34-year-old mason Jacob Ramirez of Ranch Masonry, Houston, TX, made the tough decision to enter the workforce instead of going to college, a decision he doesn’t regret. “This has helped me learn the trade and be hard working. I enjoy my job and my place as a leader in Ranch Masonry. I make a great living for my family and don’t have to worry about student loans,” he said. “This competition that SPEC MIX puts together is great because it promotes the masonry industry as a sustainable trade and encourages the younger generation to see it as a potential and satisfying career.”

Ranch Masonry has a rich history with the SPEC MIX BRICKLAYER 500, who allows their employees to use their facilities and material to practice for competitions. 2018 World Champion David Chavez is also with Ranch, coaches Ramirez, and helps him avoid any unnecessary mistakes.

Married with three boys, Ramirez enjoys his family time when he isn’t working. He also enjoys working out, which helps give him the energy he needs to keep with his sons.

If Ramirez wins in 2020, he plans to take his family out to a nice dinner and a show, and the get ready for a long drive back to Houston, with his brand new Ford F250 4×4 truck.