C
ourtney and Patrick Nussbeck’s story is typical of many University of Central Missouri alumni. Yet for the second consecutive summer, they are doing something far bigger than most UCM graduates ever attempt. They’ve employed 38 students, all members of the Mules Football team, to intern at their company, Aspen Contracting.
“The university is close to our home and business, and it just seemed like a perfect fit to give back to the program that gave us our education while teaching these athletes some real-world business experience,” said Courtney, marketing and events coordinator. The couple describe themselves as “college sweethearts,” having met as students in the Harmon College of Business and Professional Studies. Courtney was majoring in marketing
24
Vol. 16, No. 4 | ucmo.edu/ucmmagazine
and Pat in management. They graduated in 2003 with bachelor of science degrees in business administration and married in 2005. The way their company started also has a familiar ring. To help finance college, Pat worked summers in a sales position in the roofing industry, thanks to an introduction by his older brother. Once he graduated, he worked as a project consultant for a variety of roofing contractors, gaining valuable insider knowledge. Realizing he wanted to pursue his own venture, Pat together with his brother started their own company in 2006. This summer, the Nussbecks created internships for 38 UCM football players, roughly one-third of the football team. The students represent a variety of academic programs, including business, engineering
DAV ID BAB CO C K
by Steven Spears