Dierker is earning a degree in industrial engineering // Mizzou Engineering

May 3, 2024

For Jude Dierker, being a Tiger means embodying honesty, hard work and perseverance. He says that when he went to school here, he was surrounded by many wonderful people who helped him instill these qualities.

As a student athlete, Dierker was also involved in campus organizations such as the Missouri Students Association and academic organizations including Alpha Pi Mu, an honor society for industrial engineering students.

After joining, Dierker will work at the Connors Group, an industrial engineering consultancy firm.

Read on for a Q&A with Dierker about his Mizzou Engineering experience.

Please tell us a little about yourself and why you chose Mizzou.

I come from a large family with six brothers and sisters. Growing up on a farm in Northern Kentucky was a wonderful experience that prepared me well for college life. I decided to come to Mizzou for athletics, but after a short time here I was so excited that this university had more to offer than just sports.

What made you interested in industrial engineering?

I like to see how I can get from point A to point B in the most efficient way possible, and industrial engineering offers just that. It focuses on mathematics and statistics to better understand where pain points are in a system and help alleviate them to improve the organization/process.

What is your favorite Mizzou Engineering memory?

It is recent, but it has certainly been used in my senior capstone project, which focuses on better patient flow at the University Hospital. Overall, it was a fun experience and I was able to develop some great and lasting relationships. Secondly, Steven Hogg’s sales technique course was a lot of fun and perhaps the most interactive class I have taken.

How did you get involved with Mizzou?

I am blessed to say that I have been a part of the swimming and diving team for the past four years at Mizzou. Additionally, I participated in clubs such as the Missouri Students Association, Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers, and Alpha Pi Mu Honor Society.

How has Mizzou Engineering helped you achieve your goals?

I was able to create many memories, develop lasting friendships, and gain valuable knowledge and skills that will all translate into my professional career and beyond.

What’s the next step for you after graduating?

In August I will be working for an industrial engineering consultancy called Connors Group. Before that, I am very excited to take a two-month trip to Europe, where I will walk the Camino de Santiago.