About us

Get to know Hagler & Kerr, LLC

Hagler & Kerr, LLC was founded in Austin, TX in 2003 by John Kerr. Before owning and operating his own firm, John began his professional journey in Dallas, TX in 1969 as a paint salesman for Glidden. In 1971, H.L. Land (of Land Painting in Dallas, TX) had taken notice of John’s potential and offered him a position. Within a year, John started his own division for Land Painting in Austin, TX and immediately he got started building relationships. Those relationships were based on honesty and integrity, which are two key values that are still intact today at H&K. John’s business philosophy has been and will always be “chase relationships, not work.” John then moved on to work for Dean Hagler, Ltd in Lubbock, TX. Together, they opened a division in Austin, TX called Dean Hagler of Austin, Inc. John’s knowledge of the industry and relationships paid off and he was able to buy out Mr. Hagler and open his own business. He named it Hagler & Kerr, LLC, keeping “Hagler” in the name as an honor to Dean.

Today, Hagler & Kerr, LLC is owned by John’s son, PJ Kerr. It has remained a Native American minority owned business that chases relationships, not work. We stand by our core values of honesty and integrity. We treat our customers like family and will go out of our way to make sure the projects are completed on time with the highest level of quality, professionalism and safety.

Our Core Values

Integrity

We operate with transparency, honesty, and accountability in every action and decision.

Safety

Safety is our top priority. We strictly follow industry standards to ensure secure work environments and dependable project delivery.

Service

We value clear communication, reliable timelines, and dedication to exceeding client expectations every step of the way.

Quality

We are committed to excellence through precise workmanship, proactive solutions, and delivering outstanding results every time.

Mission Statement

Hagler & Kerr, LLC is built on the belief that relationships come first. As a leader in commercial painting and industrial coatings across Central Texas, we approach every project with integrity, precision, and an uncompromising commitment to safety. From advanced manufacturing facilities to stadiums and large-scale developments, we thrive on complex projects with demanding schedules — delivering results that reflect both craftsmanship and trust.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to set the benchmark for excellence in commercial painting and industrial coatings throughout Central Texas and beyond. We aim to be the partner clients rely on for high-stakes, high-standard projects—where safety, quality, and accountability cannot be compromised. By honoring our legacy of “chasing relationships, not work,” we continue to embrace challenges that others avoid, building partnerships and results that stand the test of time.