We’re delighted to close out this Economic Drivers series in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month with Wynndalco Enterprises CEO & Founder and Illinois EDC Board Member David Andalcio, who is a 40-year-long Illinoisan.
What inspired your career path and industry involvement?
The opportunities the state provided by its proven leadership for fair and equitable participation in economic and workforce development.
As a Hispanic/Latino leader in your field, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them?
Certainly access to capital and the ability to have a seat at the table; current leadership has made it possible to solve the inequities that existed in the past.
Can you share a key moment in your career that shaped who you are today?
Migrating to the United States December 13, 1975, which offered me a foundation of hard work and sustainable work ethic. The opportunities provided by the state leveled the playing field—once the door was open and they saw the quality of our work, it opened additional doors (and henceforth opportunities).
Who are (or have been) some of your mentors, role models, or inspirations?
One of my first mentors was Nelson Carol, a self-made Hispanic from Puerto Rico. He taught me not to take no for an answer, stay the course, work diligently, and to be the best you can be—in doing so, the work will follow.
What does success look like to you—professionally and/or personally?
Uplifting others, working, and giving back to the communities we serve. I strive to give every employee the opportunity to grow, believing that they will achieve greatness.
How does being in Illinois contribute to your success as a Hispanic/Latino leader (if it does)?
Illinois has provided true and honest leadership, having taken the time to realize inequality and create meaningful programs for all. It’s allowed for sustainability for Wynndalco and its employees. The state is innovative and forward-thinking.
What do you love most about living and working in Illinois?
I love that our leadership strives to work for the underserved (most importantly, they take the time to listen!), our innovative programs, and how forward-thinking we are.
What makes Illinois a strong place for Hispanic/Latino business leaders?
The accessibility to our elected officials, who make time to listen to the issues that affect all Illinoisans, and then take action to achieve greatness.
What policies, programs, or networks in Illinois have supported your professional growth or your organization’s mission?
Programs that were inclusive for minority-owned business, plus contracts and set-asides with the Business Enterprise Program (BEP) from the Illinois Commission on Equality and Inclusion (CEI).
How do you or your organization support your local community or underrepresented groups?
Wynndalco has donated millions of dollars via donations of computer systems to many Chicago public schools, the college of DuPage, and other non-profits in the state of Illinois. Further, we’ve donated to prostate cancer research at the University of Chicago, Lurie Children’s cancer center, and many other non-profits.
Are there any initiatives or organizations in Illinois that you’re proud to support?
I am proud to support the Chicago public schools, food banks to battle hunger, hospitals for cancer research, and overall: I support giving to others in need.
What inspires you to continue to affect change in your world?
To see communities and people uplifted, changing their lives to sustain their families—and in turn, seeing these folks paying it forward. It’s the circle of life and of giving back.
What does National Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month mean to you personally?
It means acknowledging all the great work by Hispanics: their contribution to military service, changing others’ lives, providing sustainable opportunities, and—most importantly—demonstrating the hard work of the Hispanic community.
What would you say to a young Hispanic/Latino professional considering launching or relocating their career to Illinois?
Keep the faith. Illinois is a progressive state with innovative thinkers. Hard work will pay off and you will be recognized; maintain the work ethic of your familial generations and you will be rewarded.
Is there anything else you’d like us to include or highlight in your profile?
There is no such thing as a free lunch. My advice: Work together, collaboration is key, take advantage of all the opportunities that are provided, get involved, stay involved, and always network.
Favorite Illinois historical figure:
There are many! One that comes to mind is Barack Obama.
Favorite book of all time:
The United States of Europe: The New Superpower and the End of American Supremacy by T.R. Reid
Best business advice you’ve ever given (or received):
The opportunity cost is the alternative that is bypassed.
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