Where there’s a spark, there’s a way. For Michael Hansberry, vice president of the central Arkansas division at Baldwin & Shell, a sparked interest in science as a child and a natural curiosity caught fire, resulting in an impressive resume and career in residential and commercial construction.
Hansberry continues to fuel his passion for construction through the daily use of science, technology, engineering and math, as well as through supporting organizations like the Museum of Discovery, where he served on the board of directors for multiple years and participated in projects like the Tesla Theater, Tinkerfest and Spark! Gala. Next month, Hansberry will be recognized in this year’s class of MoD Spark! Stars honoring Arkansans for their innovations in STEM fields.
Soirée spoke with Hansberry ahead of the gala to discuss his STEM inspirations, the importance of encouraging exploration and MoD’s signature Spark! event.
How did you begin your career in STEM?
MH: Science classes were always my favorite in school, and as far as I can remember, all of my career interests were science and/or sports related. My initial interest was in residential construction, but my degree in construction management is commercial and heavy highway construction focused. I began my career in residential construction as a framer while in college. I built upon that experience by building houses for a large residential company in Dallas and Fort Worth prior to the housing crisis of 2008. I had an opportunity to come back home to build my career in commercial construction and haven’t looked back since.
Tell us about your involvement with MoD.
MH: I’ve been involved with the museum since 2013-2014. I was the project manager who worked with [CEO Kelley Bass] and the whole team on coordinating and building the Tesla Theater along with several other projects. We developed a great working relationship, which led to being asked to join the board of directors. I served with the board of directors for several years where I was able to participate in multiple MoD events.
Can you share any details about upcoming MoD exhibits?
MH: I’m very excited about the new museum layout and exhibits. They’re very inviting and the MoD team continues to evolve to engage the children of our community.
How does the mission of the museum resonate with you and inspire your work?
MH: The mission of the MoD relates directly to the construction industry today by providing fun and exciting activities for our children to engage and ignite their interests in the STEM disciplines. It is those children with a passion for the STEM disciplines that will be the future doers and leaders of the construction industry and other leading sectors of our economy.
What are some ways the MoD encourages learning and engaging in STEM fields?
MH: By providing an inviting atmosphere with hands-on activities that stimulate our natural interests in STEM-related disciplines.
STEM fields are ever-changing. How does the MoD stay relevant and up to date?
MH: The Museum of Discovery is constantly evolving and utilizing different methods of outreach as well as updating the exhibits and galleries as needed to generate interest.
You’ve worked with different teams in many settings across a highly technical field. What are some qualities you would encourage students to focus on to further themselves in education and a potential STEM career?
MH: I’m a big advocate of teamwork. It’s essential to accomplishing every project that I’ve ever been a part of. I also encourage students to focus on all of the core subjects: reading, math, science and communication. Continue to build upon them as much as possible, and have fun while learning.
You’re a dad to two boys. Do you bring them to the museum? If so, what do you all enjoy most while there?
MH: Absolutely. They both like to attend Tinkerfest with me and my wife Katrina, which typically starts off with them volunteering for a short period, but transitions to them wondering and tinkering with the many hands-on activities provided. One of their favorite activities is the car take-apart.
You’ve been with Baldwin & Shell since 2016. How has working in construction changed the way you view STEM and institutions like MoD?
MH: STEM is at the core of what our teams do every day. There are science, technology, engineering and math components in all that we do. The advances in technology are really changing our industry for the better. It’s making job sites safer and allowing us to build models of projects prior to mobilizing onsite, which helps our teams be more efficient once a project breaks ground.
Do you have a favorite moment from your career so far?
MH: The highlight of my career thus far has been having the opportunity to go back to my high school campus 16 years after I graduated and lead the construction efforts for the new campus build.
Did you have any influences in STEM growing up?
MH: My grandpa was my biggest STEM inspiration. He was constantly tinkering, building and fixing everything. His projects ranged from construction to automotive, farming, farm equipment — you name it. He always had an ongoing project and there was always something to learn from him. He seemed to have a grasp of how everything worked and was a natural problem solver. I’ve always aspired to be more like him.
Why do you believe it’s important to teach kids about STEM?
MH: The STEM fields encourage exploration and curiosity in us all, especially our children. They’re the building blocks of innovation and development.
Tell us about Spark!
MH: Spark! is the Museum of Discovery’s largest annual fundraising event. It highlights local doers who are dedicated to their STEM discipline(s) while coming together for a great cause.
What are you most looking forward to at the event?
MH: I’ve been to a few Spark! events over the past few years. I always enjoy walking around the different museum galleries. We seem to always run into friends, colleagues and associates, so I’m already looking forward to seeing everyone.
Spark! Gala
Benefiting the Museum of Discovery
Nov. 7, 6:30 p.m. | Museum of Discovery
Info: museumofdiscovery.org/spark2023