Meet Mikhail Gladkikh

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mikhail Gladkikh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mikhail, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Since I was a kid, I had a passion for books and stories. I read a lot, especially science fiction, and dreamed about writing my own science fiction novels. With professional career and family, raising two daughters, it is difficult to find time, and, while keeping this dream, I didn’t dare to start writing, thinking it is a monumental task that requires absolute commitment. But then, one day, I realized I have nothing to lose if I start and give it a try. I came up with the idea and the main plot for my first book while on an international business trip, sitting on a plane for 10 hours. I included writing in my daily schedule and wrote for about several hours per week, which is not that difficult to find. I realized I enjoy the process of writing, so even if I don’t achieve major success, it would still be fine, since writing became my relief valve and the opportunity to explore a different, more creative side. I kept my professional job (and still do), while continuing to write and publish as a side business. I have stories in my head that I want to share with people, pose thought-provoking questions, and, since my daily job is highly technical, it allows me to explore intriguing technologies from both engineering and artistic angles.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My professional path has been driven by curiosity and desire to learn. I started in an Oilfield Service Company as a scientist, developing technologies to better understand complex, multi-phase fluid flow in porous media and geological structures. But I never saw myself limited to one field of research or business area, I was interested in learning more about the business and the people. One of my fundamental beliefs is that we, as humans, can learn anything, and there is no limit other than self-imposed one. So, I had reinvented myself three times: first, I became an expert in ballistic and lead the engineering department of the perforating business; second, I learned Project Management and Lean Six Sigma process improvement methodology, which landed me jobs in leading Global Logistics Transformation Program and HR Process Improvement leader; and third, I have mastered the field of 3D Printing (or Additive Manufacturing), in which I am currently developing groundbreaking technology to digitize global Supply Chains.
Two key lessons along the way for me were: (1) belief I can learn anything and I can always rely on people to help me in my journey, leaning on their knowledge and support, and (2) considering opportunities from the learning perspective for myself and the impact perspective for the business. A long time ago, I was introduced to the idea that, as a professional, I need to be within the intersection of three circles: what I do well (my skills), what I like to do (my passions), and what the business needs (impact). This served me well on my path, although it was not easy, and every time I had to make a major career shift, a nagging voice would tell me I’d never master this specific area as this is way too alien for my expertise (or that I could never write and publish a science fiction novel, I have no language skills). But you clench your teeth and keep learning, no matter how hard it is. My favorite quote that summarizes this approach beautifully is from the movie Rocky: “The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a very mean and nasty place and I don’t care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it.” So you keep grinding, and something good will come out of it. And even if it doesn’t, what truly matters is that you gave it all you had and you enjoyed the process.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
One place I always recommend in Houston is the Museum of Natural Science. With the whole floor dedicated to Earth sciences, it is a wonderful place to learn about exciting subjects such as geology, chemistry, and energy. Rice University and surrounding Rice Village is a beautiful area full of imposing oak trees, amazing restaurants and bars, and Rice University itself is a great place to attend lectures or seminars at the intersection of scientific and business interests. Houston Station Technology Park is another place where innovative technological and business ideas are brought to life daily with the help of aspiring entrepreneurs and venture capital.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First of all, I’d like to recognize my wife, Larisa Branets, who encouraged and supported me to start the author career. She is my voice of reason, the critic, and the champion. I am immensely grateful for her support.
I’d like to mention also my high school physics teacher, who introduced me to the beautiful and amazing world of physics, from elementary particles to black holes. My fascination with and appreciation of science fiction started with him. And then my PhD Advisor at the University introduced and guided me into the area of applied research. I owe my professional development as a technologist and business leader to him.

Website: https://mikhailgladkikh.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikhailgladkikh/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@VISION2222podcast

Other: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mikhail-Gladkikh/author/B0B1XJQBXV