My name is Bruce W. Williams II, CTCM, and for more than 18 years I have dedicated my career to expanding economic opportunities for small businesses, veterans, and underserved entrepreneurs throughout Texas. My work has centered on helping businesses navigate public procurement, building meaningful partnerships between institutions and the business community, and creating pathways that allow companies to compete, grow, and succeed. I believe that when businesses are given access to opportunity, entire communities benefit through job creation, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.In my role as Assistant Director of Purchasing and HUB Programs at The University of Texas at San Antonio, I have had the privilege of leading initiatives that connect businesses with contracting opportunities, strengthen procurement practices, and drive measurable economic impact. Throughout my career, I have worked alongside business owners, contractors, community organizations, and public agencies to improve access to opportunities and remove barriers that often prevent small and emerging businesses from participating in government contracting. These efforts have helped create sustainable opportunities while supporting the mission of the institutions I serve. Receiving the 2026 Underserved Enterprise Development Veteran Advocate of the Year Award is especially meaningful because it reflects a cause I am deeply passionate about. Veterans bring exceptional leadership, discipline, and commitment to the business community, and I have been honored to support veteran-owned businesses through mentorship, outreach, training, and advocacy. This recognition is not only a reflection of my work but also of the many business owners, community partners, and public servants who work every day to ensure economic opportunity is accessible to all. I remain committed to opening doors, building connections, and helping create opportunities for future generations of entrepreneurs.