From Blueprints to Backroads: How I Built Big Sky Campers and Discovered My True Passion

Finding a New Path: Trading Labs for the Open Road

As a chemical engineer, I was used to working with precision, equations, and problem-solving on a massive scale. For years, I thrived in the corporate world, managing projects for companies like Intel and Roche. I loved the challenges, but over time, I started to feel disconnected from the outcomes of my work. My life felt like a series of spreadsheets and conference calls, and I longed for something more tangible — something personal, creative, and fulfilling.

The spark for change came during a camping trip in the Arizona desert. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and endless stars, I realized how much I craved a life that combined my love for nature with the satisfaction of building something with my hands. That’s when the idea for Big Sky Campers began to take shape.

Building the Foundation: Engineering Meets Adventure

Starting Big Sky Campers wasn’t just a career pivot; it was a complete reimagining of how I wanted to live my life. My engineering background played a huge role in shaping the business. The problem-solving skills I honed over years of managing complex projects helped me tackle the logistical challenges of starting a new venture from scratch. Whether it was designing efficient camper layouts or sourcing sustainable materials, I approached every aspect of the business like an engineering puzzle.

But unlike the corporate world, this time, the results were deeply personal. I could see the joy on my customers’ faces when they picked up their fully customized campers, ready to embark on their own adventures. It was a tangible reminder of why I had made the leap.

The Heart of the Business: Why Customization Matters

At Big Sky Campers, every design is unique because every customer is unique. Some people need extra storage for their mountain bikes, while others want a cozy sleeping area for family road trips. I love the challenge of taking these individual needs and creating something functional, beautiful, and personal.

Customization is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about helping people create memories. When I deliver a camper, I’m not just handing over a product — I’m giving someone the tools to explore, unwind, and reconnect with what matters most. Knowing that my work helps people experience the freedom and joy of the open road is the most rewarding part of my job.

Lessons from the Road: Challenges and Growth

Starting a business is rarely a smooth ride, and Big Sky Campers was no exception. One of the biggest challenges was navigating the gap between my engineering mindset and the creative, customer-focused world of entrepreneurship. In engineering, there’s often one “right” answer, but in this business, success is about finding the right solution for each individual customer.

There were logistical challenges, too, like learning how to manage supply chains and figuring out marketing strategies. I made plenty of mistakes along the way, but each one taught me something valuable. For example, I quickly learned that clear communication is just as important as technical skill. Listening closely to my customers and truly understanding their needs has been a game-changer.

Sustainability and Adventure: A Personal Mission

As I built Big Sky Campers, sustainability became a central part of my mission. I believe that enjoying the outdoors comes with a responsibility to protect it. That’s why I focus on using eco-friendly materials and designing campers that minimize environmental impact. I’m constantly looking for ways to make my products greener, whether it’s by incorporating solar panels or sourcing locally to reduce carbon footprints.

My personal love for adventure fuels this commitment. Whether I’m cycling through Arizona’s breathtaking landscapes or camping with friends, I want to ensure that future generations can enjoy these experiences, too. Building a business that aligns with my values has been deeply satisfying and has added another layer of purpose to my work.

Rediscovering Myself Through Entrepreneurship

One of the unexpected gifts of starting Big Sky Campers has been how much I’ve learned about myself. I’ve rediscovered a creative side I hadn’t tapped into since my younger years. I’ve also learned to embrace uncertainty and see it as an opportunity for growth.

Through this journey, I’ve found that entrepreneurship is less about having all the answers and more about being willing to take the next step, even when you’re not sure where it will lead. It’s a lesson that has spilled over into every part of my life, from my advocacy work to my hobbies like cycling and cooking.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

If you’re thinking about making a big career change or starting your own business, my advice is simple: Start where you are. You don’t need to have it all figured out on day one. Use the skills and experiences you already have, and don’t be afraid to learn as you go.

Also, find a way to connect your work to your passions. For me, Big Sky Campers isn’t just a business — it’s a way to combine my love for engineering, the outdoors, and sustainability. When your work aligns with your values, the hard days feel worthwhile.

The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Big Sky Campers

As I look to the future, I’m excited to keep growing Big Sky Campers. I’m exploring new ways to make my designs even more sustainable and expanding the business to offer additional services, like on-the-go workshops for camper enthusiasts. I also want to create more content to inspire people to embrace adventure, whether it’s through blog posts, videos, or community events.

Building Big Sky Campers has been an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to see where the road takes me next. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the best adventures are the ones you create for yourself.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a dreamer with a business idea, or someone looking to take the leap into the unknown, I hope my story inspires you to chase what lights you up. Life is too short to settle for anything less than the adventure of a lifetime.