Hands-On Heroes with Valerie Crafton

Podfox Media
  • 5.0 (2)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

As the Voice for the people who build, innovate, and sustain mission-critical infrastructure, Hands-On Heroes introduces the Podcast Host, Val Crafton who is The Voice of Grit — a trailblazer at the intersection of technology, trades, and transformation. With over two decades in mission-critical construction, she’s made it her purpose to amplify the people behind the progress — the builders, engineers, and innovators shaping our digital world. 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.

  1. How To Find Fulfillment in Your Life & Work ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep. 8 with Mike Hastings

    FEB 12

    How To Find Fulfillment in Your Life & Work ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep. 8 with Mike Hastings

    From Juvenile Detention to Data Center Leadership: A Story of Redemption and Resilience 💪 The construction and technology industries are filled with unconventional success stories, but few are as powerful as Mike Hastings' journey. At 15, Mike found himself in the juvenile detention system—far from the traditional path to success. But his story didn't end there. It was just beginning. In the latest episode of Hands On Heroes, host Valerie Crafton sits down with Mike to explore his remarkable transformation from a warehouse worker at StorageTek to a sales leader at IES Communications, specializing in data center infrastructure. Mike's journey teaches us: Success doesn't require a perfect start—just persistence and a willingness to learnSeeking out mentors and volunteering your time can open doors you never imaginedGetting knocked down is inevitable; getting back up is what defines youTrue gratification comes from seeing the tangible impact of your work—and helping others find their pathMike navigated company acquisitions, earned his degree while working full-time, survived a layoff during COVID, and found his calling in an industry where you can literally point to the infrastructure you built and say, "I did that." Today, Mike is dedicated to giving back—mentoring the next generation and helping others discover the same opportunities he found in the construction and technology fields.

    43 min
  2. How To Become a Professional Crane Operator as a Woman In Trades with Tiffany Eckard ~Hands-On Heroes Ep 7

    JAN 29

    How To Become a Professional Crane Operator as a Woman In Trades with Tiffany Eckard ~Hands-On Heroes Ep 7

    Thinking about a career in crane operation? Professional Crane Operator, Tiffany Eckard shares why starting as an oiler apprentice might be your best move. An oiler apprenticeship isn't just an entry point—it's a strategic foundation for a long-term career in heavy equipment operation. While you're maintaining and servicing cranes, you're actually getting paid to learn from experienced operators, understanding the machinery from the ground up. What makes the oiler role so valuable: You gain hands-on knowledge of crane mechanics, hydraulics, and safety systems before you ever touch the controls. You build relationships with experienced operators who become mentors. You develop the situational awareness and safety mindset that's critical in this field. You're earning while you're learning, with a clear path to operator certification. Many of today's master crane operators started exactly here—greasing cables, checking fluid levels, and asking questions. They understood that you can't safely operate what you don't understand. If you're looking for a skilled trade with strong earning potential and job security, the crane industry is hiring. And the apprenticeship path remains one of the most reliable ways to build a successful career. With host Valerie Crafton, she also shares what she loves most about being a crane operator. At Hands-On Heroes, we are dedicated to inspiring the next generation of builders, makers, and doers. Through storytelling and STEM education, we promote the skilled trades and empower children to explore their potential.Thank you Mod42 for being our title sponsor! Learn more about Hands-On Heroes: https://handsonheroes.net/

    42 min
  3. Achieving Decarbonization in Digital Infrastructure

    JAN 15

    Achieving Decarbonization in Digital Infrastructure

    iMasons Climate Accord is a coalition of companies united on carbon reductions in digital infrastructure. Host Valerie Crafton of Hands On Heroes had the pleasure to interview attendees from the most recent iMasons Climate Accord Summit. This episode connects with leaders in the industry. People you'll hear from in this episode include: Alison Tyndall, Director of Industrial Innovations at ClimeCo Amir Ehsasei, Principle at Zamin Consulting LLCSarah Welton, Director at GRESB Foundation Patricia Leyva, Sustainability Enablement and Engagement at Equinix KC Mares, President and Chief Energy Officer at MegaWatt Consulting Inc. Eric Gertsman, Director of Tech Sustainability Louis Liu, Senior Sustainability Project Engineer at Rehlko Allan Bedwell, Principal at Net Zero Solutions Roland Ruprecht, Director and Commercial Lead at Teknor Apex Company Miranda G Gardiner, Executive Director at iMason Climate Accord.

    2h 50m
  4. Into Digital Infrastructure: iMasons Workforce Development Programs ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep5 w/ Hiba Agha

    JAN 1

    Into Digital Infrastructure: iMasons Workforce Development Programs ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep5 w/ Hiba Agha

    On this episode of Hands-On Heroes, special guest Hiba Agha discusses her role in iMasons and her career in nonprofit organizations.Infrastructure Masons (iMasons) is a global, nonprofit, professional association of individuals connected and empowered to build a greater digital future for all.Hiba shares how her role is focused on building awareness, education, and workforce development by connecting industry, educators, policy makers, and underrepresented talent like veterans, women, and foster youth. They dig into the challenges of scaling initiatives, creating stackable credentials, mentorship opportunities, and the iMasons job matching platform that helps students and professionals find relevant jobs and internships. Hiba explains how aligning stakeholders and standardizing resources across regions can strengthen the talent pipeline and foster real change. Whether you’re entering the tech workforce, hiring talent, or looking for ways to get involved, this episode offers practical strategies and inspiration to help shape the future of the digital infrastructure industry through partnership, education, and community engagement. 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. Visit https://handsonheroes.net/ to learn more Thank you Mod42 for being our Title Sponsor!

