LUMBERTON, TX, September 08, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Austin Sonnier has been recognized for achievement in roofing contracting and sales.

Mr. Sonnier's professional journey is deeply rooted in the legacy of Coastal Roofing Specialists, a family-owned business established by his parents more than two decades ago. For the past seven years, he has served as chief project manager, overseeing all aspects of project material verification and ensuring that every job maintains a clearly defined scope of work.

In this capacity, Mr. Sonnier is responsible for aligning crews, office staff and clients with consistent information, while also documenting projects through videos and photographs. His attention to detail extends to identifying strengths within the office team, coordinating with suppliers, managing inventory, securing permits and obtaining windstorm and engineer certifications for completed work.

Prior to his current position, Mr. Sonnier dedicated 15 years to Coastal Roofing Specialists as a roofing contractor. Beginning at just 11 or 12 years old, he contributed by handling small tasks such as picking up trash and gradually assumed greater responsibilities over time. His experience expanded into coordinating repair work and managing schedules, ultimately providing him with comprehensive expertise in residential roofing services, commercial roofing services and nonprofit roofing services. This depth of knowledge has distinguished him as an expert in the field.

In addition to his longstanding commitment to the roofing industry, Mr. Sonnier has diversified his entrepreneurial pursuits over the past three years as owner of I-Scream Station, a mobile ice cream business with an outer-space theme. Together with his wife, Brittney, he has grown the company to include multiple vehicles and four employees, developing operational systems to support ongoing expansion. The business was initially founded as a way to engage his children in meaningful work experiences and foster their growth.

Throughout his career, Mr. Sonnier has actively sought out opportunities for professional development and networking. Recognizing the importance of building connections beyond his immediate specialization, he became involved with organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. His commitment led him to join Business Network International nearly five years ago, where he now serves as one of the support directors for the region.

Through BNI, Mr. Sonnier connected with the Young Professionals Organization in Southeast Texas and currently sits on its steering committee board. These affiliations have enabled him to refer clients to trusted professionals in related fields while broadening his own network.

Mr. Sonnier's dedication has been recognized through several honors, including receiving the 40 Under 40 award from both the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce and United States representative Randy Weber in 2025 — distinctions that underscore his influence within the business community. Additionally, he was honored with a Vocational Excellence Award in 2024 after serving as a guest speaker for the Rotary Club. Mr. Sonnier completed a one-year term on the Better Business Bureau board and looks forward to returning to that rotation in the future.

In addition, Mr. Sonnier has continued to enhance his qualifications through certifications in steep slope application and flat roof application, as well as completing coursework with Mind Edge Learning through the Better Business Bureau. These credentials have supported his ability to navigate complex technical requirements within the roofing industry.

Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Sonnier acknowledges that overcoming personal challenges, including periods of instability after high school, shaped his resolve to pursue excellence rather than simply coasting along. This mindset has driven him to consistently double down on effort and commitment in both personal and professional spheres. Mr. Sonnier believes it is never too late to change, and never too late to recognize the opportunity to grow and contribute through one's work — something he considers a true blessing.

Beyond business endeavors, Mr. Sonnier demonstrates a strong commitment to civic engagement across Southeast Texas. As a volunteer for Better Business Bureau Champions, he distributes milestone packets to local businesses throughout the region. Through I-Scream Station's partnership with Millie's Way, a nonprofit organization supporting pets in need of medical treatment, he contributes resources for animal welfare causes. His involvement also includes collaborating with Veterans Affairs, having provided free roofing services for a military family facing financial hardship, an initiative made possible through partnerships with ABC Supply and local contractors.

On a personal level, Mr. Sonnier was born in Austin and enjoys spending time with family alongside his spouse and their two children. He finds fulfillment in involving his children in business activities, aiming to instill values of responsibility and motivation by example. Looking ahead, his primary objective is to provide guidance for his son as he approaches adulthood while continuing to nurture both personal well-being and family bonds through shared experiences and ongoing professional engagement.

# # #