From Careers to Franchise Ownership
For many professionals, the thought of owning a business can be both thrilling and intimidating. The transition from a structured career to business ownership demands courage, adaptability, and a readiness to tackle new challenges. The stories of two franchisees, Trey Watten and Donny Carlton, stand as a testament that career shifts can lead to fulfilling and successful business ownership, inspiring others to leap.
One of the most compelling aspects of franchising—particularly in the youth enrichment space—is the ability to make a lasting impact on children and families in the community. Unlike traditional corporate careers, business ownership in this sector offers a unique opportunity to shape young lives, foster confidence, and create positive experiences that extend far beyond financial success.
Trey Watten: From Baseball and Accounting to Sylvan Learning Owner
Making the Leap to Franchising
Trey Watten’s journey to franchise ownership wasn’t direct. He first pursued a career in college baseball, where his talent on the field led him to be drafted into professional baseball. He went on to play minor league baseball for the Milwaukee Brewers Baseball Club, an experience that instilled in him discipline, perseverance, and leadership skills.
After his baseball career, Trey transitioned into accounting, a field that provided stability but lacked the sense of fulfillment he was seeking. His friend, Matthew Sullivan, who owns Sylvan Learning Centers in Abilene and Lubbock, introduced him to franchising. The opportunity to combine business ownership with an opportunity to work with kids convinced him that Sylvan was the right fit.
“I was looking for more than just a business—I wanted to make an impact. Supporting kids through Sylvan felt like the perfect fit.” Trey recalls.
While contemplating a career shift for some time, the opportunity arrived at just the right moment.
Overcoming Challenges and Adjusting to Business Ownership
Trey quickly learned that managing a business vastly differed from his experiences in baseball and accounting.
"Managing people while also operating is always the toughest aspect," he shares.
Despite the increased responsibilities, Trey finds the challenges of business ownership deeply rewarding. His background in accounting has proven invaluable in managing the financial aspects of his business, ensuring smooth operations and instilling a sense of optimism in his journey.
More importantly, owning a Sylvan Learning Center has allowed Trey to make a lasting impact on his community in a way he never could before. By helping students strengthen their academic skills and gain confidence, he sees firsthand the difference his work makes for local families. Beyond running a successful business, he is giving kids the tools they need to succeed in school and in life.
Success and Lessons Learned
For Trey, the most rewarding part of franchise ownership is overcoming challenges and emerging stronger. Having previously worked under Sullivan as a Center Director before becoming a franchisee, he had a chance to “dip his toe” into the business before fully committing.
His advice to those considering a franchise?
"Make sure you have stability and bite off what you can chew."
Donny Carlton: From Clinical Pathology Executive to Urban Air Owner
Why Urban Air?
With over three decades in the clinical pathology industry—10 years in sales and 21 in senior executive roles—Donny Carlton built a successful career. But after years of leading and growing a business for someone else, he realized he wanted to take on a new challenge: creating something of his own.
He initially explored the trampoline park industry but found most models too one-dimensional. Then, he came across Urban Air and scheduled a lunch with the brand’s founder, Michael Browning, Jr..
"I left the meeting with complete confidence that Urban Air was a perfect fit for me," Donny says.
He was drawn to the brand’s wide range of attractions, including a café and innovative entertainment options, making it more than just a trampoline park. More importantly, Urban Air aligned with his goal of creating a business that served families and allowed his own family to be involved.
Adapting to a New Role
Shifting from a corporate leadership position to business ownership was an adjustment. One of the biggest challenges for Donny was leaving behind the relationships and daily interactions that had defined his previous role.
"I was accustomed to having a large group of people lined up outside my office," he explains.
However, the transition also brought unexpected benefits. Owning his own business gave him flexibility and the ability to define his terms—something he had never experienced before.
But beyond business success, Donny discovered the joy of bringing families together through active play and entertainment. Urban Air isn’t just about fun—it provides a space where kids can build confidence, push their limits, and create lasting memories with their families. For Donny, that impact is one of the most fulfilling aspects of business ownership.
Applying Past Experience to Franchise Success
Donny’s extensive leadership background prepared him well for running his own business.
"Everything I learned has been transferrable," he says, listing skills in contracts, HR, sales, marketing, accounting, and banking as key assets.
The most fulfilling part of his journey has been building something from the ground up—creating a thriving business that supports his family and provides long-term security. But more than that, he takes pride in providing a place where kids can be active, socialize, and simply be kids in a safe environment.
Advice for Future Franchise Owners
Donny believes that preparation is key, but no amount of planning can shield a business owner from unexpected challenges—like the impact of COVID-19.
His biggest piece of advice? Learn from those who have already succeeded.
"Seek guidance from those who have already succeeded," he emphasizes. "Set aside pride and do whatever it takes to learn from the experiences of successful individuals."
The Common Thread: A Willingness to Take the Leap
Trey Watten and Donny Carlton came from vastly different professional backgrounds, yet they share a common trait: the courage to embrace change and bet on themselves. Their journeys into franchise ownership prove that a career shift into franchising can be both fulfilling and financially advantageous—with the right mindset, transferable skills, and a willingness to adapt.
But beyond personal success, their stories highlight something even greater—the ability to make an impact. Owning a franchise in the youth enrichment space offers a unique opportunity to change lives, bring families together, and create spaces where children can learn, grow, and thrive.
For anyone considering making the jump, their stories serve as a testament to the power of taking the leap—not just in business, but in shaping communities for the better.
