Randy Hinders, IT Director, Mile Two

What was your first job?

Afternoon paper delivery route. This was great at teaching responsibilities and accountabilities. It’s a shame that these types of opportunities for teens are not as easily available today.

What’s the best career advice you ever received?

My dad told me as I joined the Army. Volunteer for everything. Sometimes you will get a crap job, and I did, and sometimes you will get an awesome assignment. Which I have. I raise my hand for those technical challenges that will push my understanding of a topic or business process so that I learn and grow. Sometimes they stink and might not be successful, other times they are wonderful experiences making lifelong friends in other areas of business that I would not have seen had I just stayed in my cube.

What advice would you give to aspiring IT leaders?

First, remember that it is about your team and not you. If your team is successful, only then will you be successful. Second, know and be yourself. Do not try to be someone you aren’t but do bring on people who can and will fill in your shortcomings.