Bill Lester Speaking Fee: $30,000 to $50,000

Bill Lester's journey from Silicon Valley engineer to professional race car driver is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Born and raised in California, Lester earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science from the University of California, Berkeley. He then spent 15 years at Hewlett-Packard, where he worked as a computer scientist and project manager. Despite a successful career in technology, Lester couldn't shake his childhood dream of racing. At the age of 40, he made the bold decision to leave the corporate world and pursue auto racing full-time. Entering the racing scene as an African American in his forties, Lester faced skepticism and challenges. Undeterred, he began competing in amateur road-racing events, quickly showcasing his talent and determination. His persistence paid off when he attracted the attention of team owners, leading to opportunities in professional racing. Lester's professional racing career spanned over a decade, during which he competed in prestigious series such as the SCCA Trans-Am Series, IMSA Series, and the NASCAR Truck Series. In 2006, he made history by becoming the first African American driver in 20 years to compete in NASCAR's premier Cup Series. Throughout his career, Lester achieved notable success, including earning three pole positions and securing multiple top-10 finishes. Beyond the track, Lester has been a prominent advocate for diversity in motorsports. His memoir, Winning in Reverse: Defying the Odds and Achieving Dreams—The Bill Lester Story, published in February 2021, chronicles his unconventional path and the obstacles he overcame. The book serves as a motivational guide, encouraging readers to pursue their passions despite societal expectations. In March 2021, at the age of 60, Lester made a remarkable return to racing by participating in the NASCAR Truck Series at Atlanta Motor Speedway. This comeback not only highlighted his enduring passion for the sport but also underscored his commitment to promoting diversity within NASCAR. Today, Lester continues to inspire audiences as a keynote speaker, sharing his insights on discipline, resilience, and the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone to achieve greatness.