How Hands-On Work Built an Unlikely Career ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep8 w/ Mike Hastings

Описание: Mike Hastings shares his story about how hands-on work built an unlikely career on today's Hands-On Heroes episode 8 with Mike Hastings

#handsonheroes #podcast #leadershipjourney

Key Moments:
00:00 Welcome, Special Guest Mike Hastings!
00:36 Welcome to Hands-On Heroes with Val Crafton
02:40 Mike Hastings Introduces His Journey in Data Centers
04:03 Growing Up Without Mentors or a Safety Net
06:35 Life in Juvenile Detention and Starting From Zero
10:15 Survival Mode: Working Just to Get By
13:05 Val's Early Years On Site
16:10 First Exposure to Data Centers and Field Work
19:40 Learning by Asking Questions and Tagging Along
22:45 Why Data Centers Are More Complex Than They Look
24:55 Stepping Into Leadership and Mentoring Others
27:40 Going Back to School While Working and Raising a Family
30:10 From the Field to Building Teams and Programs
32:20 Creating the “New Boots” Workforce Program
35:20 Why Grit Beats Credentials in Mission Critical Work
38:10 Advice for Career Changers and Young Professionals
40:30 Against All Odds: Building the Future in Data Centers
42:20 Final Thoughts, Gratitude, and Closing

Mike Hastings didn’t take a straight line to success and that’s exactly what makes his story resonate. Without early mentorship or a clear path, Mike learned through experience, adversity, and a deep commitment to growth. What started as a warehouse job became an entry point into the world of data centers, where curiosity and hands-on learning turned into a lasting career.

On this episode of Hands On Heroes, Mike talks about learning in the field, stepping into leadership, and navigating moments of uncertainty while continuing to push forward. From technical environments to team development and business growth, his journey highlights the value of perseverance and adaptability in a rapidly evolving industry.

Now focused on developing others and giving back, Mike’s story reflects the heart of Hands On Heroes: real people, real work, and the impact of showing up with purpose.

Hands-On Heroes assembles the most powerful voices across construction, mission-critical infrastructure, power, and design – from general contractors and civil engineers to hyperscale developers, edge and modular data center operators, semiconductor facility builders, AI factory pioneers, MEP specialists, architects, and infrastructure leaders. Hands-On Heroes is a certified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to empowering children through early exposure to careers in the skilled trades. Our mission is to break stereotypes, promote representation, and introduce kids to the powerful and creative careers that keep our world moving from electricians and heavy equipment operators to carpenters, welders, and beyond.
Through Val’s 21+ years of industry experience, her Hands-On Heroes nonprofit, and her storytelling platforms, Val bridges the gap between boardrooms and jobsites, showing that the future of infrastructure isn’t just powered by data, it’s built by people.
This is where construction meets technology. Where blueprints become reality. Where every megawatt delivered, every rack energized, every facility commissioned, and every community engaged represents the heroic work of the Hands-On Heroes building our tomorrow.
Do you want to be a part of the mission?

Visit https://handsonheroes.net/ to learn more

Thank you Mod42 for being our Title Sponsor!