Early Life
David Lloyd Steward was born in Chicago, Illinois, on July 2, 1951. His family moved to Clinton, Missouri, shortly after. Growing up, Steward experienced the challenges of poverty and segregation. His father worked as a mechanic, janitor, and trash collector to support the family, while Steward faced segregation in schools and public spaces. He graduated from Clinton Senior High School in 1969. These early experiences shaped his determination and resilience.
Rise to Success
Steward's career began after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Central Missouri State University in 1973. He worked in sales for Missouri Pacific Railroad and Federal Express, where he was recognized as Salesman of the Year. In 1990, Steward co-founded World Wide Technology (WWT) with a partner. Initially, the company faced financial hardships, but Steward's strategic vision and leadership propelled WWT to become a leading IT provider. He put up $250,000 he earned from two previous auditing ventures to start the St. Louis-based WWT business.
Key Business Strategies
WWT's success is attributed to several key strategies: establishing strong partnerships, including with Cisco, and offering comprehensive technology solutions. The company expanded its services to include cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Steward's focus on customer satisfaction and employee development has also contributed to WWT's growth. Today, WWT serves top corporate clients and the federal government. Steward holds a majority stake in the $20 billion enterprise.
Philanthropy
David Steward is dedicated to giving back to his community. He and his wife, Thelma, established the Steward Family Foundation, which supports initiatives in education, health, and human services, particularly in underserved communities. The Stewards have contributed millions to various organizations, including the United Way and educational programs. Steward's philanthropy extends to STEM education and workforce development initiatives, reflecting his commitment to creating opportunities for others.
