Family-Fueled, Female-Led: The Journey of the Mother-Daughter Duo Behind Davis Custom Trailers
Karen Davis’s journey into the trailer industry began with a simple idea and a lot of grit. Starting in a rented garage while working from home, Karen built Davis Custom Trailers from the ground up. Her hard work eventually led to the purchase of their first commercial property and the growth of the business into what it is today. With over a decade of experience, Karen has worn many hats—from hands-on factory work, sales, to running the shop—and continues to manage all aspects of the company with tireless dedication.
A New Generation of Innovation
Joining her mother in the business, Sam Davis brings a fresh perspective with her background in mechanical engineering. Sam has worked at Davis Custom Trailers for about two and a half years, part-time and full-time since graduating after her first job. Her focus has been on improving shop processes, implementing new technologies, and ensuring efficient day-to-day operations. She introduced a check-in/check-out system for tools, implemented Slack for internal communication, and created a system where repair videos are shared to ensure transparency and quality control.
Empowering Women in a Male-Dominated Industry
Both Karen and Sam have encountered challenges as women in the trailer industry, a field traditionally dominated by men. Karen notes that while she has experienced condescension or dismissal, especially in the early years, she never let it deter her. Karen shares that being a woman in this industry was tough at first, but she has built relationships and earned respect through hard work. Sam, too, faced challenges during her engineering education, where she was one of just a few women in her classes. “You just have to be resilient and keep trying,” Sam advises. “Don’t let something small stop you from continuing.”
A Dynamic Duo with Complementary Strengths
Despite their different personalities, Karen is outgoing and thrives in customer-facing roles, while Sam prefers behind-the-scenes operations, their collaboration has strengthened the business. Karen’s ability to connect with customers and vendors has been crucial to the company’s growth, while Sam’s methodical approach ensures the shop runs smoothly and efficiently.
Karen credits her daughter with bringing in new ideas and improving their operations. “Sam has helped push us into the future,” she says. Meanwhile, Sam admires her mom’s work ethic and fun-loving spirit. “She always says, ‘Work hard, play hard. Just let it go and have fun, and you can always try again,’ and it’s something I’ve tried to live by.”
Shaping the Future Through Industry Involvement
Both Karen and Sam are active in the broader trailer industry. They’ve participated in the Dexter Council, a group of 10 dealers brought together by Dexter to offer feedback and find solutions to common challenges. This involvement has led to networking with key industry players and even being featured in a commercial by Dexter.
They also attend NATM conventions, where they’ve received training and connected with engineers and suppliers. These experiences have not only enhanced their knowledge but also strengthened the business by exposing them to best practices and new technologies.
Karen’s commitment to shaping the next generation of skilled workers is another way she gives back to the community. Each year, she hires a few high school students, lovingly referred to as “the Minions”, and teaches them how to use tools properly, learn basic welding, change tires, and understand shop processes. “Not everybody’s going to go to college,” Karen said, “so we make sure they graduate high school [with a real skillset].” Some students move on after graduation, but others stay and grow within the company. Two of these students will even accompany her to Tennessee in August to take certifications and begin welding school. “We’re molding this young generation,” Karen said proudly. “We have to teach them how to be productive members of society, [and I think we’ve done a good job at that].”
Life Beyond the Shop
Outside of work, both Karen and Sam embrace active lifestyles in their own unique ways. Karen found a new lease on life through health and fitness, transforming herself through bodybuilding and embracing the outdoors with activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Sam, on the other hand, is an avid hiker and traveler who enjoys exploring nature and hitting the bike trails across Florida, especially when industry events allow her to combine learning and adventure.
Advice for Aspiring Women in the Industry
When asked what advice they’d give to other women entering the trailer industry, both Karen and Sam emphasize perseverance and passion. Karen urges women to “never give up. If you want it bad enough, you’re going to get it” and to take pride in their accomplishments, no matter how small. Sam adds, “There are always people watching you, it’s important to follow through, [your resilience can inspire others].”
Looking Ahead
Karen and Sam are not just running a business, they’re creating a legacy. Their work at Davis Custom Trailers is proof that with hard work, determination, and a bit of trailblazing spirit, women can thrive in any industry. Whether it’s improving internal processes or building industry relationships, this mother-daughter team is redefining what it means to lead in the trailer world.
Karen and Sam are NATM'S May #WomanCrushWednesday! In celebration of Mother's Day!
