Today we’d like to introduce you to Scott Wilson.
Hi Scott, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My sister and I were raised by our mom in a single-parent family. My mom, being a school teacher, provided the best she could, though it was easy to get into trouble without a dad’s guiding hand. Being somewhat precocious, I loved building things and tinkering with computers. I always seemed to find odd jobs to do for extra money around the neighborhood. My first “real job” was Taco Bell at 14 yrs old and many food service positions followed allowing me to buy all my cars in High School. From soccer to baseball and then football in high school, I had a passion for sports as well. I was introduced to the Bible’s message from a friend on my team and it was this process of grace and acceptance through Christ that saved me from the hopelessness I felt inside during those years. In college, I studied Accounting and Screenwriting and played a lot of beach volleyball. When my sister shared with me the opportunity to serve as a counselor at a kid’s camp, I was in. I met my wife at camp and we have been involved with youth work ever since. These days, I love mentoring at the Burke Center for Youth in Driftwood.
Going to work for a large accounting/consulting firm was the start of 20+ years in the corporate scene. Receiving my CPA and then getting involved with a technology consulting group and later into software, I enjoyed many rewarding experiences. I learned how to lead, communicate and perform highly analytical exercises focused on improving business operations.
Along the way, though, I realized that a job would not allow me to explore my ability to build something from nothing. And so, along the way, I have been a partner in a tanning salon and a frozen yogurt shop. My wife, Missy, and I began to acquire and manage a number of rental properties. About 10 years ago, we decided to devote all my efforts to my Austin-based real-estate investment and renovation business. I was traveling so much in my job and wanted to be home with our family and a part of the development of my children (1 boy and 3 girls). A few years into renovating homes, I met my current business partner. We are now known as Strong Roots Development and have built a local name in custom homebuilding. As I look back over the last 10 years or so, starting a home building company is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable things I’ve ever done. I am so grateful that somewhere in my mid-forties I decided to chase that dream with real intention and commitment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
One of my main struggles has been developing the grit to let go of the safety net I was accustomed to with a job. Starting a business challenges you on so many levels, but the process has been helpful to my family. They get to see me more now and my children are also experimenting and exploring with their own businesses. Financially it was (and sometimes still is) inconsistent. One day you are sure you did the right thing and the next you start to wonder if you are as crazy as some of my friends seem to think I am (spoiler: I am).
Also, I think learning to give both time and money to worthwhile causes no matter how strapped I felt and no matter how little financial security I had has been a fulfilling exercise in discipline and faith. I think it’s a constant battle I face whether it’s devoting time with family, taking a vacation that I don’t think I have time for, or mentoring at the local boys home, sometimes I fail to give myself the permission to serve without guilt. Of course, after I throw my energies in this direction, I look back and wonder why I let a my own unrealistic expectations get in the way of real living.
More personally, when my dad died 10 years ago, even though I didn’t grow up with him, I found myself in a strange pattern of grief that I had never experienced. In the end, it turned out to be a catalyst to my growth and some of these bold decisions to be more available to those whom I love.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Strong Roots Development?
In an industry often driven by speed and profit margins, Strong Roots Development (SRD) stands apart by prioritizing faith, family, community, and sustainability. We are an Austin-area luxury custom home builder.
What Sets Us Apart:
SRD specializes in full-property planning that goes beyond traditional home construction. “Within our logo are the words: Build. Grow. Live. We help clients expand their living experience to encompass their entire property—from food gardens and outdoor living spaces to water features and energy-independent solutions.
We integrate cutting-edge sustainability technology with timeless craftsmanship, incorporating rainwater harvesting, energy independence systems, and environmentally conscious materials. We have a hands-on collaboration approach which builds trust and forges lasting client relationships..
Creating legacy properties while fostering abundant, self-sufficient living is our passion.
How do you think about happiness?
I’m most content and happy when I am fulfilling the purpose(s) I was created for. At this phase of my life, I think it has most to do with being a good husband and father, doing my best to train our children in the ways that will lead to their success which includes exploring their Christian faith and applying themselves, in all they do, with discipline, focus, joy and a little bit of laughter too. When I know I am providing for my family and the community to the best of my ability, it’s a great feeling. And, for some reason, an occasional bourbon, cigar and good conversation with my friends ushers that little extra dose of joy and allows me to reset.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://buildwithstrongroots.com
- Instagram: @srd_builder
