THE CURIOSITY THAT LEADS TO A LIFETIME CAREER

INTERVIEW WITH HENRY MONTEMAYOR, PRESIDENT OF TEJANO CONSTRUCTION, INC.

How was it growing up for you?

HM: I grew up in a large family of eight kids, so we learned very early we all had to work to help out. One of my fond- est memories was Christmas when we would go to Mexico every year for a week to visit my Grandparents.

What were your core family values?

HM: Our core family values are to look out for others, spend time with family, and be responsible and honest.

What let you into construction and cre- ating Tejano Construction?

HM: When I was young, it was common for me to have as many as three jobs. After high school, one of my jobs was at a gas station, and one of our regular customers was a union bricklayer. He asked me if I'd be interested in learning a trade? Of course, this piqued my curiosity, so I went in for an interview with Davis Masonry and got hired. I joined the union appren- ticeship program, which meant working 8-hour days and going to school two nights a week. After one year, I was help- ing run jobs. It took me three years to be- come a journeyman bricklayer. Davis Ma- sonry is where I met my business partner, Dwight Davis. He was the estimator. After working for Davis Masonry for 16 years, they closed the doors, and we all went our separate ways. Still, I knew I wanted to open my own business, so I reached out to Dwight Davis. We agreed to open Tejano Construction, Inc. in August 1994. We build commercial masonry construction.

What has been your biggest challenge, and how did you face it?

HM: My role was to oversee the job sites, which meant ensuring we had skilled, reliable help and producing a quality product – which wasn’t always easy.

Henry Montemayor, President Tejano Construction, Inc.

We would hire guys, they would show up ready to work, and after a few days, they would quit because the work was too hard. I knew if I found good help, I needed to hang onto them and hope that we kept enough work going to keep them busy. The main issue we’re facing today is the lack of workforce.

What are your plans for Tejano Con- struction, Inc.?

HM: We are getting older and closer to retirement. My partner Dwight Davis retired last year, and I’m pushing re- tirement myself but not quite ready to give it all up. I plan to downsize a little in the size of jobs we’re doing but con- tinue to build projects that will stand the test of time.

What advice would you give to young professionals going into construction?

HM: My suggestion is to learn a trade, which will allow you to work and learn on the job instead of going to college for four years and graduating with a huge debt. The trade industry is hurting right now. Due to the lack of workforce, we need high school graduates to go to trade schools and become an apprentice. In 3-4 years, you're a journeyman making a decent living and able to provide a good life for your family.