Meet Terry Howell, the General Manager at Merritt Concrete (merrittlincoln.com).

Tell us a little about your business. – We are a concrete and aggregate provider that has served Lincoln businesses, homeowners and utility infrastructure companies for over 125 years. We have a fleet of state-of-the-art volumetric mixing trucks that will mix and measure your concrete on site and a flatwork team that will finish the job for you. We also provide concrete trailers for DIY projects.

How did you get started in the business? – I started in construction right out of high school, and about 26 years ago, I got involved in the concrete production and delivery side of the business.

What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally? – The biggest challenge is remembering that everyone has bad days and to let things slide.

What has been your most important achievement professionally? – My most significant professional achievement is earning the respect of concrete contractors in the area.

Tell us a little about your family. – I am married to my amazing wife, Paula. Between us, we have seven children and 14 Grandchildren, with two more on the way in August.

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – Meeting my wife was one of my life’s most significant turning points.

What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – My favorite thing to do on my day off is ride my motorcycle.

Who inspires you? – Several people have been in the concrete industry for a long time, and all inspire me.

What is your favorite quote or the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be? – Honest.

If you had a theme song, what would it be? – “Better Than I Used to Be” – Tim McGraw.

Which talent would you most like to have? – More patience.

If you could choose any other profession to be successful in, what would it be? – Ranching.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – Anything by William W. Johnstone.

What is your favorite movie? – The Cowboys with John Wayne.

What is your favorite TV show? – Gunsmoke.

What is your favorite local Lincoln restaurant? – The Press Box.

If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be? – John Wayne.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – (402) 435-3213, merrittlincoln.com.