ISU student’s company creates unique tees

Brady Trent seems like an average Iowa State University freshman, but behind his fresh-faced smile is the mind of an entrepreneur.

Trent is the owner of BTangible, an online T-shirt business he started as a 17-year-old Ankeny Centennial High School student.

“Ever since I was a kid, I wanted to have my own business. My ultimate goal in life is to make a billion dollars,” Trent said.

Now a mechanical engineer major at ISU, Trent works closely with a supplier who fulfills all of his T-shirt orders and another business that designs the shirts. Trent focuses on marketing and generating orders.

“I have crazy T-shirts in full print. The best-selling one I have is a giant ear of corn. It’s perfect for Iowans,” he said.

Most of Trent’s customers are college students who love his quirky T-shirts, but he sees customers from all walks of life.

“People want to stand out; they want to wear something out of the ordinary,” he said.

Entrepreneurship runs deep in Trent’s family. He recently teamed up with his brother to launch a joint business focusing on mini disc golf.

“He likes to be hands on, whereas I’m good with the business and operational side, so together, we make a good combination,” Trent said. “We discovered the idea for mini disc golf and thought it was cool. I just went disc golfing for the first time a bit ago. It’s an awesome sport and growing.”

Jared Trent, a senior at Iowa State, designed a mini disc golf basket and the brothers are selling it under their joint business. They co-manage their Facebook page and team up on business decisions, but bring their individual expertise to the business.

“My brother was talking with Ames Parks and Rec about getting a mini disc golf course set up here,” Jared Trent said. “It’s been a lot of fun using both of our skill sets. We’re a powerful team.”

While the youngest Trent continues running his successful T-shirt business and working closely with his brother with their new endeavor, he has his sights set on making a difference in the business world.

“Mechanical engineering teaches you how to solve problems and I want to build factory-type production facilities for the manufacturing sector. I also study economics and business, so I know how everything works on both the ground floor, as well as with the business side of things. I’d tell other kids, if you have an idea, go and do something about it. Take action. Don’t sit and wonder if you can do it — take a risk. You’ll never know unless you go for it.”

BTangible

WHAT: Loose fit, obnoxious, and full print clothing that will make you stand out of the crowd.

WHERE: Based in Ames

CONTACT:Btangible.com, 515-257-6926, customerservice@btangible.com