Erin Knupp
Director of business development, Boyd Jones
Age: 34
Husband: Sam Knupp
Children: Milo Knupp (3), Emerson Knupp (1)
Accomplishments that make you deserving of being a Forty Under 40:
I serve on the board of directors for Urban Dreams and the Des Moines Downtown Chamber of Commerce.
I led a team of nine women to build a home for Greater Des Moines Habitat for Humanity Women Build Day.
I serve on the fundraising committee for the Center at Sixth, a nonprofit focused on affording equal business opportunities to Black and brown business owners.
I am a West Des Moines Leadership Academy alum (class of 2022-23).
What's your biggest passion, and why?
My biggest passion is connecting others. In my profession, it's not what you know – it's who you know. I have accomplished a lot of things because of the generosity of other business professionals willing to connect me to others and help point me in the right direction. I want to do the same for everyone I have an encounter with.
What are your goals in your role at work?
I'm currently focused on the Center at Sixth project, where we are proud to serve as construction manager and are beginning vertical construction. I also always try to have at least 15 meetings a week with various industry professionals as it pertains to construction projects in the area.
What are your goals in a role outside of work?
Trying to balance being a wife, mom of two littles and a business woman is always a lifelong goal. Every week my goals shift a little depending on what aspect of my life needs the most attention at that time.
Tell us about an experience or memory that influenced how you see the world or what you want to do in life.
I grew up on a farm in the middle of nowhere. That “small-town farm girl” mentality was instilled in me from a very young age. I saw my dad and brothers work tirelessly year-round in extreme heat and bitter cold because they did what it took to get the job done, and I grew up with the same expectations of me. Everything that I ever wanted growing up was provided to me, as long as I worked for it. I think my grit and grind definitely comes from that farm.
What are your aspirations for the future?
I've been lucky to be introduced to many nonprofits in my role at Boyd Jones, and I'd like to home in on one or two where I can use my skill sets and energy to make a larger impact. Careerwise, I'd love to see my efforts bring in more opportunities for Boyd Jones to have a chance to compete to construct local projects. I want to continue to build meaningful relationships and build great projects.
What's one piece of advice you'd give to a young professional?
One of the most memorable pieces of business advice I'd give to a young professional is to focus on building relationships. Networking isn't just about collecting business cards; it's about genuinely connecting with people, understanding their needs and finding ways to add value to their lives or businesses. Invest time in cultivating meaningful connections, both within and outside your industry. These relationships can open doors, provide valuable insights and even lead to unexpected opportunities down the road.
What is one thing you would like to see Central Iowa leaders address, and why?
I'd love to see leaders continue to make school safety a top priority. I never dreamed I’d have to worry if my kid needs a bulletproof backpack or if they'll come home from school safely any given day. Schools should be safe havens where students can learn and thrive without fear of violence or harm. I believe that addressing the mental health gaps in our state goes hand in hand with this.
What's one fun fact about you?
My first car accident I got hit by a train. It's a doozy of a story. I'll tell you over a beer sometime.
Hobbies: I am passionate about fitness, I can jigsaw-puzzle with the best of them and I love a sunny day on the golf course.
One word that describes you: Persistent.
What is your favorite local restaurant? Cosi Cucina, hands down.
Name one book, podcast, movie or show you love. “The Happiness Advantage: The Seven Principles of Positive Psychology That Fuel Success and Performance at Work” by Shawn Achor.
What is your go-to activity to do in Central Iowa in the evenings or during the weekend?
Live music. Des Moines has so many great live-music options for all types of tastes; take advantage of it!