Farris Wilks

Early Life

Farris Wilks was born in Cisco, Texas, to a bricklayer. He and his brother, Dan, grew up in modest circumstances, even reportedly living in a goat shed at one point. Following in their father's footsteps, the brothers became masons, establishing Wilks Masonry in 1995.

Rise to Success

The Wilks brothers entered the energy industry in 2002, founding Frac Tech, a hydraulic fracturing and oil field services company. They grew the company into a major player in the fracking boom, and in 2011, they sold their 70% interest in Frac Tech to a partnership led by Temasek Holdings for $3.5 billion.

Key Business Strategies

The Wilks' success was built on identifying and capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the shale boom through Frac Tech. Their strategic move to sell Frac Tech at the height of the boom allowed them to generate substantial capital. Subsequently, they have invested in various oil and gas businesses and land.

Philanthropy

Farris Wilks is heavily involved in philanthropy, primarily supporting conservative and religious causes. He and his wife, Jo Ann, control the Thirteen Foundation, which has donated to numerous conservative groups.