    1h 10m
  5. Building Confidence Through Construction ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep4 W/ Shannon Tymosko "Lady Voltz"

    12/18/2025

    Building Confidence Through Construction ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep4 W/ Shannon Tymosko "Lady Voltz"

    Shannon Tymosko is a 4th year Electrical Apprentice and proud sister of the IBEW Local 105, Hamilton. She is also a Skilled Trades Ambassador, Speaker, and an Advocate. She originally completed a Child and Youth work diploma and upon completion she worked at a homeless shelter for youth. Here she found compassion, empathy, hope and a better understanding of people and the challenges life can for Mental Health. Sadly, this job was not one that an individual could thrive on in the GTA and she needed to maintain her college job. This turned into a 10-year unplanned career, as she worked her way up through different positions. It wasn’t until the age of 29 that she discovered she liked working with her hands. As an ambassador for the trades this has allowed Shannon to combine her passion for people with her new love for the trades. She uses her voice, story, and platform to educate, motivate and inspire change in the industry and the minds of all. In this episode of Hands-On Heroes, Shannon discussed the challenges of accessing apprenticeships in Canada, noting that most participants are in their late 20s or early 30s, making it difficult for younger people to pursue them as a first career. She emphasized the importance of providing young people with opportunities to gain transferable skills, financial stability, and the chance to explore different career paths. Valerie highlighted the financial burdens of balancing work, education, and childcare, and suggested that apprenticeships could offer a solution by allowing learning during the day while children are in school. They also discussed the benefits of apprenticeships, including the development of critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of community. Shannon explained the steps involved in becoming an apprentice, including the difficulty of finding an apprenticeship position, which is often due to the requirement for employers to take on educational responsibilities.

    54 min
  6. How A Women Dominates A Male Dominated Field with Kate Glantz of Move Over Bob ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep3

    12/04/2025

    How A Women Dominates A Male Dominated Field with Kate Glantz of Move Over Bob ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep3

    Kate Glantz co-founder and CEO of Move Over Bob shares how, as a woman, you can dominate in a male dominated field. Her and host Valerie Crafton discuss what "Allyship in Action" really looks like. Kate is a social entrepreneur and brand builder on a mission to reshape what’s possible for women in the trades. She is the co-founder of Move Over Bob, a media and lifestyle company positioning construction as an aspirational career path for women and girls through multimedia storytelling, industry collaborations, and events. Prior to Move Over Bob, Kate’s career spanned social impact, marketing, and economic inclusion across the public and private sectors. She led civic participation campaigns at Luma Pictures, directed economic empowerment programs at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, and created transportation access initiatives at Lyft. Kate has also founded multiple ventures focused on connection and cultural storytelling, including a charitable wedding registry, a social trading card company, and a street food tour in Zanzibar. Early in her career, Kate managed global health communications portfolios for the U.S. State Department and the Centers for Disease Control, and served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Tanzania and Senegal. Kate holds a B.A. from the University of Michigan and completed a carpentry pre-apprenticeship and welding course at Mesa Community College. She is an avid bowler, adventure traveler, and amateur glassblower. At Hands on Heroes we are dedicated to inspiring the next generation of builders, makers, and doers. Through storytelling and STEM education, we promote the skilled trades and empower children to explore their potential.

    39 min
  7. How To Get More Women Involved In Engineering, Tech & Construction ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep2 AIDC25

    11/26/2025

    How To Get More Women Involved In Engineering, Tech & Construction ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep2 AIDC25

    Discover how to get more women involved in engineering, tech and construction by giving them exposure early and often. Learn more on this episode of Hands-On Heroes - Ep2 AIDC25. Learn more about Hands-On Heroes: https://handsonheroes.net/Discover powerful insights on breaking gender barriers in STEM! In this episode of Hands-On Heroes from AIDC25 (Arizona Infrastructure & Data Center Summit 2025), we explore practical strategies for increasing women's participation in engineering, technology, and construction careers.🎯 Featured in This Episode:*Exclusive interview with Kirk Busch, CEO & Chairman of BigData Southwest and founder of AZ4Solar.org*Inspiring father-daughter story: How early exposure to tech events shaped an 8-year career journey (from age 10 to 18)*On-site interviews with industry leaders at AIDC25*Real-world insights on workforce development in the data center industry*Actionable advice for parents, educators, and industry professionalsHands-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.

    1h 41m
  8. How to Hire for the Future: AI's Impact on Engineering Talent ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep1 w/ Robert Sty

    11/13/2025

    How to Hire for the Future: AI's Impact on Engineering Talent ~ Hands-On Heroes Ep1 w/ Robert Sty

    Hands-On Heroes with Robert Sty focuses on how to hire for the future; AI's impact on engineering talent. To learn more about the Hands-On Heroes mission & support visit: https://handsonheroes.net/ Episode one had special guest Robert Sty. As Vice President and Semiconductor & Data Center Practice Lead at HDR Engineering, Inc., Robert spearheads innovation and strategic expansion across advanced manufacturing and mission-critical infrastructure. He brings deep expertise in developing transformative programs and leading the design of next-generation data center, semiconductor, and advanced technology facilities—driving performance, resilience, and scalability for clients operating at the forefront of technological advancement. He is a Registered Professional Mechanical Engineer (AZ) with a BSME from the University of Illinois-Chicago and a Graduate Certificate in Engineering Management from Stanford University. Robert's insights have been featured in industry publications such as the ASHRAE Journal and Consulting Specifying Engineering Magazine. 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. Thank you Mod42 for being our Title Sponsor!

    53 min
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As the Voice for the people who build, innovate, and sustain mission-critical infrastructure, Hands-On Heroes introduces the Podcast Host, Val Crafton who is The Voice of Grit — a trailblazer at the intersection of technology, trades, and transformation. With over two decades in mission-critical construction, she’s made it her purpose to amplify the people behind the progress — the builders, engineers, and innovators shaping our digital world. 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.

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