Billionaire Profile
Dan Wilks
Global Rank
#2058

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Dan Wilks

CEO, Frac Tech
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.9B
As of December 2025
Age
69
Source
Natural gas
Industry
energy
Citizenship
US

Biography

Dan Wilks is an American businessman and energy industry leader. Born in Cisco, Texas, Wilks, along with his brother Farris, built a fortune in the hydraulic fracturing industry. Their journey began with Wilks Masonry in 1995, followed by the founding of Frac Tech in 2002. In 2011, the brothers sold their 70% interest in Frac Tech for $3.5 billion. As of 2024, Dan Wilks's net worth is estimated to be $1.9 billion, primarily from the natural gas sector. Beyond his business career, Wilks is involved in various philanthropic endeavors and conservative political causes.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Daniel Howard "Dan" Wilks, along with his brother Farris, grew up in Cisco, Texas. Their father, Voy Wilks, was a bricklayer. The family had humble beginnings, even living in a former goat shed at one point. Voy's dedication to providing for his family would later inspire his sons to build their own financial empire.

Rise to Success

The Wilks brothers followed in their father's footsteps and became masons. In 1995, they founded Wilks Masonry, a construction company that laid the groundwork for their future success. In 2002, they established Frac Tech, a hydraulic fracturing company, capitalizing on the booming shale industry. The rapid growth and profitability of Frac Tech led to a significant financial milestone in 2011 when they sold their 70% interest for $3.5 billion. This sale cemented their status as successful entrepreneurs and catapulted them into the ranks of the world's wealthiest individuals.

Key Business Strategies

The Wilks brothers' success can be attributed to several key business strategies. First, they identified and capitalized on the burgeoning hydraulic fracturing industry. Second, their willingness to take calculated risks and make strategic investments propelled their growth. Moreover, their focus on building a strong company culture and fostering innovation helped them to stay ahead of the competition.

Philanthropy

Dan Wilks, along with his brother Farris, has been involved in philanthropic activities, supporting religious and conservative causes. Through the Heavenly Father's Foundation, he has supported several organizations.

Career Milestones

1995

Founded Wilks Masonry

Dan and his brother Farris founded Wilks Masonry, a construction company.

2002

Founded Frac Tech

Established Frac Tech, a hydraulic fracturing company.

2011

Sold Frac Tech

Sold their 70% interest in Frac Tech for $3.5 billion.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Philanthropy

Heavenly Father's Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports conservative Christian causes.

Controversies & Challenges

2018

Land Access Controversy

Controversy over restricted access to public lands in Idaho after purchasing vast land holdings.