We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Wilson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Michael, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
A strong dedication to education and community led to me starting The Think Tank Tutorial Services. The core value of our service at The Think Tank is to nurture today’s youth by providing additional educational opportunities and tutoring to students experiencing difficulty with class content. Services are provided for all ages and learning levels.
As a youth, I was blessed to have strong educators and role models in my community to help me along the way. They helped to nurture me both inside and outside of the classroom and ultimately accomplish goals that I would have deemed unattainable otherwise. The lessons learned continue to be impactful in my life today.
This is the reason why there is a heightened focus with The Think Tank on providing educational services to underserved and BIPOC communities. I wanted to help ensure that affordable educational growth opportunities were made available to all children. It is my ultimate goal to pay it forward with The Think Tank.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started The Think Tank back in 2017 after transitioning to the educational arena in 2014. Prior to entering education, I worked as a transportation manager in the private sector. Although it was financially fulfilling, I always felt that it wasn’t my calling. I always felt most comfortable working in the community, mentoring and educating the youth.
The transition always felt natural for me. It was something that I had always done in some capacity throughout my adult life. Whether through service with 100 Black Men of America, Inc. or other volunteer efforts, I have always tried to be of service to the community and children of the community.
This is what sets The Think Tank apart from other educational services. Although I focus heavily on the academic achievement of the child, I also strive to have an impact on their overall growth as a person. I want them to achieve goals in all aspects of their life.
I want the world to know that the story of The Think Tank is just beginning. We will continue to grow and look for additional ways to have a positive impact on the community.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am a big sports fan, so we would definitely have to check out a sporting event in the area. Whether its a professional sporting event or amateur, this would have to be a part of the itinerary. We would also have to check out some of the great restaurants in the area. One of my personal favorites is Viola and Agnes NeoSoul Cafe.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My grandparents, Boyd and Lorraine Hendricks, played a key role in my upbringing and deserve a ton of credit for providing me with a nurturing and supportive environment throughout my childhood. They continued to lend their support and guidance as I navigated my way through adulthood. They made me truly believe that the sky was the limit and I could accomplish anything that I set my mind to.
My sister, Kimberlie Johnson, was also instrumental in my life and deserves to be recognized. She helped me to develop the self–confidence needed to pursue my life endeavors and was always there with unwavering support and words of encouragement. Although she is no longer with me, I feel that she continues to be my biggest cheerleader.
With regards to educators and mentors, I would be remiss if I did not mention the individuals who sparked my love for education (mathematics) and community. Jackie Williams (8th Grade Algebra) and Ennis Williams (Assistant Principal/Mentor) were both vital to my educational development and served as true pillars of the community. Their influence and guidance as a youth ultimately planted the seed for the eventual development of The Think Tank Tutorial Services.
Additional family members and close friends also deserve recognition as all have played a role in my development and thus the incubation of The Think Tank. It is virtually impossible to list them all. However, I am truly grateful for all of them.
Website: www.tutorthinktank.com
Instagram: @thethinktanktutor
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wilson-221195792
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thethinktanktutor