Connect with purpose, grow with intention

David Wells is a relational strategist and managing partner at NETWORK UP, where he advances a distinctive approach to business networking rooted in intentional connection, trusted referrals, and purposeful growth. At the heart of his work is a simple but powerful belief: relationships are the currency of business success, and the right connection at the right time can change a trajectory.

David’s journey into professional networking didn’t start in a boardroom — it began in disciplined environments where leadership and service mattered most. He earned his MBA from Texas A&M University and a BS in Computer Science from Chapman University, and then served more than a decade in the military, where leadership, character, and teamwork became central to how he views business and community.

Before NETWORK UP, David helped co-found The 1010 Project, a nonprofit based in Colorado that he served as board chairman for five years. That experience deepened his commitment to serving communities and helping people solve real challenges, both personal and professional — a commitment that would later shape his approach to business networking.

In 2022, David’s journey took a defining turn when his wife, Joyce, invited him to become her partner in Cougar Connection, recognizing the opportunity to build something bigger together. What began as Cougar Connection has grown into NETWORK UP, a forward-thinking business community focused on helping professionals get known, get connected, and grow on purpose.

In his role leading NETWORK UP, David blends strategic vision and relational leadership. He helps members become more intentional about how they cultivate networks, leverage referrals, and engage with peers and mentors who accelerate their growth. His leadership emphasizes trust, consistency, and purpose — principles that show up in every meeting, conversation, and connection he helps create.

Outside of community building, David pursues passions that reflect his adventurous, disciplined spirit — from flying and cycling to racquetball and travel. These interests, like his work, are grounded in curiosity and connection.

Joyce Wells’ journey into community leadership and business networking didn’t start with a plan — it evolved from her deep belief in the power of relationships and a life shaped by growth, connection, and purpose. A longtime University of Houston Lifetime Alumni, Joyce first found herself back on campus in 2017 when her youngest son began his college journey. That return to UH sparked more than nostalgia — it reignited her passion for community and meaningful connection.

That same year, she was approached with an invitation that would change her professional path: to start a networking group for UH alumni. Joyce said “yes,” and Cougar Connection, LLC was born, marking the beginning of a journey from local alumni networking to leading what would become a broader, more intentional business community.

Joyce’s career has always centered on relationships. Back in 2009, while working as a paralegal, she embraced her entrepreneurial spirit by building a successful network as a representative for a luxury men’s custom clothing brand — recruiting hundreds through connection and trust long before she ever launched her first group.

Under her leadership, Cougar Connection grew with heart — bringing business owners and professionals together in ways that felt personal, purposeful, and impactful. Evolving into NETWORK UP, Joyce continues to weave her passion for people into every gathering, helping members not just meet one another, but truly connect with purpose and potential.

Joyce doesn’t just build networking groups — she builds communities that nurture growth. She is deeply involved in the success of every member, guiding them to get known, get connected, and grow their business with confidence. Her approach is relational, intentional, and rooted in the belief that real growth happens when people are connected in ways that matter.

Outside of NETWORK UP, Joyce enjoys saltwater fishing, kickboxing, ballroom dance, and gardening — pursuits that reflect her balance of adventure, discipline, creativity, and care.