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Margarita Howard: Leading HX5 to Excellence in Government Contracting
A visionary leader and veteran, Margarita Howard redefines success in government contracting through innovation, diversity, and unwavering commitment to compliance.
From a service-disabled Air Force veteran to a trailblazing CEO, Howard’s journey exemplifies resilience, innovation, and commitment in a competitive industry.
A Veteran’s Vision: Breaking Barriers in Government Contracting
Margarita Howard, CEO and president of HX5, stands as a powerful figure in the male-dominated world of government contracting. As a service-disabled Air Force veteran and a Hispanic woman, Howard has carved her niche in an industry where women comprise just 45.4% of the workforce and Hispanic representation hovers at 17.7%. Her journey from founding HX5 to its current stature as a medium-sized government contractor supporting the Department of Defense and NASA is a testament to unwavering determination and strategic leadership.
“I’ve experienced it firsthand, and it does create an additional challenge to prove yourself as an effective and successful leader,” Howard acknowledges. Yet, her success reflects a broader trend of women breaking barriers in government contracting and assuming leadership roles, both in industry and within government agencies.
Early Investments, Long-Term Gains
Howard’s rise wasn’t accidental; it was rooted in strategic early investments. From its inception, HX5 prioritized compliance and infrastructure, opting for specialized government-approved accounting systems to ensure smooth audits and credibility in government billing processes.
“Those were investments the company made that were very key in the beginning,” Howard explains. “It was a risk that we took, and it highly paid off.” This foresight not only appealed to government agencies but also to large businesses seeking reliable small-business partners.
Leadership with a Hands-On Approach
At HX5, leadership isn’t confined to Howard’s office. She and her senior team maintain direct involvement in hiring decisions, particularly for management roles. This deliberate approach has cultivated a workforce of over 1,000 employees, with many team members staying loyal to HX5 for over a decade.
Howard’s commitment to diversity is evident in her leadership team, where women dominate senior management roles. By fostering a culture of inclusion and high standards, HX5 has positioned itself as a competitive employer in the fiercely contested STEM talent pool.
Building Partnerships and Ensuring Compliance
A hallmark of Howard’s leadership is her dedication to partnerships and compliance. HX5 prioritizes meticulous record-keeping and rigorous adherence to government standards, recognizing the constant scrutiny contractors face.
The company invests heavily in workforce development, offering training on compliance, security protocols, and evolving industry standards. This approach not only ensures operational excellence but also strengthens relationships with government agencies and partners.
“Building strong relationships with government agencies is an invaluable asset for successful government contractors,” Howard says. “It can lead to positive performance appraisals and sometimes even new or additional business.”
Navigating Market Uncertainties with Strategic Leadership
The volatility of government funding cycles presents ongoing challenges for contractors. Howard’s solution? A multipronged approach that blends risk management with innovation. Under her leadership, HX5 has embraced emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity tools, ensuring the company stays ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.
“We try to stay ahead of those changing technologies,” Howard notes, highlighting her forward-thinking approach.
A Legacy of Excellence and Resilience
Margarita Howard’s journey from a U.S. Air Force veteran to the helm of HX5 showcases her commitment to excellence, diversity, and continuous improvement. Her leadership philosophy, grounded in strategic foresight and personal involvement, has propelled HX5 into a trusted partner for government agencies and a benchmark for excellence in the industry.
“Working side by side with civil servants and the military, supporting their respective missions is a privilege,” she reflects. “I love this business and the work that we do.”
Howard’s story is more than one of business success; it’s a blueprint for leadership that combines resilience, innovation, and a deep sense of responsibility. In an industry as demanding as government contracting, Margarita Howard proves that bold investments and steadfast leadership can truly redefine the status quo.
