On September 16th, the Daviess County CEO Cohort had the privilege of visiting K&K Industries for an enriching meet-and-greet session with Nelson and his son Evan Knepp, a proud CEO Alumni. During this visit, Nelson shared the story of K&K Industries, a company founded in 1972 by his father, Abe Knepp. The session was not just about the history of the company but also about invaluable life and business lessons that resonated deeply with everyone present.
Nelson began by emphasizing the importance of people in business, stating, “If you remember nothing else, remember this: people are important.” This message set the tone for the morning, underlining a core value that has been pivotal in K&K Industries' success. He spoke about the times when the company faced significant setbacks, including a devastating fire in 1980 and a tornado in 2005. During these challenging times, the community rallied around them, offering support and reminding them of the strength found in people helping people.
Reflecting on these experiences, Nelson shared some key lessons that have guided him both personally and professionally:
****People Are Important: Always prioritize relationships and the well-being of those around you.
****People Helping People: The support from the community during tough times is invaluable. It’s a reminder that we’re never truly alone in our challenges.
****Life Is Fragile: Don’t take anything for granted. Every moment and opportunity should be cherished.
****Embrace the Journey: Enjoy every step of the process, whether in business or life. It’s about the journey, not just the destination.
****Focus on What You Can Control: Work diligently on the aspects within your control and don’t stress over what you cannot change.
****Connections and Relationships Matter: Building and maintaining strong relationships is key to success and resilience.
****Go Against the Flow: Don’t be afraid to challenge norms and think outside the box. Innovation often comes from daring to be different.
****Create a Great Culture: Cultivate a work environment where people feel valued, respected, and motivated to contribute.
After the insightful discussion, the cohort was given the opportunity to tour the truss factory, gaining a deeper understanding of the operational side of K&K Industries. It was a firsthand look at how the values Nelson spoke about are integrated into the company’s day-to-day operations.
The morning concluded with a heartfelt thank you to Nelson and Evan for their time, wisdom, and hospitality. Their story and insights left a lasting impression on the cohort, who left K&K Industries inspired and equipped with a new perspective on business and life.
This visit was a powerful reminder of the importance of resilience, community, and maintaining strong values in the face of adversity. The Daviess County CEO Cohort is grateful for this experience and looks forward to applying these lessons in their future endeavors