A Managers Mission: Dana Marquez

This week we bring you installment #7 of MOAM's blog series featuring former student managers now achieving success in their professional careers.

Professional: Dana Marquez
Current Title: Director of Equipment Operations for Auburn University
Student Manager Experience: Colorado State 

Career Notes: Dana Marquez has worked many places throughout the sports industry and is an excellent individual to be featured for Managers on a Mission. His hometown is Littleton, Colorado. He attended Colorado State University where he studied sports sciences and management. While attending Colorado State he asked quarterback Kevin Verdugo, a close friend, how he could get involved with the football team. Verdugo suggested that he go talk to equipment manager Pete Brickhofer. Marquez fell in love with equipment while completing his tenure at Colorado State. After his time as a manager, he landed an internship with the Denver Broncos. After his stint with the Broncos, Marquez served as a marketing consultant for the Denver Grizzlies of the IHL from 1993-1994. He then went on to serve as Director of Marketing for the Colorado Foxes from 1994-1995. He again served as a marketing consultant for the Portland Winterhawks of the WHL from 1997-1998. Once again he got back into the equipment side of things serving as football equipment manager at Oregon State from 2001-2002. He landed his first Director of Equipment Operations job at the University of California serving from 2002-2005. After this tenure, he served as the Western Regional Promotion Manager for Schutt Sports group. Marquez then traveled to Auburn University in 2006 working for the Equipment Staff. He took direct responsibility over football in 2009, as well as Director of Equipment Operations. He now oversees all aspects of the equipment and apparel for all of Auburn’s 21 varsity teams. He is married to his wife, Liz. The couple has one daughter, Jordan. 

Dana took the time to answer a few questions for Managers On A Mission:

1. What advice would you offer current student managers?

Find something you love in sports and volunteer your time before you commit fully. Make sure you love the field. 

2. What is the biggest takeaway from your experience as a student manager that remains with you to this day?

It does not matter what others think. Work hard and things will fall into place.

3. Who were the key influences during your career? 

Without a doubt, my biggest influence has been my dad. He owned his own company and always told me no one will ever give you anything. He said to learn as much about your field and be the most prepared.

To God Be The Glory!

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