Ashton Keppel: A Young Entrepreneur Shaping the Future of Security in West Virginia
At just 22 years old, Ashton Keppel has already achieved what many seasoned entrepreneurs aspire to: owning and operating a successful business. Ashton, a senior at West Liberty University pursuing a degree in marketing, is the proud owner and CEO of Safe Now Security & Fire, a thriving security company based in Morgantown, West Virginia. His journey from college student to business owner reflects not only his determination but also a keen eye for seizing opportunities.
Safe Now Security & Fire: Providing Peace of Mind
Safe Now specializes in a range of security solutions, including home and business monitoring, fire protection, and high-definition camera systems. With the rapid advancement of security technology, Safe Now offers cutting-edge equipment like 8K cameras and night vision capabilities that ensure safety in both well-lit and low-light environments. These solutions are critical for businesses and homeowners alike, especially in areas where security risks can vary.
Under Ashton’s leadership, Safe Now is not just a service provider; it’s a growing brand that focuses on personalized client relationships. “I enjoy the networking aspect of my business,” Ashton shared, reflecting his passion for connecting with people and building lasting relationships. His role in sales allows him to drive business growth by getting involved in local events, such as those hosted by the Morgantown Area Partnership, and regional networks like the Pittsburgh Business Exchange.
Networking and Expanding Safe Now
Ashton’s entrepreneurial mindset is what sets him apart. While many young professionals might be hesitant to jump into business ownership, Ashton saw Safe Now as an opportunity and decided to take the plunge. “I liked the idea of running my own company and networking with clients,” Ashton explained. He recognized the importance of putting himself out there, attending networking events, and developing meaningful connections to grow the business.
Challenges of Entrepreneurship: The Hiring Dilemma
Despite his success, Ashton admits that there are challenges. The biggest hurdle he faces right now is hiring. “I’d love to have a full sales team and more technicians to help meet demand,” he said, noting that while business is growing, finding the right people has proven difficult.
This isn’t a unique challenge for small businesses, especially in specialized industries like security. Ashton is committed to building a team that will allow Safe Now to expand beyond Morgantown, with potential locations in nearby Uniontown, PA, and Wheeling, WV.
Leadership and Mentorship: A Family Affair
For Ashton, leadership skills have been honed through both experience and mentorship. His father plays a pivotal role as his mentor, guiding him in business decisions and offering feedback when needed. Ashton also credits his fraternity at West Liberty for shaping his leadership abilities and teaching him the value of surrounding himself with positive influences. “Surrounding yourself with good people who support you is key,” he shared.
This mindset has not only contributed to Ashton’s personal growth but also to his success in managing Safe Now. He believes that leadership is about patience, resilience, and creating an environment where both the business and the team can thrive.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Safe Now
Ashton’s long-term vision for Safe Now includes expanding the company’s footprint to new locations and continuing to adopt the latest in security technology. With plans to graduate next year, Ashton is excited about taking Safe Now to the next level, focusing on both business growth and community involvement.
His story serves as an inspiration for young entrepreneurs in West Virginia. Ashton is proof that with hard work, networking, and a clear vision, it’s possible to create your own opportunity—even as a college student.
