Top 50 Under 40 Chris Rapp

This year OED is recognizing and celebrating Frederick County’s young professionals who are leaders in their industry, give back to the community and add significant value to their company and its culture. Join us as we get to know our Top 50 Under 40.


Chris Rapp, 39
President
Triple Crown Construction
5115 Pegasus Court, Suite D, Frederick
www.triplecrownconstruction.com

Chris is a loving husband and proud father who has led Triple Crown Construction since 2013. He is a graduate of LFC and an entrepreneur. His genuine and passionate approach to business has launched multiple new endeavors. Chris enjoys giving guidance and assistance to other young professionals in business and is dedicated to helping his community thrive.

What has been your greatest professional accomplishment? 

My greatest professional accomplishment has been learning to embrace the journey. There will be good days, tough years, and everything in between. Embrace it, have fun and find happiness. This discovery has provided me with an entirely new perspective on leadership. 

Name one award you are most proud to have received.

I proudly display the Visionary Leadership Award in my office as a visible reminder that I have an awesome group of people who support me. The employees at Triple Crown Construction unexpectedly presented it to me at an annual holiday party.

What is your experience with volunteering and civic engagement? What is your experience with volunteering and civic engagement?

I am a current board member for the Frederick County Building Industry Association and the Maryland Hotel Lodging Association. I’m also active in non-leadership roles with other organizations and trade associations.

What was your first job?

My first job was mowing lawns in my neighborhood.

Who is your greatest influence?

My parents have been the most influential to me. From a young age through adulthood I have observed their work ethic, commitment, passion, perseverance, and support. While all these qualities are now deeply ingrained in me, I have also been influenced by some fantastic coaches and mentors. With their help I have become more self-aware and how my core values influence my actions.

What do you like to do for fun in Frederick County?

For fun I enjoy family outings to local parks and events; eating at favorite restaurants and trying new ones; visiting the local breweries/distilleries; exploring the local architecture; and learning more about the rich history of Frederick County.

What leadership book would you recommend and why?

I would recommend reading every leadership book that sounds good – or doesn’t. Every leadership book helps in one way or another. There is no silver bullet and total solution. I try to read as many as possible to draw great info, tips, advice, etc. and apply as appropriate. Some things work and some don’t.

What behavior or personality trait do you most attribute to your success and why?

I contribute a lot of my success to simply being adaptable (while always staying true to my core values). This has allowed me to analyze and assess situations with more options. While a tried and true solution may work, a creative approach my result in a better or more efficient solution. I’ve embraced creative solutions by simply being open to new ideas and adapting to new ways. The path to success is never a straight line.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Having fun and enjoying life!