Francisco Collazo

Background

Collazo was born in the city of Utuado, Puerto Rico and grew up on his father"s farm.

Education

Collazo attended the University of Texas in Austin, Texas where he earned a bachelor"s degree in Mathematics and Computer Science and later earned a master of Computer Systems Engineering from the Southeastern Institute of Technology.

Career

In 2012, COLSA Corporation was recognized by Hispanic Business Magazine as being one of the top 100 Hispanic Businesses in the United States. There he received his primary education. In 1946, he dropped out of high school and joined the United States Army.

He continued his education while serving in the military and retired from the Army after 30 years of service with the rank of Chief Warrant Officer.

In 1980, they founded in the garage of their home. The principal idea behind the foundation of the new company, who had 20 employees by 1983, to provide systems analysis and engineering in support of air defense systems material development.

That same year, the Government awarded COLSA its first prime contract. The company moved from Collazo"s garage to South Memorial Parkway in Huntsville and later to Sparkman Drive.

The company is current;y located in Cummings Research Park.

In 2003, COLSA acquired Huntsville-based Pace and Waite, Incorporated., and Digital Wizards, Incorporated. Among COLSA’s are National Aeronautics and Space Administration, United States. Navy, Defense Intelligence Agency and the Missile Defense Agency. Under Collazo"s leadership the company"s growth includes regional offices in Washington, District of Columbia.

Orlando, Florida.

Shalimar, Florida. San Diego, California, Colorado Springs, Colorado and Sierra Vista, Arizona. On January 2, 1996, Collazo incorporated Collazo Enterprises the primary holding company that owns all stock in, COLSA International, FJC Growth Capital, and Farm Credit Administration Properties.

In 2000, established the Collazo (COLSA) Scholarship at the University of Alabama. The scholarship is awarded to full-time students majoring in Engineering, Science, Mathematics, or Technology and is based on academic merit, leadership potential, and contributions to school and community.

He continues to be the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of In May 2003, he was awarded the honorary degree of Doctor of Science from the University of Alabama in Huntsville.

On October 25, 2012, COLSA Corporation was recognized by Hispanic Business Magazine as being one of the top 100 Hispanic Businesses in the United States.

Achievements

• Among Collazo "s decorations are the following: Bronze Star Medal (with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster) Meritorious Service Medal National Defense Service Medal (with 1 bronze Service Star) Vietnam Service Medal (with 4 bronze Service Stars) Vietnam Campaign Meda