about the general contractor as you possibly can. I’ve learned to go with my gut feelings. Don’t expect people to always do what they say. This includes your own employees and companies you work for.

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MCAA: What do you feel is the masonry industry’s biggest challenge in the future?

Veazey: Having qualified masons to perform the work. The industry demographics have changed and many masons view it more as a job than a skill or craft. Also, finding employees in safety, estimating, project management, and superintendents that actually have knowledge in the masonry industry. Many coming out of college are based in general construction knowledge, but lack the experience in actual masonry knowledge. There are many general contractors in our area now that classify themselves as construction managers; therefore, they no longer provide experienced field personnel.

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MCAA: What is your favorite aspect of being a member of the MCAA?

Veazey: The information that the MCAA provides including keeping me informed on safety, new products, and insight into ways that masonry is changing to be more profitable without sacrificing quality.

Sharing the knowledge together through the years of experience on all types of masonry. I know I can call a member and get helpful advice on any questions relating to our business. The masonry contractors who are involved in the MCAA all work towards the same goals.