In this episode of Blue Collar StartUp, Mike and Derek chat with Mason Hamilton as shares his incredible journey from excavator operator to president of Donnelly Construction, a leading traffic control company in New York State, revealing how hard work and resilience turned personal tragedy into triumph. Despite a paralyzing snowmobile accident, he continued leading and growing the business through sheer determination and problem-solving.

Learn more about Donnelly Construction at donnellyconstruction.net.

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0:00 Intro and Welcome

0:15 Hosts Banter and New Year Shoutout

1:13 Sponsor Shoutouts Begin

2:26 Patreon Mention

3:20 Introducing Guest Mason Hamilton

3:40 What is Donnelly Construction?

4:31 Explaining Traffic Control Services

5:30 Geographic Coverage and Visibility

6:34 Mason's Start in the Company

7:51 Path to Becoming an Operator

9:39 Timeline to President (21-22 Years)

11:30 Brief College Story

14:11 Day-to-Day as President

16:16 The Snowmobile Accident and Transition

20:52 Management Style

24:26 Overcoming Adversity Mindset

29:49 Plans for 2026 and Growth

33:28 Where to Find Donnelly Construction

34:12 Wrap-Up and Patreon Teaser