Get to Know Some of Our Shop Team
At Desert Sky Surfaces, the heart of our operation lies in the hands of our skilled shop team. These are the folks who take raw stone and transform it into the stunning countertops that grace your homes and businesses. But there’s more to these craftsmen than their impressive skills. They bring a wealth of experience, unique backgrounds, and a deep passion for what they do.
In this series, we’re pulling back the curtain to introduce you to the dedicated individuals who make it all happen behind the scenes. From the shop manager to the assistant manager, and every hardworking member in between, you’ll get a glimpse into the lives, skills, and stories that shape the work we do at Desert Sky Surfaces.
These are the hands that build your countertops, the minds that ensure precision, and the hearts that pour care into every project. Let’s meet the team that makes your dream surfaces a reality!
Jake – Shop Manager
Years with the Company: 7
Background: Before joining our team, Jake honed his skills in various trades. From laying tile to building manholes and framing houses, he’s had a hand in it all. When Desert Sky Surfaces needed someone in the shop, Jake, a long-time family friend, was an obvious choice. He was looking for a change, and we were thrilled to bring him on board. Jake’s transition into the world of stone countertops was seamless. He quickly learned the ins and outs of the trade, mastering everything from start to finish in the creation of beautiful countertops. His dedication, quick learning, and passion for the craft didn’t go unnoticed, leading him to become our shop manager.
Role and Responsibilities: Jake, brings years of hands-on experience to his role. Before stepping into management, he worked as the saw operator, mastering every aspect of fabrication. His expertise and leadership have earned him the respect of the entire team. When it comes to any part of the fabrication process, Jake knows exactly what he’s doing, ensuring the highest quality in every project.
Fun Facts: Jake is a real guy’s guy with a heart of gold. Jake loves spending time in the great outdoors, especially when it comes to camping. His generosity and kindness extend beyond his work life—Jake and his wife have opened their hearts and home to foster children, adopting two of their three daughters. They also have a son, and together, they are proud grandparents to five grandchildren. Jake’s story is a testament to hard work, family values, and the importance of having a big heart. We’re lucky to have him as a key part of our Desert Sky Surfaces family!
Trey – Shop Assistant Manager
Years with the Company: 11
Background: Before Trey started in the world of countertops, he spent his days (and nights) behind the bar as a bartender. His ability to connect with people, combined with his knack for working with his hands, made him a natural fit for the hospitality industry. In 2007, Trey took his skills to the next level by joining Desert Sky Surfaces, a family-owned business managed by his father-in-law and sister-in-law. This transition was more than just a career move; it was a chance to be part of something personal and meaningful. Working alongside his family, Trey has been laminating and fabricating stone countertops, perfecting the art that has become his true passion. What Trey loves most about his work is the hands-on nature of the job. For him, it is not just about creating a countertop; it’s about the artistry involved in shaping raw materials into beautiful, functional surfaces. Each countertop that comes out of the shop is a testament to Trey’s dedication and craftsmanship, reflecting the pride he takes in his work.
Role and Responsibilities: Trey specializes in laminate work and has recently expanded his skills to include cutting sink holes. His willingness to pitch in wherever needed has made him an invaluable asset to the team, earning him the title of Jake’s right-hand man. Trey also handles unloading and storing materials and assists with tracking inventory to ensure the purchaser has everything they need. His versatility and dedication make him a key player in the shop’s success.
Fun Facts: When he’s not at work, Trey’s interests extend beyond the workshop. A huge fan of WWE and UFC, Trey brings the same enthusiasm to watching matches as he does to his work. His athletic background is impressive too—he played football, did track, and wrestled at Mesa High and Taylor Junior High right here in Mesa. Trey also embraces the joys and challenges of life at home, where he’s surrounded by the women who mean the world to him—his wife and three daughters. In a house full of energy and love, Trey balances his roles as a craftsman and a devoted family man with equal passion and dedication.
Justin – Polisher
Years with the Company: 3
Background: Justin joined our shop team three years ago, right after high school. He was introduced to the opportunity by Jake, our Shop Manager, and a long-time family friend. Justin quickly took to polishing, mastering the techniques that bring out the natural beauty in each countertop.
Role and Responsibilities: As our lead polisher, Justin takes on the crucial task of ensuring each countertop shines to perfection. What makes his work even more impressive is that he polishes entirely by hand, using only hand tools—no machines involved, just hard labor and craftsmanship. Beyond his own work, Justin plays a key role in training new employees, sharing his expertise and answering any questions they might have. His dedication, precision, and willingness to help others make him a valued member of the Desert Sky Surfaces family.
Fun Facts: When he’s not perfecting countertops, Justin loves riding motorcycles and putting them in shows. He’s even won competitions for his rides! On his days off, you can often find him spending time with family and friends or hitting the gym to keep up his fitness.
David – Machine Operator
Years with the Company: 4
Background: David has been an essential part of the shop team for nearly four years, joining us through a long-time family friend. Before his time here, David worked in retail and large corporation management, but he quickly found his niche as our machine operator. He loves the pace of the job, the quality of work we produce, and the consistent hours we provide. He loves that gets to learn something new and that there’s new challenges every day.
Role and Responsibilities: As our machine operator, he ensures that the machine runs smoothly at all times and that the edges of our countertops are finished to perfection. David’s versatility shines through as he fills in wherever needed, thanks to his ability to handle most positions in the shop. He also helps unload materials and occasionally assists with installations at job sites. His role is crucial in keeping our operations running efficiently and ensuring the highest quality of work.
Fun Facts: David’s life has been full of interesting stories. The only bone he’s ever broken was his skull, and it happened before his first birthday! He also used to raise and sell dogs as part of a family business. But above all, his favorite person in the whole world is his beautiful 6-year-old daughter.
