Alex Valicek
Alex Valicek on heavy equipment
Valicek family

About Alex

Alex is from Houston, Texas. Already an AGEC 425 “Survivor,” he is currently a senior at Texas A&M with plans to graduate in December of 2023 with a degree in Agricultural Economics – Rural Entrepreneurship. Alex is also the president of his company, NOCO Services. He enjoys running heavy equipment and being at the ranch in his free time to keep himself busy.

Alex competed in the 2023 Texas Farm Credit Entrepreneurial Dreams Symposium. He was named a Top 6 finalist with his AGEC 425 project, Valicek Dirt Construction.  Alex also received the following awards:

  • Honorable Mention Final Business Pitch Presentation
  • 2nd Place Preliminary Business Pitch
  • Most Likely to Start Business Award
  • AGEC 425 Westfall Business Pitch Engagement Award
What motivated you to join the Rister ’74 Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program?

I have never liked the idea of working for someone else and have always found it necessary to capitalize on the opportunities offered to me. I currently own and operate a dirt-work company which I started while in high school. When I found the Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program, I was interested in just the name alone. Little did I know that the program had so much to offer. This program has helped me immensely in planning for the future of my career.

What does “entrepreneurship” mean to you?

To me, entrepreneurship happens when passion meets persistence. It is the will to take an idea or dream and make it profitable. This concept is not something that everyone cherishes, because it often takes away from comfort. But in my opinion, it is worth it.

What is a quote that has influenced your career and why?

I have learned so much from all of the former students and mentors who I have encountered within the program. One mentor, Mr. Jim Pillans, told the class to “fish where the fish are.” I think that this is a very straightforward and simple concept that can be instrumental in a business setting.

What are some lessons you have learned related to business, entrepreneurship, or professionalism?

The most important lesson that I have learned related to the program came from a man named George Nelson. He asked me about a goal I had within my business related to maximizing profit. He specifically wanted to know what profit meant to me. I gave him what I thought was a tremendous answer. After shaking his head slightly, he asked me if I had ever heard of the core values of Texas A&M and went on to say that it is essential that I learn them and live by them. From that day forward, I have them down by heart. I now realize that profit comes when intentions are pure. He simply gave me a new perspective on the goals within a successful business.

From specific events I have attended, the best part of the Rister ’74 Agribusiness Entrepreneurship experience was meeting professionals who are constantly willing to help and share their knowledge. For example, the importance of a great reputation has been repeated constantly by several “Professor-for-a-Day” speakers, and that message is something that I will carry with me into my career.

Before my involvement in the program, I was also unaware of the importance of asking questions. This is a great way that we can show a person that we care about what they say and that we are listening to them. It is also a wonderful way to learn.

Alex Valicek ’23

NOCO Services

Alex’s business enterprise is a dirt-work construction company that focuses on building ponds, pads, and roads. He chose this business not only because he enjoys operating heavy equipment, but also he likes being around peers who are willing to work. In the future, Alex wants to continue growing his business within the dirt-work and heavy equipment industry.

What challenges have you faced throughout the duration of your business?

The biggest challenge that I have faced is managing my time. My classes have required a large amount of time outside of class each week. I was forced to make sacrifices as an AGEC 424/425 student in order to succeed. This is something that I find to be very important as an entrepreneur. If I did not have a passion for what I am doing, I would no longer be involved. From choosing this path, I have seen that a full workload has been a great way for me to prepare for life as full-time an entrepreneur. A full schedule has forced me to rid myself of procrastination habits. I believe that simply not allowing time to put things off is a very good trait to have. 

Describe your work with Ranch House Designs following the 2023 Texas Farm Credit Entrepreneurial Dreams Symposium. 

The Dianne and M. Edward Rister ‘74 Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program awarded me “Most Likely to Start the Business” along with an in-kind marketing scholarship from Ranch House Designs. We have been able to enhance our NOCO Services website greatly through this opportunity, and there is more to come! 

How did you incorporate your AGEC 425 business enterprise into your company?

I had to be proactive to have a successful project. This class was much more than just following along; we built a true business plan. The art of being proactive is very important in business. A successful entrepreneur is also a professional salesperson, and it takes persistence to market your product.  

What advice do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs?

I was pushed to constantly reach out to those around me as an AGEC 424/425 student. This experience has been super beneficial to me. They say that “your network is your net worth,” and I am confident that the connections that I have made as a student will put me ahead in the workforce. 

I tell my peers that there is so much to learn, but you must want it. Capitalize on the priceless opportunities that the Rister ‘74 Agribusiness Entrepreneurship program has to offer. There is always more to learn!