David Steward: A Journey of Resilience, Vision, and Impact

David Steward is a shining example of resilience, determination, and entrepreneurial vision. As the founder and chairman of World Wide Technology (WWT), Steward has built a multibillion-dollar company that stands as a beacon of innovation in the IT industry. His journey from humble beginnings in the segregated South to leading a $20 billion business empire is nothing short of inspirational. His life story exemplifies the power of perseverance, faith, and the ability to see opportunities where others see challenges.

Born into a modest family with seven siblings, Steward’s early years were marked by adversity. Growing up in the racially segregated South, he witnessed firsthand the injustices and difficulties imposed by systemic inequality. His father worked tirelessly as a mechanic, janitor, and trash collector to provide for the family. Despite the hardships, Steward’s parents instilled in him the values of hard work, integrity, and faith, which would later serve as the foundation for his remarkable success.

Steward’s academic journey led him to Central Missouri University, where he graduated with a degree in business. Equipped with education and a strong work ethic, he began his professional career in sales. He worked for companies like Missouri Pacific Railroad, Union Pacific, and FedEx, where he honed his skills in building relationships, understanding customer needs, and navigating complex organizational structures. These experiences provided him with valuable insights and prepared him for the entrepreneurial challenges he would face later in life.

In 1990, David Steward co-founded World Wide Technology, an IT provider that would revolutionize the way businesses leverage technology. The early days of WWT were fraught with challenges. Steward faced financial difficulties, and there were moments when his entrepreneurial dream seemed unattainable. At one point, he went without a paycheck, and his car was repossessed from the office parking lot. These setbacks, however, only strengthened his resolve. With a deep faith in God and an unwavering belief in his vision, Steward persevered.

WWT’s growth trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary. Today, the company is a global leader in IT solutions, providing services to major clients such as Citi, Verizon, and the federal government. With revenues exceeding $20 billion, WWT has become a cornerstone of innovation, offering cutting-edge solutions in cloud computing, networking, and digital transformation. Steward’s leadership and emphasis on customer-centric solutions have been instrumental in establishing WWT as a trusted partner for some of the world’s largest organizations.

One of the defining aspects of David Steward’s success is his commitment to giving back. Despite his busy schedule and the demands of running a global enterprise, Steward has remained deeply involved in philanthropic efforts. In 2018, he donated $1.3 million to the University of Missouri-St. Louis to establish the David and Thelma Steward Institute for Jazz Studies. This initiative reflects his passion for preserving and promoting the art of jazz, a genre that holds cultural and historical significance. Through his generosity, Steward has provided opportunities for aspiring musicians and contributed to the enrichment of the arts.

Beyond his professional and philanthropic accomplishments, David Steward is also a devoted family man. His values of faith, family, and community are central to his life. He often attributes his success to his faith in God, crediting divine guidance for giving him the strength to overcome obstacles and pursue his dreams. Steward’s humility and gratitude are evident in his interactions with others, as he consistently seeks to uplift and empower those around him.

Steward’s journey offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders. His story underscores the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. Rather than being deterred by setbacks, Steward used them as stepping stones to success. His ability to adapt, learn, and innovate allowed him to navigate the complexities of the IT industry and emerge as a trailblazer. Moreover, his commitment to ethical leadership and giving back to the community serves as a reminder of the impact that businesses can have beyond the bottom line.

Today, David Steward stands as a symbol of hope and possibility. His remarkable achievements demonstrate that success is not determined by one’s circumstances but by the choices they make and the values they uphold. From his humble beginnings to leading a global enterprise, Steward’s life is a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As the majority owner of World Wide Technology, he continues to inspire countless individuals with his story of triumph and generosity.

Through his leadership, philanthropy, and dedication to innovation, David Steward has left an indelible mark on the world. His legacy serves as a reminder that with vision, hard work, and a commitment to making a difference, anything is possible. In a world often marked by challenges and uncertainties, Steward’s life story shines as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging others to dream big and persevere in the pursuit of their goal,.