Michael Harrell
COO, Forge Institute
MY FIRST JOB AND WHAT IT TAUGHT ME
Boy Scouts Summer Camp staff member. It taught me to lead by example, adapt when plans changed and take responsibility for others. Most importantly, a positive attitude can be contagious under almost any circumstances.
HOW I KNEW THIS WAS MY PASSION
As a former service member, I knew I wanted to keep serving after my time in uniform. Forge gave me a way to bring people together, develop talent and help our communities meet the challenges ahead.
BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN MY CAREER
The single greatest challenge wasn’t building a team from scratch, it was right-sizing one. Growth is addictive. When times are good, scaling is exciting, and hiring feels like progress. But markets change, company priorities pivot and organizational drift happens subtly.
A SKILL I NEVER EXPECTED TO USE IN THIS FIELD
Campfire stories. Data can show you a problem, but a story helps people care enough to solve it. I’ve learned to explain the human stakes behind the work we do.
ONE THING I WISH PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT MY COMPANY
Cybersecurity is just the tip of the spear. We facilitate public-private partnerships to support national security, which is a local issue. Workforce strength, infrastructure and businesses matter. Forge helps communities prepare for what’s next.
HOW I UNPLUG AFTER A LONG DAY AT WORK
I plug in a Traeger whenever possible and spend as much time in my yard as I can.
BEST ADVICE I EVER RECEIVED
Following the notion that character is what you do when no one is looking.
NONPROFIT I WISH MORE PEOPLE KNEW ABOUT
The Natural State Council, Scouting America. The organization continues to teach young people about character, service and duty to God and country.
BEST CAREER MOMENT SO FAR
Initial hiring at Forge Institute and promotion to chief operating officer.
IN THE DETAILS:
Hometown: Conway
Favorite Local Purchase: Mexican spare ribs at Del Campo
Little Rock’s Hidden Gem: Ozark Outdoor Supply
Sunday Routine: Coffee with my wife, time in our flowerbeds/yard and making dinner with my wife
Favorite Local Dish: Short rib bolognese from George’s
501.580.1403 | [email protected]
600 E. Capitol Ave., Little Rock
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