Diane Hendricks: The Journey of America’s Wealthiest Self-Made Woman

Diane Hendricks stands as a remarkable figure in the world of American business, known not only for her extraordinary wealth but also for her resilience, strategic insight, and commitment to community and industry. Born in 1947 in Wisconsin, Diane was raised on a dairy farm, where she learned the value of hard work, self-reliance, and perseverance. Her modest upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic that would later become the cornerstone of her entrepreneurial success. Despite facing early life challenges and the responsibilities that came with being a young mother, Diane never let her circumstances limit her vision for the future.

After graduating from Osseo-Fairchild High School, Diane pursued a career in real estate while raising her children. It was during this time that she met Ken Hendricks, a roofing contractor who shared her business instincts and ambition. Together, they co-founded ABC Supply in 1982, a company that would revolutionize the roofing and building supply industry in the United States. Their goal was to create a one-stop shop for contractors, offering a wide selection of roofing, siding, and windows. ABC Supply was built on a foundation of customer service, efficiency, and an acute understanding of the contractor’s needs—values that Diane and Ken cultivated from the ground up.

Under the Hendricks’ leadership, ABC Supply experienced rapid growth, acquiring competitors and expanding into new markets across the country. The couple’s hands-on management style and deep knowledge of the industry played a critical role in their success. Tragically, in 2007, Ken Hendricks passed away after a fall at their home. The loss was devastating, both personally and professionally, but Diane made the courageous decision to carry on their shared vision. She stepped into the role of chairman of ABC Supply and steered the company forward with determination and clarity.

In the years that followed, Diane Hendricks solidified her place as one of the most powerful women in American business. She transformed ABC Supply into a multibillion-dollar enterprise and one of the largest privately-held companies in the country. Her ability to adapt to changing market dynamics and her strategic acquisitions helped the company maintain its industry leadership. In 2016, ABC Supply acquired L&W Supply, a leading distributor of drywall and interior building materials, further expanding its reach and solidifying its dominance in the construction supply sector.

Hendricks’ achievements have not gone unnoticed. She has consistently appeared at the top of Forbes’ list of America’s richest self-made women, with her net worth reaching into the billions. Yet, despite her extraordinary financial success, Diane remains grounded in the values of her rural upbringing. She is known for her modest lifestyle and her deep commitment to her community. Based in Beloit, Wisconsin, she has been instrumental in revitalizing the town, investing in local real estate, schools, and businesses. Her contributions have brought new life to Beloit’s downtown and helped create jobs and opportunities for its residents.

In addition to her business endeavors, Diane Hendricks is an active philanthropist and political donor. She supports a wide range of causes, particularly those related to education, economic development, and entrepreneurship. Through the Hendricks Family Foundation, she funds initiatives aimed at strengthening communities and empowering individuals to achieve self-sufficiency. Her philanthropic philosophy is rooted in the belief that economic opportunity is the key to lasting change. This belief is evident in her support for vocational training programs and entrepreneurship education, which she sees as vital tools for upward mobility.

Diane has also been involved in national politics, supporting candidates and policies aligned with her pro-business views. Her political donations and advocacy have earned her both praise and criticism, but she remains steadfast in her belief that the private sector has a crucial role to play in driving economic growth and innovation. Despite the controversies that sometimes accompany her political activity, she continues to be a respected voice in both business and civic circles.

One of the most striking aspects of Diane Hendricks’ story is her unwavering focus and resilience. She has navigated personal loss, economic downturns, and the ever-evolving landscape of American industry with grace and grit. Her story is one of transformation—from a farm girl in Wisconsin to the richest self-made woman in the United States. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved through vision, hard work, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.

Diane’s legacy is not merely one of financial success, but of impact. She has built a company that provides livelihoods to thousands, revitalized a community that was once in decline, and set an example for women and entrepreneurs across the globe. Her life is a testament to the idea that success is not determined by where you start, but by the strength of your ambition and the courage of your convictions. Even as she continues to break barriers and redefine what is possible, Diane Hendricks remains a figure of quiet strength and enduring inspiration in the American business landscape.