For Margarita Howard, the path to success was not an easy one. Growing up with
limited resources and facing obstacles to advanced education, her determination
and resilience propelled her forward. Howard’s dedication to pursuing a college
education led her to the University of Texas at El Paso, where she faced the
financial burden of tuition. It was during this time that she discovered the
potential job opportunities offered by the military and decided to join the Air
Force. This decision laid the groundwork for her future endeavors and shaped
her strategic vision as a leader. 

As the CEO and President of HX5, Margarita Howard has played a pivotal role in the
company’s transformative growth. From a workforce of one, HX5 has expanded to over 1,000 employees
under her watchful eye. This numerical increase is a testament to Howard’s
strategic leadership and vision. 

One key aspect of Howard’s approach is her strategic foresight. Recognizing the
limitations of relying solely on single-source awards in government
contracting, she guided HX5 to become a viable competitor from the start.
Howard explains, “I had that competitive edge or desire. And I knew that I
didn’t want HX5 to be dependent on sole-source awards.” She understood the
importance of building a company that could sustain and thrive independently,
even in a competitive landscape. 

Facing the challenges of the government contracting industry, Margarita Howard
emphasizes the need
for strict adherence to regulations and compliance requirements. Government
contracts involve complex rules and reporting obligations, requiring impeccable
record-keeping and a strong commitment to compliance. Howard understands the
privilege of working alongside civil servants and the military, supporting
their missions while upholding the highest standards of professionalism. 

Being a woman in a predominantly male industry is another challenge Howard has faced.
Overcoming gender biases and stereotypes, she has proven herself as an
effective and successful leader. Her focus has been on promoting diversity
within HX5, with the majority of
the management team being women. This emphasis on diversity is not just a
policy, but a reflection of Howard’s belief in the capabilities and potential
of women in leadership roles. 

In the journey to success, Howard recognizes the contribution of her employees.
HX5’s growth and success are attributed to the dedication and experience of its
highly selective management team. As the company continues to evolve, Howard’s
strategic vision, resilience, and commitment to her team will guide its future
direction. 

Margarita Howard’s leadership has been instrumental in HX5’s journey to becoming a
significant player in the government contracting sector. Her story serves as a
beacon of inspiration for companies striving for success in competitive
landscapes while fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. Read this article for additional
information. 

Learn more about Howard on https://www.synovus.com/local/pensacola-fl/hx5