For 2004 Economics graduate Matt Dierking, earning a degree from CSU Pueblo represented more than an academic achievement, it was an opportunity to reinvent himself and build a stronger future.
After spending several years in the workforce following his first college experience, Dierking arrived at CSU Pueblo with a renewed sense of purpose. “I came to Pueblo with a mission to rebuild myself and my career,” he said. “I came in hungrier and focused, making a difference in earning an improved GPA.”
One of the most impactful experiences during his time as a ThunderWolf was a spring 2004 internship with Commonwealth Financial. Working with Pueblo Bank and Trust, Dierking analyzed approved trust stocks and evaluated how investment portfolios could better align with long-term goals. The experience culminated in a formal presentation to the trust board, where he impressed members with both his analysis and ability to answer questions.
“While it did not lead to a true financial career, the tools learned in that internship and the other courses I took helped me better understand that part of the business and economy overall,” he said.
Following graduation, Dierking began his professional career with Ferguson Enterprises, where he worked in sales, contractor relations, and inventory control. After relocating to Farmington, New Mexico, he was tasked with addressing significant operational challenges at one of the company’s lowest-performing branches. Through staff training, improved inventory practices, and process improvements, he helped raise the branch’s internal operations score from 18 to 72, a transformation he remains particularly proud of.
His career later took him to Albuquerque, where he joined Mountain West Sales before beginning what would become a long and successful career at Sandia National Laboratories in 2011. Starting as a procurement buyer, Dierking steadily advanced through the organization and now serves as a Property Administrator, overseeing inventory controls and ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
At Sandia, he has continued to focus on process improvement, innovation, and collaboration. Most recently, he was part of a cross-departmental team that received the 2025 Employee Recognition Award for its efforts supporting workforce transition initiatives and helping the laboratory avoid layoffs during a period of federal funding changes.
Reflecting on his career, Dierking credits CSU Pueblo with providing a strong foundation in teamwork, business operations, and critical thinking.
His advice to current students and recent graduates is simple: “Don’t give up and be flexible in what you are willing to do in your career and studies. I have seen so many changes in technology and standards; you have to learn lessons in every step. If you are struggling, find a way to overcome it. You won’t be given anything in life, so go make it happen.”
Today, Dierking stays connected to CSU Pueblo through alumni publications and friendships formed during his time on campus. While distance and family commitments make engagement more challenging, he remains proud of his ThunderWolf roots and grateful for the experiences that helped shape his professional journey.
From rebuilding his academic path to leading operational improvements and supporting national laboratory initiatives, Dierking’s story is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the value of lifelong learning.
