Time for a coffee break? Take a few minutes to get to know David Feldman, Supplier Diversity/Local Content of Chevron, including his best career advice, advice for women entrepreneurs, and what drove him to a career in diversity and inclusion.
What piece of advice would you give to women entrepreneurs that want to do business with your corporation?
Do everything you can to know our business and prepare your business to solve a problem or challenge that you know we’re facing. And…be prepared to respond to issues surrounding safety. Understand the requirements and make sure you’re prepared to meet or (better) exceed them.
What drove you to a career in diversity and inclusion?
Honestly, I needed a job after transferring back to Houston after working in California. Happily, much of my life – both personal and professional has revolved around diversity and related issues. It was a great fit for me and has allowed me to pursue one of my passions.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Two things…First, have faith and patience. If you have those two things, you usually get what you want. The other is to make sure you tell people what you want. It does no good to silently hope for some role or opportunity. Tell people what you want – especially those who might be able to help or know someone who can help
How has being a WBENC Corporate Member helped your corporation and/or procurement department?
WBENC has been an important and valued partner and is key to our efforts to engage the community of women business owners. So much of what we do in supplier diversity is centered on our ability to identify suppliers who can support our global operations. WBENC and the network of regional partner organizations is critical to that engagement.
What are you reading or listening to now?
I’m a political junkie and always tuned to cable news. I always want to know what’s happening in the world. I love jazz, rap, hip-hop, old-school R&B – I seldom know the artists (except the old ones) just know what I like.
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be a major league baseball player.
How do you unwind after a long workday?
I love to play with my 80 lb lab, Drake. No matter what – he’s always excited when I walk in the door.
What do you like about your work-space?
I have a sit/stand desk that allows me to sit or stand while working at my desk. I also have a nice view out my window.
Fill in the Blank
When I face a challenge,… go silent and try to figure out what to do.
If I could go back in time, I would tell myself… be a better student and wear sunscreen.
The one thing I couldn’t live without is… sour balls – no, really – my wife and children.
Diversity and Inclusion inspires me because, … it has gotten me to where I am.
CHEVRON
Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We explore for, produce and transport crude oil and natural gas; refine, market and distribute transportation fuels and lubricants; manufacture and sell petrochemicals and additives; and develop and deploy technologies that enhance business value in every aspect of the company’s operations.
