From Classroom to Company: Carson Houg ('22)

One bucket, a few supplies from Lowe’s, and a $90 window-cleaning job. That’s how Premier Exterior Care began for Carson Houg (‘22) and fellow alumnus Gavin Phillips (‘23). Today, the company operates in both Des Moines and Iowa City, has completed  more than 1,280 jobs, and employs several fellow DMC alumni—a testament to the  friendships and work ethic forged during their years at Des Moines Christian.

Built on a Strong Foundation

Carson’s DMC journey began in kindergarten, where his mother also taught and now serves as a substitute teacher. He credits the school’s close-knit community, caring teachers, and hands-on learning experiences with preparing him for the future.

“DMC thoroughly prepared me for real life—socially, spiritually, and academically.”

Whether creating business plans or competing as a TAG scholar and standout athlete, Carson was challenged to think creatively and pursue excellence. Mrs. Chelsea Vetter helped develop his entrepreneurial mindset, while Cross Country Coaches Andrew Hamer and Annie Pettit modeled authentic leadership and personal investment in students.

“My teachers and coaches took the time to invest in every one of us.”

Turning Ideas into Reality 

After graduating from DMC in 2022, Carson attended the University of Iowa, where he earned degrees in finance and risk management and insurance while receiving  numerous academic and athletic honors. During college, he and Gavin launched Premier Exterior Care. Today, the business employs several DMC alumni, including Brayden Miesen (‘22), Ben Norris (‘23), Eli Boivin (‘22), Dutch Phillips (‘23), and Zayne Beal (‘23). Carson also developed a custom CRM software platform for the company, with plans to expand it for other businesses.

Whether on the track, in the classroom, or as a business owner, Carson continues to build on the foundation first established at Des Moines Christian—using his gifts, serving others, and pursuing excellence in every opportunity.