Electrical engineering alum David Olivencia has carved an impressive path from his college days gaining technical and leadership skills that have forged him into becoming a driving force that’s empowering other Hispanic entrepreneurs and leaders in the tech industry. His journey showcases the transformative power of a Rose-Hulman education, networking, vision, determination, and a commitment to creating opportunities for others.

"Rose gave me the vision of the ways technology would dramatically shape the world,” says the 1994 graduate. “I always tell people, if I can get through differential equations and calculus, I can solve anything."

Olivencia is the chief executive officer and co-founder of Angeles Investors, an entity of 400+ members that aims to grow the most promising Hispanic and Latinx ventures (investing about $15 million in 27 startups). He also is a best-selling author of “NetWORKing Excellence: Building a Strong Value-Based Network in an Accelerating Digital World” and a sought-after speaker for his perspectives on technology disruption, early-stage investing, networking excellence, and leadership issues.

His business background includes senior executive positions with Nippon Telegraph & Telephone, Ford Motor Company, Oracle, Verizon, Softtek, and Accenture. He has been recognized among Hispanic Business Magazine’s Most Influential Hispanics in America, 40 under 40 by Crain’s Detroit Business, and Crain’s Chicago Tech 50.

Born to immigrant parents from Puerto Rico in Gary, Indiana, Olivencia became the first in his family to earn a college degree. The rigorous education at Rose-Hulman instilled in Olivencia a confidence that continues to impact his approach to life and business. “I loved what they were doing in computer science (at Rose), and I could continue playing football (which he did for two seasons),” he explains. “I was really scared I wouldn’t make it out of college and scared I wouldn’t have options. I literally studied all the time. I graduated early.”

At Rose-Hulman, Olivencia was at the forefront of technological advancements, from communicating via the internet to Germany in 1992 to creating the first PowerPoint presentation on an overhead display in 1993.

His tenacity, leadership skills, and technical abilities caught the eye of companies across the country. "Here I was, a 21-year-old kid, consulting with clients around the country on systems, technology, strategy and implementations," he recalls.

Olivencia's journey took an entrepreneurial turn in 2020 when he co-founded Angeles Investors. As CEO, he now leads a company aimed at finding, funding, and growing promising Hispanic-led or supported startups. This venture allows him to leverage his vast network and experience to address the significant funding gap faced by Latino entrepreneurs.

He credits his Rose-Hulman education for providing him with the following critical skills that have contributed to his career success:

• Complex Problem Solving: "Rose gives you the confidence and techniques to successfully break down problems that come your way in business and in life and solve them," Olivencia remarks.
• Teamwork: "I learned the most efficient way to study, solve tough problems, and learn was with a team. Also, learned how to work with diverse team members."
• Prioritization and Time Management: "One of the key things I learned was prioritization and managing time."
• Exposure to Brilliant Peers: "At Rose-Hulman, I was hanging out with some very bright people and it helped push me and made me become a better student and person."

Olivencia's journey from a Rose graduate to a leader in tech and entrepreneurship exemplifies the impact of a strong educational foundation combined with relentless drive and a commitment to empowering others. His work continues to inspire and create opportunities for the next generation of Hispanic leaders in STEM and technology, showcasing the far-reaching influence of a Rose-Hulman education.