20 Under 40: Travis McKinley

Photo by Nathan Ham

Travis’ companies work with Mirror Topeka, which is a re-entry program for those who have been incarcerated. They give these men and women a second chance by teaching them a viable trade and helping them become productive members of the Topeka community.

Travis volunteers his time with multiple organizations from the Topeka Rescue Missions' Children's Palace, where he brought 20 of his employees to finish the project when the timeline wasn't going to be met, to serving as an organizer and athlete with the Topeka Scottish Highland Games.

What do you see as your role in making Topeka a better place to live and work? Nothing that I have done as an individual has equated to success on its own. I have a strong work ethic, and I try to lead by example, but without countless others, I wouldn't be where I am today. I try to follow three basic rules that have really summed up my approach to all areas of life. I don't ask anyone to do something that I am unwilling to do myself. I don't talk down to anyone. I don't let anyone else talk down to me.

Where do you see Topeka in 10 years?I hope Topeka can become an example to the rest of the country on how to respect each other.