Nicole ''Nikki'' Hancock Caldwell Recognized as an Entrepreneur in Entertainment and Hospitality
ROLLA, MO, October 01, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- C. Nicole Hancock Caldwell has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.
Ms. Hancock Caldwell has established herself as a dedicated entrepreneur and business owner, having served as the owner of Ole Mule Axes n' Fun since 2024. Her venture, located on the historic Route 66, is a testament to her commitment to revitalizing local culture and providing unique recreational experiences. With activities for everyone from young children and adults, she takes pride in promoting a family-friendly business. In addition to her flagship location, she expanded her entrepreneurial footprint by acquiring Como Axe Attack in Columbia, Missouri, further diversifying her business interests within the entertainment sector. Both establishments focus on axe throwing, with Ole Mule Axes n' Fun also offering a restaurant component.
Ms. Hancock Caldwell's decision to open Ole Mule Axes n' Fun was influenced by her desire to support her stepfather during an unexpected economic challenge, as he owns the building where her business operates. This act of familial support underscores the values of dedication and resilience that have defined her professional journey. She considers opening her own business to be her most notable achievement, a lifelong aspiration realized through perseverance and hard work.
Prior to launching her own business, Ms. Hancock Caldwell built a substantial career at Baron Aviation, where she served as operations supervisor for 16 years. This company, contracted with FedEx, specialized in air cargo transport using leased Cessna 208 Caravans. She began her tenure there as a dispatcher and steadily advanced through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional multitasking abilities and operational expertise.
Throughout her career, Ms. Hancock Caldwell's expertise in multitasking has been instrumental in managing multiple business ventures and overseeing daily operations. She has also furthered her network through professional membership in both the St. James Chamber of Commerce and the Rolla Chamber of Commerce.
Academically, Ms. Hancock Caldwell completed college coursework following her graduation with a high school diploma. The discipline and work ethic instilled in her by her stepfather, as a lifelong entrepreneur himself, has served as a guiding influence throughout her education and career. She credits his example of early mornings and long hours as pivotal in shaping her approach to business ownership.
Ms. Hancock Caldwell's entrepreneurial spirit is deeply rooted in family tradition. Her biological father, stepfather, brother, two close cousins and uncle have all owned their own businesses. This legacy fostered an environment where entrepreneurship was viewed as both natural and necessary. Today, she wants to further develop Ole Mule Axes n' Fun as a continuation of the Route 66 legend. By situating her business along this iconic highway, she seeks to contribute to preserving its historical significance while offering modern entertainment options.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Ms. Hancock Caldwell is an avid farmer, a pursuit she regards as her greatest personal achievement. She owns 140 acres of farmland out of a total 340-acre property that once belonged to her grandfather Chester "Ted" Hancock. With plans to acquire additional acreage from family members, she anticipates expanding her holdings to 220 acres in the future. Farming remains her favorite activity and serves as a meaningful connection to her family heritage.
In her personal life, Ms. Hancock Caldwell enjoys spending time with her two sons, Tripp & Easton. In addition to farming, she is also an avid softball player and remains committed to personal growth and community involvement. Looking ahead, she aims to expand her business ventures by opening additional locations, further solidifying her role as an innovative leader in both the agriculture and entertainment industries.
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Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.
