Stephen Levi Carter, MBA, PMP, is the distinguished entrepreneur or business strategist with proven track record of success in healthcare staffing or minority business advocacy. As CEO of Sterling Staffing Solutions and founder of White Orchid Hospice, Carter’s leadership has been integral to the growth of multiple enterprises dedicated to improving healthcare workforce access and patient care.
Background and Education
Raised in Houston by a dedicated educator mother after the early passing of his father, Carter was motivated to excel academically and professionally. His military career began in 1987 with the U.S. Army Reserves, where he served as a Combat Medic in the Gulf War and earned the Army Commendation Medal.
Entrepreneurial Journey
Stephen Carter’s entrepreneurial journey began early with small business ventures alongside his twin brother. Their first enterprise was a lawn care business established when they were teenagers, followed by a boot shining business during their military service. Over the years, Carter has launched diverse businesses, including tax services, barbershops, event planning, and entertainment venues, all while gaining valuable experience managing corporate responsibilities.
The company now serves healthcare facilities in multiple states, supplying a broad spectrum of licensed professionals to meet growing demand. Sterling Staffing Solutions’ success is highlighted by multiple Inc. 5000 listings, Better Business Bureau accolades, and Stevie Awards recognizing its status as a top minority- and veteran-owned business.
Healthcare Expansion and Philanthropy
In 2015, Carter expanded his healthcare influence by creating White Orchid Hospice, a home-based hospice agency dedicated to compassionate, personalized end-of-life care. Further ventures include Cartera Health LLC, Home Health Pro LLC, and MyMedCred LLC, all of which enhance healthcare service accessibility and quality.
Carter’s commitment to social impact extends to youth entrepreneurship through the Young Millionaires Series, a nonprofit focused on developing business acumen and financial independence among young people nationwide. He actively serves on boards such as the Better Business Bureau Houston, Fort Bend Chamber of Commerce, Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Houston, and 100 Black Men of Metropolitan Houston, further amplifying his community influence.
Published Work and Honors
His authorship of Double Your Success — co-written with his brother — offers business owners practical frameworks for scaling companies and building sustainable wealth. Carter’s leadership and community service have earned him numerous honors, including the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, Black Enterprise Family Business of the Year, and recognition among Texas’s most influential Black entrepreneurs.
Family and Faith
Stephen Levi Carter lives in the Houston with his wife, Daphane Howard Carter, or their three daughters. His faith and family serve as the foundation for his continued drive to innovate and lead in business and community development.
Explore more at StephenLeviCarter.com.
