FRANKLIN TENNESSEE, Austin Huskey, CEO and third-generation owner of Huskey Truss & Building Supply, has been identified as one of four individuals who died in a plane crash near Steamboat Springs, Colorado.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, an Epic E1000 six-seat turboprop aircraft crashed at approximately 12:20 a.m. Friday in mountainous terrain near the ski resort community. All four people on board were killed. Routt County Coroner Mitch Locke confirmed there were no survivors. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
A Life Rooted in the Lumber Industry
Huskey led Huskey Building Supply, a long-established family-owned business serving the greater Nashville area. The company operates three lumber yards, a millwork shop, and a component plant, employing more than 300 team members across Middle Tennessee.
His involvement with the company began at an early age. Huskey often shared that some of his earliest memories were formed in the lumberyard, where he worked during summers in warehouse operations, receiving, truss production, and millwork delivery. Those early experiences influenced his leadership style and deep respect for frontline employees.
After completing his education, Huskey focused on lumber purchasing and supply chain strategy, spending years building expertise in those areas. In December 2019, he assumed the role of CEO, continuing the family legacy while guiding the company’s long-term strategic growth.
Leadership Through Continuous Improvement
Colleagues described Huskey as a disciplined and forward-thinking executive committed to operational excellence. He embraced Lean management principles, drawing inspiration from the Toyota Production System and its focus on efficiency, waste reduction, and continuous improvement.
Within the organization, he encouraged daily Lean practices and empowered team members at all levels to seek incremental improvements. His leadership combined analytical thinking with accessibility, frequently engaging directly with employees about operational processes and professional development.
Those who worked alongside him said he placed equal importance on building strong systems and investing in people.
A Community in Mourning
Huskey’s passing has deeply affected the Franklin business community and the broader construction supply industry. As investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the crash, colleagues and friends are remembering a leader who upheld his family’s business traditions while modernizing operations for future growth.
Austin Huskey is remembered as a thoughtful executive and mentor whose influence will continue through the company he helped strengthen and the many individuals he supported throughout his career. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
