2019 40 Under 40: James Wilson, 39

SBJ photo by Wes Hamilton

James Wilson climbed the ladder to the top at NewStream Enterprises. He started at the SRC Holdings Corp. division when he was 25, working in customer service.

Wilson knew he wanted more, and his desire for professional growth also was a boon for the company.

Today, Wilson oversees $175 million in annual sales for the distribution and supply chain management company and a plant each in Springfield and Joliet, Illinois.

He also feels the call of volunteerism, serving as board secretary for Ozarks Food Harvest and as a member of the Abou Ben Adhem Shriners.

“No one should go hungry, especially right here in our community,” he says.

What was your first job? Mowing grass. I actually earned the money to overhaul the engine for my first car by mowing lawns. My dad and I rebuilt the engine together.

What are you doing to make the Ozarks better? If we want to make the Ozarks a better place, we have to focus on the children, who are our future.

What did you learn the hard way? Listen to those who have walked the path before you.

What is your theme song? “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey.

Have you ever met a celebrity? Vince Papale. Most people may not know who he is, but they made a movie about his life, “Invincible.” He was the oldest rookie to ever play in NFL without college experience.