2017 40 Under 40 Honoree: Paden Wilcox, 28

Paden Wilcox doesn’t have a college degree and proves it’s not a requirement for success. Through intentionally surrounding himself with and seeking mentorships from a variety of community leaders, he’s become an influential person in the Springfield community. The business development manager for Computer Recycling Center LLC, Wilcox has enhanced the community by creating programs that eliminate waste, providing jobs to people with disabilities, training leaders in customer service and aiding in the arrival of Uber in Springfield. In the more than four years Wilcox has worked for Computer Recycling Center, the company now diverts 2 million pounds of material from landfills a year, up from 750,000.

What was your first job? Cleaning golf carts at Deer Lake Golf Course

What is your theme song? “Party in the USA,” by Miley Cyrus

What are you doing to make the Ozarks better? I’m involved with the North side Betterment Association which is a group that is focused on advancing the north side of Springfield. I also volunteer with many local nonprofits and organizations I believe are truly making a difference in our community.

What did you learn the hard way? I learned quickly that your wife is always right and that she looks amazing in everything she wears.

What’s your greatest regret? Telling my wife I didn’t like one of her outfits.