Gabe Parker from Assembly Required

Gabe Parker

Maker: Episode 6

Gabe is a salt-of-the-earth father, builder, mechanic and designer. Humble and hardworking, this innovative maker has a big heart, a big beard and an even bigger passion for working with his hands. He grew up in Georgia, and often visited his grandparents’ farm in Tennessee where he learned to harvest tobacco and drive a tractor at 7 or 8 years old. His childhood consisted of building go-karts and fishing. He also grew up going to auctions and antique shows, and developed an appreciation for architecture and design. His father was a master mechanic, and Gabe even ran his father’s business for years. Gabe always enjoyed working on classic and exotic show cars. He also built the house that he currently lives in himself. Gabe learned early on from his father that it makes no sense to pay someone else to do something that he can do himself.

After his children were born, Gabe went from driving Ferraris to a minivan, as he transitioned to a new role as a stay-at-home dad. Now, he runs multiple businesses from his home, including a small farm, a guest house Airbnb and his Etsy shop. He also takes on automotive repair gigs on the side. While his Etsy shop features great innovative pieces, he also builds high-end custom one-of-a-kind pieces.