OUR TEAM
Company Overview
Dixie Construction Services was founded in 2011 by Britt and Jason Ferrell with just two employees, and $1,600.00. Jason, who had previously worked as a Project Manager for a competing firm, believed there was a better and more ethical way to operate within the building restoration industry. Guided by a simple but uncompromising philosophy — “Be honest and do what’s right, no matter the cost” — Dixie began to set itself apart from day one.
That philosophy became the backbone of the company. Clients quickly recognized that Dixie Construction Services approached business differently: open communication, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to quality and integrity. Through hard work, perseverance, and a reputation built project by project, Dixie rapidly grew to become one of the premier restoration and reconstruction companies on Florida’s west coast.
Today, condominium associations, property managers, building owners, and design professionals trust Dixie not only for exceptional workmanship, but also for our integrity in handling complex structural restoration projects.
Leadership & Team Growth
As the workload increased and our reputation expanded, Dixie strategically added key leaders who shared the same core values and relentless work ethic.
Jason Ferrell – CEO
After departing a competing firm in 2011, Jason took a leap of faith and set out to challenge the status quo in the structural restoration industry. His vision was simple yet create a company built on uncompromising integrity, exceptional workmanship, and doing what’s right — even when it isn’t easy. What began as a risk with limited resources has grown into one of the most respected and sought-after structural restoration companies in the state of Florida.
Jason attributes the company’s success not only to hard work, but to the strength of the team around him. With key leaders such as Britt, Rick, and now Tom, Jason has built an organization grounded in accountability, transparency, and a shared commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, Dixie Construction Services consistently delivers highly successful restoration projects — regardless of size, complexity, or challenges in the field.
As the company’s License Holder, Jason ensures full compliance with state requirements and industry standards. His vision, integrity, and hands-on involvement continue to guide Dixie Construction Services forward, as the company expands its reach and reinforces its reputation as a trusted leader in structural restoration.
Rick Labrie – COO and Sr. Project Manager
Rick brings more than 25 years of experience in construction and restoration project management to Dixie’s executive leadership team. His deep technical expertise and exceptional work ethic have played a major role in building the operational foundation that supports Dixie’s growth. Rick has implemented scalable project management systems, streamlined field operations, and strengthened long-term client relationships through consistent communication and accountability.
As the leader of all construction operations, Rick oversees project planning, scheduling, field coordination, quality control, safety, and team development. His ability to anticipate challenges, provide clear direction, and maintain high performance standards ensures that every project — regardless of size, complexity, or conditions — is executed efficiently and with the highest level of workmanship.
Rick’s leadership continues to be a driving force behind Dixie Construction Services’ reputation for reliability, integrity, and superior results
Britt Ferrell – CFO / Treasurer
Britt played a pivotal role in the founding of Dixie Construction Services alongside Jason Ferrell, taking a leap of faith to help bring his vision to life. From day one, Britt has been instrumental in building the foundation and stability of the company. She oversees all financial and administrative operations, ensuring responsible fiscal management, accurate reporting, and seamless internal processes.
By managing the financial health of the business, Britt allows the project management and field teams to remain focused on what matters most — delivering exceptional work and serving our clients with integrity. Her commitment, discipline, and behind-the-scenes leadership provide the structure and stability that support Dixie’s continued growth and success.
Britt’s dedication ensures that Dixie Construction Services not only operates efficiently, but remains strong, sustainable, and positioned for long-term success.
Thomas Buffington, PE – President
Prior to joining Dixie Construction Services as President, Thomas Buffington, P.E., brought more than 22 years of experience in engineering design, inspection, and project management. As a licensed Professional Engineer and Special Inspector in the State of Florida, he has developed a deep understanding of building construction, materials, structural behavior, and restoration techniques.
Throughout his career, Tom has led teams of engineers, project managers, and field personnel on complex restoration projects across both commercial and condominium properties. His hands-on leadership style, technical expertise, and commitment to clear communication have consistently resulted in successful project outcomes and high levels of client satisfaction.
Tom is also an active leader in the concrete repair industry. He has served twice as President of the local chapter of the International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) and currently serves on multiple national committees, including a position on the ICRI Board of Directors. His industry involvement keeps him at the forefront of evolving standards, best practices, and construction innovations—further supporting Dixie Construction Services’ commitment to quality and excellence in restoration construction
Rich Nelson – Project Manager
Rich is the newest member of our Project Management team, bringing more than 25 years of experience in the construction and restoration industry. Prior to joining Dixie Construction Services, he worked for a concrete waterproofing and decorative finishes company, where he gained extensive expertise in specialty coatings, surface preparation, and project sequencing.
Known for his meticulous attention to detail and strong focus on customer satisfaction, Rich excels at managing critical-path activities and ensuring projects stay on schedule and within scope. His leadership style is rooted in clear communication, proactive coordination, and a commitment to delivering a high-quality finished product.
Rich’s depth of industry knowledge and his ability to anticipate challenges make him an invaluable asset to our clients and our organization. His presence on our team further strengthens Dixie Construction Services’ reputation for excellence, professionalism, and results-driven project execution.
Armelin Karreci – Project Manager
Armelin began his career with Dixie Construction Services in 2013. Starting as a laborer, he quickly distinguished himself through his strong work ethic, willingness to learn, and natural leadership abilities. His rapid progression from laborer to foreman — and ultimately to Project Manager — reflects both his dedication and the confidence the company has in his capabilities.
Known for his hands-on leadership style, Armelin takes full ownership of every project he manages. He combines field experience with strong organizational skills, allowing him to make informed decisions, solve problems quickly, and keep projects moving efficiently. His commitment to customer satisfaction, precise attention to detail, and pride in delivering high-quality results continue to set him apart.
