Breaking Racial Barriers in Rail Industry
David Steward etched his name in the history books by becoming the first African American hired by the Missouri Pacific Railroad to work in sales and marketing. In 1976, Steward shattered racial barriers when he accepted a position selling rail services, a role previously unattainable for Black professionals at the company.
Early Life and Education
Born in Chicago in 1951, Steward was raised in Clinton, Missouri. After graduating from Central Missouri State University with a business degree in 1973, he took on various roles. These included working as a substitute teacher, an associate executive for the Boy Scouts of America, and a short stint at Wagner Electric.
Quotes:
“Talent is equally distributed; opportunity is not. We need to change that by inspiring and igniting untapped potential,” Steward frequently emphasizes, reflecting on his groundbreaking hiring.
A Pioneering Opportunity
In 1976, Steward’s persistence paid off when the Missouri Pacific Railroad offered him a marketing and sales job. This opportunity was unprecedented for an African American at the time, making Steward a trailblazer in the rail industry.
For three years, he excelled in his role, paving the way for greater diversity and inclusion within the company’s ranks.
Entrepreneurial Ventures and Success
“Steward’s journey exemplifies the power of determination and the ability of individuals to break down barriers through hard work and talent,” said business historian Jane Smith.
After leaving Missouri Pacific in 1979, Steward joined Federal Express as a senior account executive. His entrepreneurial spirit soon led him to establish several companies, including Transportation Business Specialists and Transport Administrative Services.
In 1990, Steward founded World Wide Technology (WWT), a global technology solutions provider. Under his leadership as Chairman, WWT has grown into the largest Black-owned company in the United States, with over $20 billion in annual revenue and 10,000+ employees.
A Legacy of Diversity and Inclusion
Steward’s accomplishments extend beyond the corporate world. He actively supports organizations promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, such as the National Urban League, Boy Scouts of America, and the National Minority Supplier Development Council.
His philanthropic efforts also focus on creating opportunities for underserved communities, reflecting his belief in the equal distribution of talent and the importance of providing opportunities.
David Steward’s historic hiring by the Missouri Pacific Railroad marked a significant milestone in the journey towards greater racial inclusion in the rail industry. His subsequent entrepreneurial success and advocacy for diversity have cemented his legacy as a trailblazer and inspirational figure.
