CEO Leadership

Margarita Howard Paves the Way for High-Performance Government Contracting

In the fast-paced and competitive field of government contracting, few stories shine as brightly as that of Margarita Howard, the visionary behind HX5. Her journey, rooted in military service and entrepreneurial ambition, exemplifies the determination and strategic insight necessary to thrive in this challenging industry.

From Military Beginnings to Corporate Leadership

Margarita Howard’s career began in the U.S. Air Force, where she gained invaluable experience in military operations and culture. This foundation shaped her future path, providing the skills and insights she would later leverage in the corporate world. After her military service, Howard rapidly climbed the ranks in the private sector, gaining recognition for her exceptional operational management skills.

Reflecting on her early career, Howard shared, “My first job was as a business center manager, and I quickly advanced through promotions and higher management roles, always with a focus on operations.” This hands-on leadership approach became the cornerstone of her success.

Shaping Military Healthcare with Tricare

Howard’s pivotal role in the transformation of military healthcare began when she joined a high-profile government contract to develop Tricare. At the time, this program marked a revolutionary shift in how the military managed healthcare, transitioning from the traditional Champus system to a managed care model.

As an area field manager, and later as a regional director overseeing seven southeastern states, Howard was instrumental in building the provider network for Tricare. She engaged with medical professionals and military leaders, navigating resistance to change through town hall meetings and monthly briefings.

Recalling those days, Howard noted, “Nobody likes change. We had a lot of debate and dissatisfaction, but those challenges taught me valuable lessons in change management and stakeholder communication.”

Launching HX5 Through Vision and Determination

After her transformative work with Tricare, Howard felt equipped to embark on her entrepreneurial journey. The result was HX5, a high-security government contracting firm that has grown into a formidable presence in defense and aerospace.

A crucial factor in HX5’s success was its participation in the Small Business Administration’s 8(a) program. This nine-year mentorship initiative supports socially and economically disadvantaged business owners. As a first-generation American, Howard qualified for the program and leveraged it to accelerate HX5’s growth.

“After becoming an 8(a) company, we were awarded four contracts in one year. That really helped us get off the ground,” Howard revealed. These early successes provided the momentum to establish HX5 as a trusted partner for federal agencies.

A Nationwide Presence with Expertise at Its Core

Today, HX5 operates at nearly 90 government-related locations across three dozen states, employing more than 1,000 professionals. Its portfolio spans cutting-edge research, technological innovation, and mission-critical support for agencies like NASA and the Department of Defense.

Howard’s hiring strategy prioritizes experience, often seeking individuals with backgrounds in government or military service. “We look for people who have worked with or supported NASA or the Department of Defense,” she explained. This emphasis on expertise ensures HX5 maintains the highest standards in every project.

Embracing Challenges and Innovation

Operating in the demanding world of government contracting is no easy feat. Howard acknowledges the challenges, stating, “What we do is not easy, and it’s very expensive to ensure it’s done right. If it were easy, everyone would do it.”

A key differentiator for HX5 is its focus on innovation, particularly in artificial intelligence. The company supports AI initiatives for its government clients while also using AI internally to enhance operational efficiency.

A Legacy of Excellence and Dedication

Margarita Howard’s journey from military service to corporate leadership is a testament to her resilience and strategic thinking. Her story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs in the government contracting space.

“Working side by side with civil servants and the military, supporting their missions, is a privilege,” Howard remarked. “I love this business and the work that we do. I’m extremely proud of it.”

As HX5 continues to grow and innovate under Howard’s leadership, her story underscores the importance of adaptability, expertise, and a commitment to excellence in achieving success in high-performance government contracting.

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