Austin is a born and bred Texan and was raised in Lubbock, Texas. His family has lived and worked in West Texas for several generations. After graduating from Lubbock High School, Austin attended Texas Tech University and majored in Political Science. During his undergrad years, Austin was honored to have the opportunity to have been a member of the legendary Saddle Tramps, keepers of Texas Tech traditions. Austin also worked full-time as a banker for Wells Fargo Bank while attending college. During his senior year at Texas Tech, Austin interned for Congressman Henry Cuellar in Washington D.C. During his time in D.C., Austin was tasked with legislative research, memo preparation, and he served as a liaison to various committees and the United States Senate.