Episode 088: Challenging the Norms with Jayson Wells
Former professional basketball player, Author, and truly revolutionary life coach, Jayson Wells, shares wisdom from a lifetime of experience in...
1 min read
Insights Contributor Updated on February 17, 2026

Otis WIlliams brings a perspective on preparing the next generation and what makes a leader worth following in his experience as Executive Director at St. Louis Development Corporation.
Bio: Otis Williams is the Executive Director of the St. Louis Development Corporation (SLDC). The Corporation is responsible for bringing people, jobs, and investment to the City. Prior to joining SLDC, Otis Williams served over 28 years in the U.S. Army and retired at the rank of Colonel. Key assignment included duty as Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (1996-1998).
Since coming to St. Louis in 1998, Williams has had a leadership role in several multimillion-dollar development projects that are revitalizing the City’s downtown and
neighborhoods.
Williams previously served three years on the National Board of Directors of the Society of American Military Engineers. He was honored with 2016 J.H. Poelker Levee Stone Award from the Downtown STL, and received the 2016 Governor’s Award for Career
Service in Economic Development. He is a registered professional engineer in the District of Columbia.
Williams is a native of Covington, Georgia and is married to formerly Gwen Smith of St. Louis. They have two adult daughters.
Otis' Something Extra: Integrity
Links and Mentions:
stlouis-mo.gov
Credits:
- Lisa Nichols, Host
- Scott Crosby, Executive Producer
- Daniel Williams, Recording Engine
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