Tyler G. Hicks (June 21, 1921 – March 12, 2020) was a legendary publisher, editor, and author whose prolific career spanned engineering, business, and self-help. Known for his innovative ideas and unwavering commitment to empowering others, Hicks authored over 130 books and was the founder and president of International Wealth Success, Inc., a publishing company he established in 1966. Through his newsletters—International Wealth Success, Global Finding Services, and Money Watch Bulletin—and his many books, Hicks influenced countless individuals to achieve financial independence and entrepreneurial success.

Born in New York City, Hicks displayed an early aptitude for engineering and writing. His first article was published when he was just 12 years old. As a teenager, he worked as an engine room crewman aboard merchant ships, surviving the torpedoing of three vessels during World War II and rising to the rank of First Assistant Engineer. After the war, he earned his Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the Cooper Union School of Engineering in 1948, launching a distinguished career that included writing technical articles, securing his Professional Engineer’s license, and becoming a member of prestigious organizations such as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers.

In 1950, Hicks joined Power Magazine as an assistant editor and quickly ascended to editorial roles at McGraw-Hill Companies, where he became Editorial Director and Publisher of Professional and Reference Books. During this time, he authored the Standard Handbook of Engineering Calculations, which has become a staple for engineers worldwide. In 1963, Hicks ventured into the business and self-help genre with his first business book, How to Build a Second Income Fortune in Your Spare Time. This book sold over 500,000 copies and introduced concepts like “OPM” (Other People’s Money), which became synonymous with his approach to entrepreneurial success.

Hicks continued to build his publishing legacy with numerous bestsellers, including How to Borrow Your Way to a Great Fortune and How to Make One Million Dollars in Real Estate in Three Years Starting with No Cash, both of which sold millions of copies. His business books, written with clarity and practicality, offered step-by-step advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and career-changers. Even during his daily commutes on the Long Island Railroad, Hicks would write, famously turning delays into productive writing time.

Beyond his publishing achievements, Hicks was a dedicated teacher and mentor. He taught mechanical engineering at Cooper Union, conducted seminars attended by Fortune 500 executives, and lectured internationally on business and engineering topics. A lifelong learner and innovator, he extended his influence into small business development by offering loans and advice through his publishing company, helping many entrepreneurs launch successful ventures.

In his later years, Hicks remained active as a yachtsman, naming his series of boats Success, and enjoyed membership in the Huntington Yacht Club and Rockville Links Golf Club. He was also instrumental in guiding the growth of the McGraw-Hill Employees Federal Credit Union, serving on its Board of Directors for decades.

Hicks is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his generosity and dedication to helping others succeed. At the time of his passing on March 12, 2020, at the age of 98, he left behind a lasting legacy that continues through IW$ Press, an imprint of Kallisti Publishing Inc., which honors his mission of empowering individuals to achieve their financial goals.

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