EVSC Alumni Spotlight
North High School Alumni of 1986
David Cosby, President & CEO of Qadco and Napa Auto Parts; President of Ace Hardware
David’s advice for today’s juniors and seniors:
“Find the right mentors. That’s everything. I had a spiritual mentor—Bob Nall; a business mentor—Mike McGregor; a family mentor—Charlie Hurt; and of course, my dad was my work ethic mentor. Everyone has a purpose and a talent, but you have to want it for yourself.”
Getting to Know Our EVSC Alumni
From Auto Parts to Impact: How One Local Business Owner Turned Grit into a Life of Giving Back
When David reflects on his high school years, it’s not the typical pep rallies or prom nights that come to mind. A 1986 graduate of North High School, David started his high school journey at Harrison before transferring to North for a unique opportunity—the Related Work Study program.
“I only took three classes a day and worked the rest,” he recalls. “I worked at my dad’s auto parts store, and that hands-on experience shaped a lot of who I am today.”
School wasn’t exactly David’s favorite place, but there were bright spots—especially in math and business classes. “I didn’t love school, but I liked the structure and logic of math and business. That’s where I found some connection,” he says. He credits two teachers, Chuck Stewart and Mr. McWilliams, as early mentors who encouraged him and kept him grounded during those years.
After spending years building his career—first joining a team with a local auto parts distributor, then eventually buying into the business—David now owns 12 NAPA stores, 2 ACE Hardware stores, and has invested in real estate. But he’s just as passionate about giving back as he is about business.
“I’ve been coaching for 29 years,” he shares. “That’s where I’ve had the chance to mentor athletes, not just in sports, but in life.”
A Commitment to Supporting Our Community
David’s involvement in the community has had a deep impact on both his personal and professional life. Coaching and mentoring have given him a sense of purpose and fulfillment that goes beyond any business success.
“I may not have enjoyed school back then,” he admits with a smile, “but I learned skills that stuck with me—responsibility, perseverance, problem solving, and how to work with people. Those have helped me every single day in running a business and being a leader.”
