U.S. Green Berets
U.S. Navy SEALS
U.S. Army Rangers
WHAT “OPERATOR” MEANS AT OPERATO
Operators are forged through some of the most rigorous training programs in the world. As members of U.S. Military Special Forces, our advisors have undergone extensive physical, mental, and strategic training. They excel in operational strategy and planning, in leading allied units worldwide, briefing ambassadors and high-level decision-makers, and fostering trust and organizational excellence within diverse, multicultural teams.
An “operator” is someone who turns messy priorities into a clear weekly plan—and follows through. Our advisors are former Special Operators who’ve led complex teams and time-sensitive execution. We bring that same planning discipline to your work: clarify what matters, build an 8-week execution plan, track progress weekly, and course-correct fast—so you deliver the next milestone without thrash.
ADAPTABILITY
Plans change. You’ll still know what matters. We build a simple decision filter and weekly reset so you can adjust priorities without losing momentum.
DISCIPLINE
Discipline isn’t hype—it’s a cadence.
You’ll leave each session with next actions, a time-blocked week, and a simple scorecard to keep execution on track.
LEADERSHIP
Clarity lowers stress for everyone.
We help you set priorities, run tighter 1:1s, and hold accountability in a way that’s direct, respectful, and repeatable.
PROBLEM
SOLVING
Turn complexity into decisions.
We break messy problems into assumptions, options, and a short “next 72 hours” plan so you can move forward fast.
MENTAL
TOUGHNESS
Stay steady when pressure spikes.
You’ll learn practical tools to manage stress, recover quickly, and make clean decisions when the week gets chaotic.
DIVERSE
EXPERIENCES
Experience matters when it translates.
We bring patterns from high-pressure environments into your work: plan clearly, execute weekly, and course-correct early.
Our advisors are former Special Operators—what you get is practical planning and weekly execution
FOUNDERS
Carl Hanesstetter
Carl is a devoted father, husband, and distinguished veteran with nearly 20 years of Special Operations experience. A recipient of the Silver Star Medal, he has mentored elite soldiers and advised high-ranking leaders within the Department of Defense. After courageously battling cancer and other health challenges, Carl personally learned the profound impact of mentorship. He completed the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy, earning a certificate in Leadership and Workforce Development, and is currently attending NYU Stern to receive his Executive MBA. Carl has led diverse teams—from intimate sniper units to commanding over 3,000 soldiers—demonstrating a leadership style that balances compassion and firmness, resonating across generations. As a co-founder of Operato, Carl leverages his extensive military expertise to empower individuals in productivity, physical well-being, mental health, financial acumen, and leadership proficiency. He firmly believes that investing in people leads to extraordinary outcomes and is committed to helping others realize their ambitions through dedicated mentorship.
Luke Zerrer
Luke is a dedicated professional who honed his leadership skills with 10th Special Forces Group in Stuttgart, Germany. After his military service, he earned a degree in Mathematics from Columbia University and worked for several years as an engineer supporting national security efforts. Now he is continuing his education at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. Growing up in the mountains of Colorado, Luke is also an accomplished endurance athlete who has completed multiple ultramarathon distance runs, including distances over 100 miles. As a co-founder of Operato, Luke applies his vast experience in leadership, technical fields, and endurance training to uplift and guide others. Dedicated to enriching lives and fostering growth, he influences positive change in areas ranging from leadership to strategic decision-making. Luke believes that dedicated mentorship and knowledge sharing empower individuals to achieve their ambitions.