Our Team
THOMAS Russell Lancaster III
I really enjoying working with concrete, it’s not just a job, but a profession I chose because I get up every morning excited to work with new contractors, designers, architects, and clients. What I really like is showing up on installation day and seeing how surprised people are because as most people say, “I never thought concrete could look so good!”
How did I get into concrete? While working on our new home I decided to make my own concrete counters, and quickly realized that it was more complicated and involved than I had imagined. That’s initially what drew me in, but after finishing our counters, I attended the Concrete Countertop Institute in Raleigh, North Carolina and was officially “hooked”.
To be honest, I’m a perfectionist, and can be a bit O.C.D. on involved jobs. You wouldn’t know that I work with my wife because we both are so intense and only focus on the job at hand. It’s not until we’ve installed that people get to see us lighten up and smile. We aren’t concrete zombies, it’s just that we don’t have a sense of relief until the job is installed and the owners are happy. I am always 110% invested in every project and pay very close attention to each detail of the process. I feel, for this reason we have not had an unhappy client yet. I guarantee my work for a year after the install and email or call my clients a few weeks after-wards to make sure they are still loving their counters or furniture.
Prior eduction before pursuing a career as a concrete artisan:
Associates in Integrated Digital Image Communications from Texas State Technical College
Bachelors in Business Administration from Tarleton State University
When the light came on, I attended:
The Concrete Countertop Institute in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Continued Education:
Summer 2024 - Hero’s Quest III, SC Fabrication - Napa, California, Advanced mold making, Ramcrete techniques, Advanced mix designs and engineering
BELLE C. pena
Often when I sleep, I dream of concrete projects, and when I meditate, creative concrete ideas invade my mind. I have to admit, I had a ploy to get Thomas to share my love for concrete long before he knew what hit him. Seems like it was about 12 years ago when I saw what industry leaders at that time were doing with concrete and knew someday I’d get a chance.
I had to build my endurance and strength in order to work with Thomas. When I began my apprenticeship with him I quickly realized that he was going to be the hardest “boss” I’ve ever had. However, after finishing a few jobs together he realized I had some natural talent, and could take over certain processing stages.
My favorite part of the job is showing up to the site for the first time and seeing people’s reactions when they see a “woman” in construction and especially one who’s building concrete counter tops and furniture. I know most people that look at me think I don’t look like the type who’s into manual labor. All I can say is, “I’m stronger than I look and tough enough to handle working with Thomas which is what it takes!” I really love being in this industry and feel fortunate to have had such great people to collaborate with and wonderful clients.
My education includes:
Bachelors in Business Administration from Tarleton State University
Masters in Business Administration from Sul Ross State University *Delta Mu Delta
Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults from the University of Cambridge
Concrete related education:
Apprentice at MARFA Cement Works, hopefully one day I’ll take over the company!
Marfa Cement Works team during a commercial installation.