MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: JAKE KEPPLE

Could you tell us who you are and what it is that you do?

I’m Jake Kepple, the owner of Crosscut Construction. Our outstanding team specializes in new construction and turn key renovations. We also work with clients on outdoor spaces including: Screen Porches, Pergolas and Gazebos, Decks and other Outbuildings.

What do you love about the work?

There are several components to the work that I love. Stepping into a person's dream and vision for their home or project and seeing it come to life is very rewarding, as well as coming alongside someone and helping them discover the possibilities, or meeting their needs in a practical and beautiful way. I love the opportunity to be entrepreneurial, pilot the ship and lead our team as we serve our clients and community.

How did you arrive at this point in your career? What’s your backstory?

I grew up working in my Dad’s company and was exposed to construction and the trades at an early age. I have had the opportunity to do everything from operating excavation equipment to putting roofs on and everything in between. We learned the importance and rewards of hard work.

My backstory includes a fairly long and circuitous journey that included going to college, pursuing some other career paths, and then ultimately landing back in the field of construction here in Charlottesville. My initial foray back into the world of trades was with a local custom home builder, where I had the opportunity to grow from field supervisor to project manager. In these roles, I was blessed to be a part of constructing some beautiful homes and spaces, and it really re-ignited my love for building.

Has there been a light switch moment, a turning point (or two), professionally &/or personally along the way?

The dream of starting a company has always been in my head and heart (sometimes pushed to the back), and in 2023 I felt that I needed to step out in faith and pursue building something special. With the help of my brother Ethan, we launched our company in May of 2023.

One of the primary goals of Crosscut Construction is to embody our mission statement (We seek to honor the Lord with our whole lives, Serve people well, and Love what we do) and to live out our core values (Integrity, Excellence, Enthusiasm, Comradery, Dignity).

Who or what has been of greatest influence to you?

Without question, there have been many people over the years who have helped shape and guide me. At the top of that list are my parents, and in particular my father. His example over the years, watching him treat people with dignity, make hard decisions, meet deadlines etc. has served me well, and I hope to continue the legacy of excellence and diligence that he has modeled for decades.

What are you currently working on, excited about, looking forward to?

We are working on a new construction home to be built in the Free Union area. It is on a picturesque piece of land with a breathtaking view. It will be a very modern design, with some unique architectural elements that will be very rewarding to see completed. Also, there is a screen porch and pergola that we are designing for a client in a local community whose property adjoins a golf course, which will be another stunning space.

Anything we missed that you might care to share (closing thoughts)?

We have attempted to be very forthright in our approach to describing ourselves, and to wear our faith on our sleeves so to speak. What we have discovered over the past couple of years is that while not everyone shares our faith, when we live up to the benchmark of the standards that we have identified as our goal, the client receives excellence and has a great experience working with us.