Matt Leach

Please describe your position and what you enjoy most about it.

I’m currently a Senior Procurement Representative at the Black & Veatch Corporation headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. Specifically, I negotiate and execute subcontracts for engineering and constructing data centers across the United States. I most enjoy working with these varied contractors from around the country to help us complete our projects. In addition, it’s incredibly rewarding to feel that the structures we’re building help people at work and at home every day.

 

What aspects of your HLGU experience helped you prepare for your career?

There are several experiences that come to mind, but I’ll only mention the most prominent. The most impactful experience was having the opportunity to conduct the Needs Assessment Survey for the local chapter of the United Way. It allowed me to lead a group of peers and to delegate work according to individual strengths. The other experience was playing on the men’s basketball team, which prepared me to embrace my role working in a team environment.

 

What HLGU professors played a part in your success? How did your relationship with faculty help you succeed?

Jerry Allen was undoubtedly the professor that had the most impact in the success that I’ve experienced since graduating. Along with teaching many of the courses I took, he was also my advisor. He offered copious amounts of practical knowledge for both personal and professional success through stories of his life working as a small business owner and cattle farmer.

 

Please list any scholarships, honors, or awards you received as an undergraduate or graduate.

• Wachovia Academic Achievement Scholarship
• Magna Cum Laude
• Dr. Burt Memorial Award
• Business Faculty Award

 

Do you have any tips to share with students interested in this field?

There is one piece of advice that I’d like to share that had a profound impact on the trajectory of my career. For those still pursuing their undergraduate degree, it is important to get practical work experience to pair with your diploma. Working as a laborer throughout high school and college taught me many hands-on lessons about the construction industry, which allowed me to accept a wonderful career opportunity upon graduating. Having a functional knowledge of an industry as well as business acumen could give you an edge in interviewing for your first professional job.

 

What are some of your favorite HLGU memories?

Some of my most fond memories are of spending time in the Fletcher lobby during the first weekend of March Madness every year with a dozen guys from my floor. Also, the late-night conversations with friends about everything from music to sports to faith are memories that I’ll cherish always.