Hanks attended Stevens High School, where he was involved in football, basketball, and track.
In 1983, he received a degree in business administration from the University of South Dakota.
In 2001, after owning his stores for almost 20 years, Hanks built the Heartland RV Park and Cabins on Highway 79 (which he continues to operate).
After three years in this position, Hanks defeated Jim Shaw for the office of Mayor of Rapid City, SD serving two terms.
In 2008, he received the Rapid City Elks Club's Distinguished Citizenship Award.