David Wilson joined The Skillman Foundation in 2025 as the partnership manager of Ground Building, where he supports expanding education organizing power in Detroit.  

Originally from Silver Spring, Maryland, David has deep familial ties to the city of Detroit. A proud HBCU graduate, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University in Baltimore before moving to Detroit to build a career centered on community impact.  

David has always had a strong passion for youth development and community engagement. He gained experience with organizations such as Advocates for Children and Youth and served as a congressional intern for Representative Steny Hoyer, D-Md. These early experiences helped shape and guide his professional journey. 

While working with City Year Detroit as a full-time mentor and tutor, he deepened his passion for supporting young people. This experience led to roles with the Detroit Tigers Foundation and the Detroit Pistons Community and Social Responsibility Department, where he supported programs benefiting youth across Metro Detroit. 

Following his time with the Detroit Pistons, David spent three years leading The Fly Initiative with the YMCA of Metro Detroit, an effort focused on providing access to youth sports and healthy foods in underserved communities across Southeast Michigan.  

Prior to joining the Foundation, he served as a program supervisor in the Office of Equity, Family, and Community Engagement with the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD). 

David currently resides in the Metro Detroit area with his wife, son, and two dogs. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with family, running, and traveling.

Areas of expertise:
Relationship building, community engagement, and youth development

How I reenergize:
Exercising, enjoying good food, and spending quality time with loved ones

A quote that describes my outlook:
“Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth.” – Muhammad Ali