Karen is a lifelong Republican, raised on conservative rural values by her hardworking parents, Jim and Sylvia Fann. She moved with her family to Prescott in 1958 and fell in love with the people, communities and landscapes of Northern Arizona.
Growing up in a family with a strong work ethic made it natural for Karen to start her own business. Karen launched Arizona Highway Safety Specialists, Inc. in 1984 - with just $500 of her own cash. Her drive and determination to succeed has turned today’s AHSS into Arizona’s largest installer of roadway guardrails and signage. Owner and CEO Karen now employs 40 at her successful business, and AHSS will celebrate its 25th Anniversary in October 2010.
Karen and husband Jim McKown also owned and operated the FANN-M Ranch for nearly a decade. The FANN-M, an equine facility, boarded horses and produced equine competitions. Karen and Jim also worked closely with area 4-H Clubs and other nonprofits to organize and sponsor community fundraisers at the Ranch.
Prior to becoming a local business owner, Karen gained four years of experience in the legal field and ten in the airport/ airline industry; she later obtained her license as an Arizona Realtor. She is a licensed contractor in good standing with the Arizona Registrar of Contractors; past president of Yavapai County Contractors Association; and past president, Prescott Chapter, of the National Association of Women in Construction.
Her dedication to community led Karen to serve on numerous committees and boards, representing both the Quad-Cities area and the Town of Chino Valley, where she was Mayor for six years. Her four years of service on the Prescott City Council included Mayor Pro Tem.
Proven, dedicated leadership and civic service.
- 11 years Public Service - Prescott City Council & Chino Valley Mayor
- Area small business owner for 25 years
- Chair, Upper Verde River Watershed Protection Coalition
- Chair, Central Yavapai Metropolitan Planning Organization (CYMPO)
- Northern Council of Government (8 years)
- BQAZ Statewide Transportation Board
- Governor’s Rural Water Legislative Study Committee
- Governor’s Commission on Non-Traditional Employment for Women
- President, Yavapai County Contractors Association