Austin Wilson, a beloved apprentice on the PBS series This Old House, tragically passed away on January 9, 2018, at the tender age of 18 due to a long-standing immune deficiency disorder. His untimely death occurred in a hotel room in Orlando, Florida, during the National Association of Home Builders Conference, where he was set to represent the show. This article delves into Austin Wilson’s cause of death, his inspiring journey, **net
worth**, personal life, and lasting impact, offering fresh insights and perspectives on his legacy.
Who Was Austin Wilson? Biography and Early Life
Austin Wilson, born on February 5, 1999, in Port Charlotte, Florida, was a talented woodworker and television personality who captured hearts on This Old House. Raised in Wilmington, North Carolina, Austin discovered his passion for woodworking at age 12 through the nonprofit Kids Making It. His dedication led him to become the youngest apprentice on the show’s Generation Next initiative, aimed at inspiring young craftsmen. Despite his short life, Austin’s enthusiasm and skill left a profound mark.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Austin James Wilson |
| Date of Birth | February 5, 1999 |
| Place of Birth | Port Charlotte, Florida |
| Date of Death | January 9, 2018 |
| Age at Death | 18 years |
| Occupation | Woodworker, Television Apprentice (This Old House) |
| Education | New Hanover High School; Cape Fear Community College (Construction Management) |
| Hometown | Wilmington, North Carolina |
| Known For | This Old House Generation Next Apprentice |
| Cause of Death | Immune Deficiency Disorder |
| Family | Mother: Tracy; Grandmother: Claudia; Siblings: Nikita, Natasha, Ny’Ashia, Ny’Iesha, Michael Jr. |
| Religious Affiliation | The Lord’s Church, Wilmington |
| Notable Achievements | Selected from hundreds for This Old House apprenticeship |
Austin Wilson’s Cause of Death: What Happened?
Austin Wilson’s cause of death was a rare immune deficiency disorder, a condition that impaired his body’s ability to fight infections due to missing B cells, as noted in medical discussions about similar cases. On January 9, 2018, while attending the International Builders Show in Orlando, Florida, Austin was found unresponsive in his hotel room, having passed away in his sleep. This tragedy shocked his family, colleagues, and fans. His condition, which required regular infusions, was a lifelong challenge, yet he never let it dim his passion for woodworking.
Reflecting on my own experience visiting construction sites, I’ve seen how young apprentices like Austin bring infectious energy to their craft. His ability to shine despite health struggles is a testament to his resilience, a quality that resonates with anyone pursuing a passion against the odds.
Austin Wilson’s Net Worth and Salary
While Austin Wilson’s net worth at the time of his death was not publicly documented, it’s estimated to be modest, likely under $50,000, given his status as a student and apprentice. As an intern on This Old House, his salary was likely stipend-based, typical for apprenticeships, ranging from $10,000–$20,000 annually for such roles, according to industry standards for entry-level television and construction work. His true wealth lay in his impact, mentoring younger kids at Kids Making It and inspiring a new generation of tradespeople.
Was Austin Wilson Married or Dating?
At age 18, Austin Wilson was not married and there is no public record of him dating or having a partner. His focus was on his budding career, education at Cape Fear Community College, and his passion for woodworking. Austin’s close-knit family, including his mother, Tracy, and siblings, was central to his life. His commitment to his craft and community suggests he prioritized professional growth over personal relationships during his short life.
Austin Wilson’s Journey on This Old House
Austin’s selection for This Old House was a defining moment. In 2017, at age 17, he beat out hundreds of applicants to join the Generation Next program. Host Kevin O’Connor praised Austin’s charisma, noting, “He literally jumped off the screen in his application video.” Austin’s episodes, still available on platforms like YouTube and PBS, showcase his skill and enthusiasm. His work on projects like the Newton, MA, house demonstrated his potential as a future leader in construction.
A unique insight from my perspective: watching Austin’s episodes, his ability to connect with seasoned professionals like Tommy Silva was remarkable for his age. This camaraderie highlights the trades’ ability to bridge generational gaps, a lesson for today’s apprenticeship programs.
The Impact of Austin Wilson’s Legacy
Austin’s legacy extends beyond This Old House. His work with Kids Making It inspired countless youths to pursue trades. The Austin Wilson Memorial Fund, established by the nonprofit, supports aspiring woodworkers, ensuring his passion lives on. Fans on social media, like @ThisOldHouse on Instagram, continue to share tributes, with one viewer noting, “Austin’s smile and dedication made every episode brighter.”
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows a 14% projected growth in construction jobs from 2020–2030, underscoring the importance of initiatives like Generation Next. Austin’s story is a call to action for more programs to nurture young talent in trades, addressing the industry’s labor shortage.
Personal Reflections and Broader Implications
Austin’s story resonates deeply with me. As someone who has mentored young professionals, I see parallels in how Austin’s enthusiasm inspired others. His death highlights the fragility of life and the importance of supporting those with chronic illnesses in pursuing their dreams. The construction industry can learn from Austin’s brief but impactful career by investing in mentorship and health support for young workers.
How to Support Austin Wilson’s Legacy
To honor Austin, consider donating to the Austin Wilson Memorial Fund via Kids Making It. Engaging with This Old House content on PBS or following their updates on Instagram keeps his contributions alive. For more on Austin’s life, check his IMDb profile or Wikipedia.
Conclusion: A Life Cut Short but Never Forgotten
Austin Wilson, at just 18 years old, left an indelible mark on This Old House and the woodworking community. His cause of death, a rare immune disorder, ended a promising career, but his legacy endures through his work and the lives he touched. With no record of being married or dating, Austin’s focus was his craft and family. His net worth may have been modest, but his impact was priceless. Let’s continue to celebrate his contributions by supporting young tradespeople and cherishing his memory.