Armelin is a key contributor to Dixie Construction Services, and his leadership plays an important role in maintaining the company’s reputation for excellence, craftsmanship, and integrity.
Aleksander Karadzhov – Project Manager
Promoted from the field, Aleksander brings valuable firsthand installation and construction experience, giving him a practical and insightful perspective when planning and executing restoration projects. His background allows him to anticipate challenges before they arise and to guide crews with clarity and confidence.
Aleksander’s strong technical knowledge, drive for continuous improvement, and ability to problem-solve in real time make him a key contributor to our project success. He is known for his calm, solution-focused leadership style and his commitment to delivering projects efficiently, safely, and with exceptional workmanship.
His dedication and hands-on expertise continue to strengthen our operations and elevate the overall client experience at Dixie Construction Services.
Mike Barcus – Project Assistant
Mike Barcus joined Dixie Construction in 2024. Although he entered the company with limited construction experience, his strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to learn quickly set him apart. Mike rapidly demonstrated his ability to master new skills and adapt to the fastpaced demands of the industry.
As a Project Assistant, Mike supports project teams while gaining valuable hands-on experience across multiple aspects of construction operations. His role provides a solid foundation for professional growth, and he continually seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge and capabilities. With his dedication and drive, Mike is working toward his long-term goal of advancing within the company and ultimately earning a place on the executive team
Heather Jonsson – Executive Administrative Assistant
Heather Jonsson joined Dixie Construction Services in 2022 and serves as the company’s Executive Administrative Assistant. In this key role, she provides comprehensive support to both daily operations and long-term organizational goals. Heather manages the full permitting process, assists with a wide range of HR responsibilities, and coordinates project rental equipment across active job sites. She also contributes to accounting functions and ensures the front office operates smoothly and efficiently.
Heather is known for her exceptional attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and proactive approach to problem-solving. Her ability to anticipate needs, streamline processes, and maintain clear communication makes her an invaluable asset to the executive team and the company as a whole. Through her dedication and professionalism, Heather plays a central role in keeping Dixie Construction Services running effectively and delivering on its commitments.
Individual Project Management
At Dixie Construction Services, communication and transparency are the foundation of our client experience. Every client receives 24/7 direct access to our executive leadership — Jason, Rick, and Tom — as well as the Project Manager assigned to their project. Our executives remain actively and intimately involved throughout the entire process, providing oversight, guidance, and assurance that the project is being executed to the highest standards of quality, safety, and value.
Each project is assigned a dedicated Project Manager, who is part of our executive management team. This individual is responsible for all day-to-day operations, including scheduling, coordination, communication with ownership and design professionals, and overall project execution. You will have direct access to your Project Manager at all times, ensuring questions are answered quickly and decisions are never delayed.
To support the Project Manager, each project is assigned a full-time Foreman who is physically onsite whenever the project is active. The Foreman manages the crew minute-by-minute,oversees safety and workmanship in the field, and ensures that the project progresses efficiently and according to plan. This Foreman is assigned exclusively to your project — we do not rotate or reassign key field leadership between multiple projects.
Additionally, every project receives a dedicated field crew that remains on your job from start to finish. Once assigned, our crews stay until the work is complete or until the scope reaches a point where manpower naturally tapers down. We do not pull workers from your project to staff another job. Consistency in personnel is essential to maintaining productivity, quality, and accountability.
We carefully select the right Project Manager, Foreman, and crew based on the specific expertise required for your scope of work. We do not send bodies just to appear staffed — we send qualified professionals who understand the tasks they are performing and take pride in the finished product. Our reputation is built on quality workmanship, customer service, and value, and that begins with assigning the right people to the right project every time.
REDEFINING BUILDING RESTORATION
Dixie Construction Services is redefining the building restoration industry by delivering an unmatched client experience and raising the standard of excellence. We believe success is measured not only by the completion of a project, but by how the project is executed.
Since our beginning, we have built more than structures—we’ve built trust, respect, and long-term partnerships with our clients, suppliers, and team. Our commitment to durable, high-quality repairs and consistent communication ensures that everyone involved—from our clients to our on-site crews—works together toward a shared vision. By fostering a culture of respect, teamwork, and accountability, we create relationships that endure long after the work is complete.
We are committed to:
- Personalized service — direct, responsive communication from our leadership team.
- Excellence in project management — clear planning, precise execution, and proactive problem-solving.
- Uncompromising quality — craftsmanship that reflects pride, skill, and attention to detail.
- Integrity and honesty — doing what’s right, even when it requires more time or investment.
- Value-driven innovation — creative thinking and cost-effective solutions to any challenge.
- Safety-first operations — protecting our clients, our employees, and the communities we serve.
We pair proven, time-tested restoration methods with today’s best technology and an unrelenting work ethic. The result is simple: we outperform the competition and deliver results that last.
Dixie Construction Services — where integrity meets performance, and restoration is redefined.
Services
Concrete Repair & Restoration
Painting & Waterproofing
Structural Restoration & Repair
Building Envelope Strengthening
Stucco Repair & Restoration
Waterproof Membrane Installs
Guard and Hand Rail Replacement
Window & Sliding Glass Doors
Wood & Metal Framing Repair
Post Tension Repair & Restoration
Exterior Building Over-Cladding
Wet Glazing
Hydrophobic Sealer Applications
Electrostatic Panting
Services
Glass Railing Installation
Enclosure Replacement
Active Cathodic Protection
Passive Cathodic Protection
Carbon Fiber Reinforcement
Building Stabilization
Epoxy Injection
Negative Side Waterproofing
Tile Installation
Drywall Repair & Replacement
Pressure Cleaning
Mold Abatement
Asbestos Abatement
Project Design Consulting








