Richard L. Wong has dedicated his career to advancing projects that balance social, economic, and environmental needs. Wong has dedicated his career to advancing projects that balance social, economic, and environmental needs. As chief executive officer of ECS Design Inc. since 1995 and founder of Smart City CA USA, he focuses on developing solutions that address real issues facing cities, such as homelessness, downtown revitalization, and community engagement. For Wong, creating smarter cities is not just about technology: it is about people.
Current Initiatives: AI Ethics and Global Humanity
Wong’s journey continues with his relentless work on humanity. Quite recently, a publication by GovTech.com emphasized Wong’s vision of a Smart City. The report, developed by New America’s Rethink AI coalition, aims to provide governments and other entities with AI adoption and recommendations. Four key areas of importance include human-centered AI, civil rights, risk management, and security. Furthermore, Wong’s work with his communities prepared him for a trip to Cuba to observe the environmental effects on citizens in the region.
Collaboration Drives Sustainable Progress
Wong believes progress happens when public and private entities work together towards shared goals. “That’s where we can really meet together eye to eye, and be able to prognosticate and advance this endeavor that society needs,” he says. His collaborative vision has inspired city officials across the Bay Area to think differently about how local governments can partner with nonprofits and private industry to meet community needs.
Before leading Smart City CA, USA, Wong spent over three decades managing Energy Conservation Services (ECS) Design Inc. Through that company, he worked on mechanical and electrical systems that promoted energy efficiency across industries. His experience with high-tech components, including laser systems and computer storage devices, gave him an early appreciation for how technology can support sustainable growth.
When Wong founded Smart City CA USA in 2020, he envisioned a nonprofit serving as a bridge between technology, policy, and humanity. The organization promotes programs focused on energy use, the environment, and urban renewal while encouraging civic collaboration among government leaders, engineers, and community advocates. He has helped shape initiatives to improve mental health services, workforce development, and cultural understanding in diverse communities.
Civic Engagement Guided by Empathy
Wong views his leadership as a calling rooted in empathy. Born in Hong Kong and raised in South America, he has experienced life through multiple cultural lenses. “That’s how I picked up all of that humanistic empathy for people,” he says. His faith and sense of purpose have also guided his career decisions and motivated him to focus on work that benefits others.
Participation in civic and political groups is vital to Wong’s initiatives. In this capacity, he shares ideas and connects with local leaders. His involvement in organizations such as the Democratic Central Committee, the Act Blue Democratic Club, and ICMA (International City/County Management Association) reflects his commitment to open dialogue and active citizenship. By engaging elected officials and government employees in discussions about urban planning, he hopes to inspire long-term thinking and meaningful collaboration.
In 2019, the California Legislative Assembly and the U.S. Congress recognized Wong for community service. However, he views such honors as reminders of responsibility rather than personal achievement. Meanwhile, he remains focused on strengthening connections among city governments, nonprofit programs, and residents.
A Human-Centered Vision for Cities
Through Smart City CA USA, Wong continues to promote the idea that a city’s strength lies in its people. He advocates for projects that improve quality of life through sustainable design, equitable access to resources, and environmental responsibility. His work reflects a broader movement across California to rethink how cities function by integrating technology with compassion and civic engagement.
As a community leader and father, Wong measures success by the positive changes he helps inspire. His passion for service extends beyond boardrooms and construction sites, including cultural programs and martial arts instruction. Each endeavor is part of a greater effort to build understanding among people.
Wong’s career conveys that the future of cities depends on collaboration, empathy, and the willingness to act on shared values. “I believe that is a calling and it’s given from God,” he says. “It’s very difficult to explain, but that’s what I believe.” Through his leadership, he continues to remind others that progress begins when communities come together with purpose.
Get Involved: Support Smart City’s Mission
Smart City CA, USA, relies on the power of community and partnership to advance human-centered solutions. The company invites individuals and organizations to collaborate with them on initiatives for mental health, workforce development, and environmental sustainability in California.
The company is currently accepting donations to support its nonprofit work, as well as grant and funding proposals from governmental and corporate entities and private foundations. Likewise, Smart City CA, USA, is always looking to extend volunteer and partnership opportunities to anyone who might be interested in assisting with their mission.
