The Rise of Barry E. DuVal: A Trailblazer in Business and Community Development
Barry E. DuVal is a prominent figure in the world of business and community development. Born in Newport News, Virginia, in 1952, he began his career as an engineering student at Virginia Polytechnic Institute. After obtaining his degree, he worked for the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company and later became a successful entrepreneur. DuVal went on to become one of the most influential leaders in the state of Virginia, serving as its secretary of commerce and trade from 2014 to 2018. Let’s take a closer look at the life and achievements of this remarkable man.
1. Early Life and Education
DuVal was born and raised in a middle-class family in Newport News, Virginia. His father was a World War II veteran who worked as a salesman, and his mother was a homemaker. DuVal attended Denbigh High School, where he played football and basketball and was a member of the school’s marching band.
2. Career in Engineering
After graduating from high school, DuVal went to Virginia Polytechnic Institute, where he studied mechanical engineering. He worked for the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company for several years, eventually becoming an engineering manager.
3. Entrepreneurship
In the early 1980s, DuVal left his job at Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company to start his own engineering consulting firm. He later founded several other companies, including a communications firm and a venture capital firm.
4. Civic Involvement
DuVal’s involvement in civic affairs began in the early 1980s when he joined the Newport News City Council. He also served on several boards and commissions over the years, including the Virginia Commonwealth Transportation Board and the Commonwealth Transportation Board.
5. Political Career
In 1993, DuVal was elected to the Virginia House of Delegates, where he served for four years. He then served as the mayor of Newport News from 1990 to 1996. In 2014, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe appointed him to serve as his secretary of commerce and trade.
6. Economic Development
DuVal has been a strong advocate for economic development throughout his career. During his tenure as secretary of commerce and trade, he led several initiatives aimed at attracting new businesses to Virginia and promoting workforce development.
7. Awards and Recognition
DuVal has received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to business and community development. In 2016, he was named one of the “50 Most Influential Virginians” by Virginia Business magazine. He has also received the Virginia Chamber of Commerce’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
8. Legacy
DuVal’s legacy as a leader in business and community development in Virginia is significant. His dedication to promoting economic growth and development has helped make Virginia a top destination for businesses and entrepreneurs.
Conclusion
Barry E. DuVal is a trailblazer in the world of business and community development. His commitment to economic development has made Virginia a global leader in attracting new businesses and promoting workforce development. His legacy as a visionary leader will continue to inspire future generations of business and civic leaders in Virginia and beyond.
FAQs
1. What is Barry E. DuVal known for?
Barry E. DuVal is known for his work in business and community development, including his years of service as the secretary of commerce and trade for the state of Virginia.
2. What are some of DuVal’s accomplishments?
DuVal has had several significant accomplishments throughout his career, including founding several successful companies, serving as the mayor of Newport News, and leading initiatives aimed at promoting economic development in Virginia.
3. What was DuVal’s early career?
DuVal began his career as an engineering student at Virginia Polytechnic Institute. He later worked for the Newport News Shipbuilding and Dry Dock Company and then went on to become a successful entrepreneur.
4. What has DuVal done for economic development in Virginia?
DuVal has been a strong advocate for economic development throughout his career. As Virginia’s secretary of commerce and trade, he led several initiatives aimed at attracting new businesses to the state and promoting workforce development.
5. What is DuVal’s legacy?
DuVal’s legacy as a visionary leader in business and community development in Virginia is significant. He has played a significant role in making Virginia a global leader in attracting new businesses and promoting workforce development.