Early Life
David Lloyd Steward was born in Chicago, Illinois, on July 2, 1951. He grew up in Clinton, Missouri, where he experienced poverty and racial segregation. Steward's father worked as a mechanic and his mother was a homemaker. Growing up in a segregated environment shaped his determination to succeed.
Rise to Success
After graduating from Central Missouri State University in 1973 with a Bachelor of Science in Business, Steward began his career. He held various positions, including production manager at Wagner Electric, a sales representative at Missouri Pacific Railroad Company, and senior account executive at Federal Express. In 1981, he was recognized as the Salesman of the Year and inducted into the company's Hall of Fame.
Key Business Strategies
In 1990, Steward co-founded World Wide Technology (WWT). WWT has grown to become a global systems integrator and supply chain solutions provider. The company focuses on areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics. A key strategy for WWT has been forming partnerships with major technology companies and providing services to a wide range of clients, including Fortune 100 companies and the federal government. Steward has emphasized the importance of a strong company culture and collaboration.
Philanthropy
David Steward and his wife, Thelma, are actively involved in philanthropy. Through the Steward Family Foundation, they support initiatives in education, health, and human services, with a focus on underrepresented communities. They have contributed millions of dollars to various organizations, including the United Way of Greater St. Louis.
