On Monday, December 9th, the Daviess County CEO Cohort welcomed back one of their own: Austin Knepp, a member of the Class of 2023. Currently a freshman at the University of Southern Indiana (USI), Austin is pursuing a degree in business with a minor in accounting. Despite his young age, Austin has already achieved remarkable milestones as an entrepreneur, making his visit an inspiring experience for the current cohort.
Austin began exploring entrepreneurship at just 14 years old, starting with the construction and sale of barrel trains, which he marketed and sold across the country. By his sophomore year of high school, Austin had purchased his first rental property, embarking on a real estate journey that has grown exponentially. Over the past three years, he has acquired and renovated four homes—all with his own hands—and last summer, he expanded into commercial real estate by building a 60-unit storage facility in Pike County.
Among his impressive projects is a treehouse rental located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This unique property is now complete, and Austin plans to list it on VRBO starting in January, offering a one-of-a-kind getaway experience.
During his presentation, Austin candidly shared the lessons he’s learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of navigating challenges such as commercial zoning, obtaining permits, managing customer service, securing insurance, and adhering to timelines. His insights underscored the value of perseverance and adaptability in the face of complex projects.
Austin also encouraged the cohort to treasure the connections they are building now and to continue networking throughout their entrepreneurial journeys. “Keep the connections you’re making now,” he advised, “they will prove invaluable in the future.”
Beyond his entrepreneurial pursuits, Austin has obtained his pilot’s license, a passion he holds close to his heart and hopes to continue exploring.
The Daviess County CEO Cohort extends their gratitude to Austin for taking the time to share his journey and valuable advice. His story serves as a testament to the power of hard work, determination, and a willingness to embrace opportunities. Thank you, Austin, for inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs!