Farris Cullen Wilks is an American self-made billionaire, entrepreneur, and pastor. His fortune was founded on the energy industry. He is the son of a bricklayer, and grew up in extreme poverty in Cisco, Texas, sometimes sleeping in a goat shed alongside his brother, Dan Wilks. This challenging background instilled an intense self-reliance, which he blends with deep religious conviction.

Farris's career began in the masonry and construction trade, founding Wilks Masonry with his brother Dan in 1995. He is also the pastor and bishop of the Assembly of Yahweh (7th day), a conservative religious congregation. His deep religious beliefs—which consider homosexuality and abortion to be crimes—strongly guide his philanthropic and political activities, often making him a controversial political figure.

Farris Wilks and his brother Dan co-founded Frac Tech Services (Frac Tech) in 2002, specializing in hydraulic fracking services and manufacturing the specialized equipment necessary for shale oil and gas extraction. Their hands-on industrial skills and strategic market timing allowed them to capitalize immensely on the U.S. shale boom.

The culmination of this growth was the sale of their majority stake in Frac Tech in 2011 for over $3.2 billion (split with his brother), securing his multi-billion dollar fortune. Since the sale, Farris Wilks has become a major figure in conservative political funding, contributing large sums to conservative political causes and media (e.g., Prager University) that align with his strong religious and social values.

Farris Wilks's social impact is highly focused on advancing conservative Christian values through funding of political organizations and media. His company's structural impact is tied to the U.S. energy independence achieved by the fracking boom. His personal philanthropy supports faith-based organizations and initiatives that align with his social and religious views.

His career is a compelling narrative of self-made success, balancing industrial prowess with a deep, guiding commitment to his religious faith and political advocacy.

Farris Wilks maintains the rugged, conservative style of a self-made Texas industrialist and pastor. His attire is functional, favoring simple, professional wear. His aesthetic is anti-glamour, reflecting his working-class roots and his emphasis on faith and business fundamentals.

Residing in Cisco, Texas, his luxury is the immense security and financial reward derived from his multi-billion dollar fortune. His life is defined by his commitment to his faith, his large family, and the long-term stewardship of his land and energy-related assets.