There are people who show up for the job. And then there are people like Mike Rawlins, who show up for the mission.
After decades of service across military, government, and private sectors—including 18 years of helping lay the foundation for what The Hana Group has become—Mike has officially retired.
His departure marks the end of an era, but not the end of his influence. The impact of his leadership and wisdom will be felt across Hana and the broader community for years.
Mike’s career reads like a blueprint for service-oriented leadership. With over 30 years in senior management roles he oversaw complex operations, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, and built partnerships that allowed Hana to grow with intention.
His military service is equally distinguished: from Command Administrative Officer to Deputy Adjutant General for the State of Hawaiʻi, Mike held some of the highest positions in the Hawai‘i Army National Guard and the Department of Defense. He managed billions in assets, helped shape strategic priorities, and led during pivotal moments of change and challenge.
But for those of us who worked alongside Mike, the job titles were never the most impressive part. It was his presence in the room. His ability to cut tension with a perfectly timed joke. His straight talk that could diffuse a problem or bring clarity to a complex situation. Mike brought both gravitas and warmth. He could anchor tough conversations with humanity and grace.
As one team member shared in a personal note to Mike:
“You helped lay the foundation at Hana, and the good work continues because of your work. It’s been an honor to walk beside you.”
Mike retires with more than professional accolades. He retires with the enduring respect of his peers, the gratitude of a company shaped by his leadership, and the love of his family—his wife Nancy of 56 years, their son Michael (a retired Colonel in the Hawai‘i Air National Guard), and two grandchildren, Kapono and Lehua.
Though he’s stepping away from day-to-day responsibilities, Mike will continue to serve as a Director for The Hana Group and will also serve as a Hana Ambassador for the Hawaiian community.
Mike, you’ve made more of a difference than you know. Your legacy lives on in the people, the practices, and the promise of what Hana stands for.
Mahalo, Mike.
We win as one.