From Service to Success: Ray Resendez's Journey Through EMBA
Ray Resendez graduated from the Executive MBA in the fall 2020. He started the EMBA in spring 2019 as the owner of Ray’s BBQ. He now runs REZ IV Solutions a consulting business that capitalizes on his military training and small business experience.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your professional work experience before joining the program.
Before joining the Executive MBA program, I had a broad and varied career. My journey began in the military, where I held multiple leadership positions, honing my strategic and operational capabilities. After transitioning from the military, I launched a BBQ catering and food truck business, where I first applied my leadership and entrepreneurial skills in a business environment.
What drove you to seek out a Master’s in Business Administration?
I pursued an MBA to formalize my business skills and become a more effective entrepreneur and leader. While I had extensive hands-on experience in leadership, operations, and project management, I wanted a deeper understanding of business strategy, financial management, and marketing. The EMBA program was also a way for me to expand my professional network and learn from other industry leaders. It was a step towards growing my business ventures and understanding the larger strategic decisions that affect a company's success.
How has the program helped you in your profession?
The EMBA program has been a game changer. It provided the tools I needed to elevate my business knowledge and make informed decisions. The concepts I learned in strategy, finance, and leadership directly contributed to my ability to establish REZ IV Solutions and lead it successfully. The frameworks I gained in the program allow me to create customized solutions for my clients, including government contracting support and business development. The EMBA gave me a competitive edge, which I now use to help my clients thrive in the federal and commercial sectors.
Did you get a promotion or have a career change after completing your EMBA?
Yes, the Executive MBA played a key role in my becoming the Director of Operations at Tigua Inc. There I oversaw multiple contracts and drove operational efficiency across various sectors. The program gave me the tools to lead teams and manage large-scale projects, which directly influenced my success in that role.
Furthermore, as I matured and grew in this position, I decided to take a pivotal step in founding REZ IV Solutions, a consulting firm focused on business development, government contracting, and AI-driven solutions. My firm now supports companies across the country, helping them grow by securing federal contracts and streamlining their operations. The EMBA gave me the confidence and knowledge I needed to launch my own business and provide high-level consulting services nationwide.
The EMBA also provided the skills necessary for my role as Board President of the Community Resource Council, a nonprofit organization supporting the Shaeffer Halfway House for Juveniles. My education enables me to lead the nonprofit with the same strategic approach I apply to my business, ensuring we make a positive impact on the lives of at-risk youth.
What would you tell people considering the Executive MBA program?
The Executive MBA is an incredible investment in yourself. It offers more than just business education—it provides networking opportunities, leadership development, and a strong foundation in strategic thinking. For anyone in leadership or entrepreneurial roles, this program will give you the tools to grow both personally and professionally. The skills and relationships I developed through the EMBA have been invaluable in launching my business and contributing to my success as a leader in the community.
