Broaden Your Skills - Build Your Future

One of the biggest mistakes I see young guys make in this trade is thinking they’ve “got it all down” after they learn how to finish a driveway or pour a slab. Don’t get me wrong—being able to lay a flat pad and edge a clean sidewalk is important. But if that’s all you know? You’re leaving a lot of opportunity on the table.

Be More Than a One-Trick Trowel

When I first started, I stuck to flatwork. It was familiar, fast, and there was always a demand. But as the years went on, I began exploring different techniques—stamped concrete, decorative overlays, vertical carving, countertops, acid staining, waterproofing systems, and even specialty coatings.

Every new skill I picked up opened another door: new clients, higher-paying jobs, and more creative satisfaction.

If you want to charge more, win better projects, and stand out from the competition, you’ve got to know more.

Expand Your Toolbox

Here are just a few techniques that can boost your value as a concrete pro:

• Stamped & Decorative Concrete: Homeowners love this stuff. Master it, and you’ll stay busy year-round.

• Exposed Aggregate: Great for driveways and walkways. Adds texture and curb appeal.

• Polished Concrete: Clean, modern, and big in commercial spaces.

• Concrete Countertops: More artistic, but high-margin if done right.

• Epoxy and Sealers: Helps protect your work—and adds upsell opportunities.

• Vertical & Carved Concrete: Niche market, but tons of creative potential.

Learn from the Best

You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Find a mentor, take a course, watch the right videos, or even attend a trade show. There are guys out there willing to teach—you just have to be willing to learn.

I’ve mentored dozens of concrete finishers who started out just doing broom finishes and now run crews specializing in high-end architectural work.

The key? Stay humble. Stay curious.

The More You Know, The More You Earn

At the end of the day, this business rewards people who keep growing. The better your skills, the more control you have over the type of work you do—and the money you make doing it.

So if you’ve been doing the same kind of jobs for years, maybe it’s time to try something new. You might be surprised how much more fulfilling (and profitable) this trade becomes when you broaden your concrete knowledge.

Keep learning. Keep leveling up. Keep pouring with purpose.

—Rick