Wesley Adkins: Cookeville Realtor Building Community and Business in the Upper Cumberland

Becoming a real estate agent in Cookeville is much like starting your own business. It requires hustle, networking, long hours, and persistence — often without immediate financial return. Wesley Adkins understands that reality well, and he thrives in it.

Born and raised in Cookeville, Wesley earned a degree in Human Ecology with a concentration in Housing and Design from Tennessee Tech University in 2012. After graduation, he moved to Nashville, where he managed a successful chain of restaurants. In 2018, an opportunity to return home and open Cookeville’s Panera Bread presented itself, and Wesley jumped at the chance to invest back into his hometown.

But one full time leadership role was not enough for the driven entrepreneur.

In 2021, while managing Panera Bread in Cookeville, Wesley earned his real estate license and began building his career in the Upper Cumberland real estate market. Now working with Highlands Real Estate, he has taken a grassroots approach to growing his client base.

“I got out there and put boots on the ground,” Wesley said.

That commitment to visibility and service is evident across the community. Wesley is a Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, a member of the Cookeville Jaycees, a regular volunteer with Habitat for Humanity and Heart of the Cumberland, and an active member of the Putnam County Fair Board. His involvement throughout Cookeville has helped him build authentic relationships while establishing himself as a trusted local REALTOR®.

Clocking 70 to 80 hours per week between real estate, business leadership, and community service, Wesley’s work ethic sets him apart in the Upper Cumberland real estate market.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Wesley and his partner Ben Gamby are preparing for an exciting new chapter. The couple recently completed foster care training and, following their home study approval, will be eligible to welcome a foster child into their home.

With a rapidly growing real estate career, deep community involvement, and a commitment to service, Wesley Adkins continues to make a lasting impact on Cookeville and the Upper Cumberland.

— By Chelsea Dartez
Photos by Cris Stroud
Styled by Seth Overton

You can follow Wesley at https://www.instagram.com/wesleyknowsbusiness.