Meet Drew Buckner

We were lucky to catch up with Drew Buckner recently and have shared our conversation below.

Drew, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
For me, a lot of it stems from my experiences growing up in the foster care system. It was a challenging environment, but it taught me a lot about perseverance and adapting to different situations. Then, serving in the US Navy further honed my resilience. The discipline, structure, and sometimes harsh realities of military life really tested and strengthened my ability to endure and overcome difficulties. Along the way, I’ve also faced skepticism and doubt from people around me, which only fueled my determination to succeed. And most importantly, my wife and son are constant sources of inspiration. Watching them work hard, face their own challenges with grace, and never give up, gives me an incredible amount of motivation to be resilient in my own life.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
At City of Trees Tech, our passion for technology and design drives everything we do. What sets us apart is our commitment to not just delivering top-notch tech solutions but also to building strong, local connections. We’re all about empowering small businesses and larger non-profits in our community. Our approach is personal – we’re not just a service provider; we’re a partner in our clients’ growth. My journey into entrepreneurship was fueled by two key passions: a love for tech and design, and the dream of carving out my own path in the business world. Starting City of Trees Tech was more than just a business decision; it was a personal one. It gave me the freedom to tailor my work schedule around my son’s needs, which is invaluable. It’s about balancing professional aspirations with personal responsibilities – and that’s a philosophy we bring into our work with clients too. We’re currently focusing on expanding our reach to bigger local clients. We believe that by partnering with more small businesses and larger non-profits, we can create a significant impact in our community. Also, I’m thrilled to announce the launch of my new podcast with my friend, ‘The Sport Geeks’. It’s a blend of tech, design, and sports – offering listeners unique insights and a bit of fun!Whether you’re a small business or a growing non-profit, City of Trees Tech is here to provide you with tailored tech solutions that resonate with your unique needs. Our journey is about more than technology; it’s about building a community, fostering relationships, and being a part of each other’s success stories. Join us on this exciting journey!

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, the three most impactful qualities or areas of knowledge have been:

1. **Adaptability and Continuous Learning**: The ability to adapt to changing circumstances and continuously learning new skills or knowledge has been crucial. The world is constantly evolving, and being able to keep up with these changes is vital. For those early in their journey, I recommend cultivating a mindset of lifelong learning. Embrace change, be curious, and don’t fear stepping out of your comfort zone. Engaging in diverse experiences and educational opportunities can greatly enhance this skill.

2. **Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving**: This involves not just understanding information or situations but being able to analyze them, spot patterns, think creatively, and come up with effective solutions. To develop this, I advise practicing analytical thinking in everyday situations, seeking out puzzles and problems to solve, and not shying away from complex challenges. Engaging with a variety of viewpoints and disciplines can also sharpen this skill, as it exposes you to different ways of thinking.

3. **Emotional Intelligence and Communication**: Understanding and managing one’s own emotions, along with effectively communicating and empathizing with others, is incredibly important. For improvement in this area, focus on self-awareness, practice active listening, and engage in diverse social interactions. Developing empathy by trying to understand things from others’ perspectives is also key. Remember, communication is not just about speaking or writing well; it’s also about understanding and being understood.

For those at the beginning of their journey, my advice is to approach these areas with patience and persistence. Growth takes time, and setbacks are part of the process. Seek feedback, learn from failures, and celebrate small victories. Surround yourself with a supportive community that challenges you and helps you grow. Remember, the journey is as important as the destination.

Alright so to wrap up, who deserves credit for helping you overcome challenges or build some of the essential skills you’ve needed?
In my journey, there have been several key individuals who have been instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed for success.

First and foremost, my wife, Jamie, has been an incredible pillar of support. She has consistently been there to offer both emotional support and practical advice. Her insight and perspective have often provided clarity in complex situations, helping me navigate through tough times. Her belief in my abilities and her constant encouragement have been invaluable in boosting my confidence and resilience.

My older brother, Adonai, has also played a crucial role. He has always been a role model to me, demonstrating what hard work and dedication can achieve. His guidance, especially in times of uncertainty, has been a guiding light. Adonai’s ability to see things from different angles and his experience has helped me broaden my own perspectives and approach challenges with a more well-rounded viewpoint.

Lastly, my best friend of 30 years, Devon, has been a key figure in my growth and development. His friendship has been a constant source of joy and stability. Devon’s knack for problem-solving and his creative approach to obstacles have often inspired me. His honest feedback and constructive criticism have been critical in helping me refine my skills and better myself both professionally and personally.

Each of these individuals has contributed uniquely to my journey, providing support, wisdom, and strength when I needed it most. Their combined influences have not only helped me overcome numerous challenges but have also played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today. I am incredibly grateful for their presence in my life.

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