About - Precon Products | Custom Concrete Solutions & Infrastructure

1960s

In 1963, Don Domingo Zarraonandia left his sales position at American Pipe to found Precon Products in Thousand Oaks, California. Don poured the first manhole shaft in his garage, later securing a 1-acre site next to MGM’s Jungle Land, now the site of The Lakes. His vision focused on responsive customer service and innovation, setting the foundation for Precon’s commitment to quality and reliability.

1970s

By 1972, Precon had outgrown its original site, leading Don to purchase 10 acres in Simi Valley. Within 15 years, Precon had become the preferred supplier of sewer and storm drain manholes, thanks to its dedication to meeting customer needs with reliable, high-quality products.

1980s

Recognizing inefficiencies in the Reinforced Concrete Pipe (RCP) market, Don invested in a state-of-the-art 60” diameter pipe machine from Hydrotile Machinery. With input from his son David, this move allowed Precon to enter the pipe market with superior production capabilities. Don’s dedication was evident until the end; a week before his passing, he visited the factory to see the nearly completed pipe machine and production building. His hard work and customer-first approach laid the groundwork for Precon’s leadership in the industry.

1990s

Under the leadership of Don’s eldest son David, Precon secured approvals for machine-made pipe from key agencies, including Los Angeles County after two years of advocacy. Facing a recession in 1991, David brought in his youngest brother, Dan, to help navigate challenges. Precon expanded its product line to include sewer pump stations, oil/water separators, catch basins, architectural signs, and vaults. By the late 1990s, Precon also began field construction and installation of sewer manholes and other structures, further diversifying its capabilities.

2000s

Investing in a 30-ton Shuttle Lift enabled Precon to manufacture larger vaults and precast products, significantly expanding its offerings. These advancements allowed the company to tackle more complex and large-scale projects, meeting the evolving needs of the industry.

2010s

Precon earned the trust of the U.S. Navy for critical infrastructure projects on San Nicolas Island, Port Hueneme, and Point Mugu Naval Stations. Projects included missile launcher platforms, oxidation ponds, gas line repairs, and hangar renovations for the Fire Scout, the first unmanned helicopter. This decade marked Precon’s ability to innovate and execute on demanding projects that went beyond traditional precast work.

2020s

Focusing on sustainability and green energy, Precon has pioneered new solutions like the StormPrism stormwater retention system and the EVEZ line of electric vehicle charging bases. These products reflect our commitment to meeting the future’s challenges today.

The Precon Story

Precon Products was founded in 1963 by Don Domingo Zarraonandia after leaving his sales role at American Pipe. He started by pouring manhole shafts in his garage before acquiring a one-acre site in Thousand Oaks, California. With a strong focus on customer service and innovation in the pre-cast concrete industry, Precon quickly expanded, moving to a 10-acre site in Simi Valley by 1972. Within 15 years, the company became the preferred supplier of sewer and storm drain manholes, securing its place as a leader in the industry.

Expanding on his experience with reinforced concrete pipe, Don saw an opportunity to modernize the industry, which had long been dominated by inefficient manufacturing. With the help of his eldest son David, he invested in an advanced automated pipe machine, enabling Precon to enter the pipe market with high-quality production. Don’s final visit to the company before his passing was to see the nearly completed pipe machine, a testament to his dedication and vision. His commitment to hard work and customer care transformed Precon from a garage startup into a major force in the pre-cast concrete industry.

After Don’s passing, David took over as president, working to secure machine-made pipe approval from key regulatory agencies, a process that took two years. During the 1990s, Precon expanded its product line to include sewer pump stations, oil/water separators, and architectural structures, eventually adding field construction and installation services. Don’s legacy continues to shape Precon, driven by the values instilled in him from his immigrant parents, his hardships during the Great Depression, and his service in World War II. His work ethic and resilience remain at the heart of the company’s enduring success.

The Precon Process

Our goal is to consistently exceed customer expectations through a combination of technical expertise, innovative solutions, and superior service.

In-house Design

Whether it’s designing a custom solution or producing complex structures, our expertise ensures a seamless process from concept to completion.

Manufacturing & Building

Precon combines innovative manufacturing, expert construction, and an in-house design team to maximize efficiency and deliver superior value to every project.

Modern Delivery Fleet

Our modern fleet of crane delivery trucks and highly experienced field crews ensures timely, professional service to meet the rigorous demands of our industry. This capability enhances our ability to deliver large, complex precast products efficiently.

Contractor Services

As a general engineering contractor, Precon supports contractors and engineers with cost-effective solutions to everyday challenges. Our expertise and collaborative approach have even helped industry competitors in critical moments—demonstrating our commitment to solving problems and advancing the industry.

Collaborative Approach

At Precon, we partner with clients at every phase of a project—design, manufacture, and build—to ensure tailored solutions that meet unique challenges.

Innovative Problem-Solving

Precon has developed a reputation for tackling complex regulatory and design challenges with innovative solutions.

Meet Your Team

With over 300 years of combined experience in precast and utility construction, Precon’s management team represents the best in the industry. We value honesty, integrity, and a collaborative spirit, fostering trust both within our team and with our clients.

From production workers to office staff and executives, every member of our team is focused on one goal: making our part of your project the easiest part. Systems, processes, and equipment are only as good as the people behind them, and at Precon, our people make the difference.