16 Jul 2025

Spotlight On: Kristian Hernandez | ‘Success is about people’

Kristian Hernandez

My name is Kristian Hernandez, and I have the pleasure of leading the Building Automation and Service departments at McKenney’s Inc. My goal is to grow McKenney’s service and controls business into the premier provider for office, healthcare, data center, and higher education markets. This vision reflects my commitment to leading teams that deliver real value—not just by building and servicing systems, but by helping people grow.

I love watching my teams build their careers and succeed. McKenney’s has given me every opportunity to create the life I have today, and I’m passionate about helping others achieve their dreams as well.

Choosing Charlotte wasn’t just a career move—it was a personal inspiration. My wife and I fell in love with the city on a previous trip, and fortunately, this opportunity with McKenney’s opened just months later. From the countless trails and greenways to mountain hikes and running streams, to vibrant neighborhoods like Uptown, Plaza Midwood, and South End, Charlotte has been a place where my family and I can truly thrive.

Serving on the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance’s Young Professionals board and participating in the 13th Emerging Business Leaders cohort have been transformative experiences for me. These roles have deepened my understanding of Charlotte’s vibrant business community and broadened my network of passionate leaders committed to making a positive impact. I’ve gained invaluable insights into effective leadership, community engagement, and collaboration—tools that I bring back to my work at McKenney’s and to the organizations I serve. These experiences continuously inspire me to contribute meaningfully to the growth and vitality of this region.

Beyond work and community involvement, I’m honored to serve as Board Vice Chair for the Lake Norman YMCA and to participate actively at Meck Community Church. Being part of these organizations allows me to live out my passion for people and make lasting connections across the region.

Outside the office, I enjoy exploring parks and greenways with my family, trying local restaurants, and participating in F3 workouts. Personally, I’m working toward running my first marathon this year and love playing golf with my 9-year-old son, who recently picked up the sport.

For me, success is about people—their growth, our connections, and the shared future we build here in Charlotte. It’s the relationships we nurture and the impact we make together that define true achievement. I’m committed to fostering a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, grow, and feel inspired to reach their fullest potential.

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