Decades of Trusted Testing Expertise

TSI Laboratories has operated in Texas since 1994, with family-owned roots in the materials testing industry dating back to 1958. We provide geotechnical and construction materials testing and inspection services to owners, architects, developers, engineers, contractors, government agencies, and the public.

Company History and Growth

The Tater family has been involved in the materials testing industry since 1958, bringing over 60 years of combined experience.

Michael Tater took over major operations of the business formerly known as Trinity Soils Investigation in 1994 after his father’s semi-retirement.

Our company was officially renamed TSI Laboratories, Inc. in 2004.

In November 2005, TSI acquired Trinity Testing Laboratories, Inc. in La Feria, Texas, expanding its service area further south.

Over the following years, the company continued to grow with offices in San Antonio, Texas, and Pasadena, Texas.

To streamline operations, the La Feria, San Antonio, and Pasadena locations were later closed, and in 2017, the Weatherford, Texas, location was established.

Our team continues to employ staff in the San Antonio, Houston, and Rio Grande Valley regions, allowing continued statewide service coverage.

Geotechnical analysis with soil core sample

Key Personnel

We’re powered by a problem-solving team offering geotechnical investigations, construction materials testing and inspections, laboratory analysis, and environmental services. We partner with affiliated consultants to extend our capabilities, offering services such as structural engineering, petrographic analysis, and Phase 1 environmental testing.

Executive Leadership

Michael Tater, President

Michael Tater is the Owner and President of TSI Laboratories, with over 40 years of experience in construction materials testing. He began his career working in laboratory and field environments, progressing from technician roles to managing large-scale industrial and infrastructure projects.

He has led major projects for clients including Dow Chemicals, Union Carbide, and Formosa Plastics, and played a key role in the City of Victoria’s transition from asphalt to concrete roadways.

Extensive experience in industrial and public infrastructure projects.
Involved in research on alternative base materials.
Worked on flood control and dam rehabilitation projects.
Certified by ACI, ASTM, AASHTO, and other industry organizations.

His focus remains on maintaining high standards, certifications, and consistent quality across all TSI operations.

Daniel Tesfai, P.E., Director of Engineering

Daniel Tesfai brings over 25 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, project management, and quality control. He oversees construction materials testing projects and leads geotechnical reporting across all TSI locations.

His experience spans major government and commercial projects including the City of Houston, Port of Houston, and large-scale infrastructure developments.

Supervises CMT projects and geotechnical evaluations.
Expertise in foundation design and expansive soils.
Experience across transportation, utilities, and commercial sectors.
Leads QA QC testing program implementation.

He provides practical design recommendations and ensures project risks are identified early.

Operations and Technical Leadership

Tom Paez, VP Lab Operations

Seth Tater, Lab Manager, Victoria Lab

Project and Field Leadership

Jose Martinez, Project Manager and Senior Technician

Rene Cantu, Senior Technician

Our Commitment to Safety

Employee Safety First

Employees are the top priority, with a strong focus on health, safety, training, and proper work conditions. No task outweighs safety.

Safe Work Environment

Commitment to accident prevention, adequate rest, and maintaining safe, hazard-free workplaces.

Reporting and Compliance

Employees must report hazards, incidents, and fatigue. Strict adherence to all safety regulations and company policies.

Proactive Safety Culture

All accidents are preventable through effective programs. Safety is integrated into daily operations.

Shared Responsibility

Management provides resources and oversight, while employees follow safe practices and help prevent risks.

Leadership and Accountability

Supervisors lead by example, monitor performance, and ensure safety standards are maintained.

Team Commitment

Safety applies to everyone, with continuous improvement, awareness, and teamwork to prevent injuries.

Ask Our Team Anything

Have questions? Feel free to connect with us. Our team is here to answer all your questions and guide you every step of the way.

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