From growing up on the banks of the Ohio River during the Great
Depression to acquiring executive management roles at large
international companies, James Hardymon's life has been full of twists,
turns, hard work, and achievement. During his career, Hardymon helped
build corporations as a CEO, learned the ropes of Wall Street, and
interacted with US presidents and congressional leaders. As a result, he
acquired a keen, first-hand understanding of corporate America, which
propelled his reputation as a well-respected leader.
Engineering Corporate Success traces Hardymon's personal story and
career trajectory -- including his childhood, college years at the
University of Kentucky, service in the US Army, and his time employed in
some of the highest-level executive positions in America. Based on a
series of interviews conducted by Terry L. Birdwhistell for the Louie B.
Nunn Center for Oral History, the book reveals Hardymon's maxims for
success, experiences of rising through the corporate ranks, and key
insights into how business decisions are made in an increasingly
international environment. Hardymon also discusses the importance of
philanthropy, his philosophy of giving back, and his close relationship
with the University of Kentucky. This well-rounded work provides a
forthright description of the rewards and challenges that come with
balancing a prosperous personal and professional life.
