Richard Fierro - SDSU Alumnus & Decorated Army Veteran
Feb 29, 2024
After serving as a US Army Officer for 14 years and completing 4 combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, Rich has worked as both a defense contractor for Northrop Grumman; as well as an Air Force Federal employee with the US Space Command’s Academic Engagement Enterprise.
On November 19, 2022, Rich and his family were at the scene of the Club Q mass shooting, where Rich was credited with helping subdue the gunman. For his efforts he’s received numerous awards such as the 2023 Congressional Medal of Honor Society's - Citizen Honors Award for Valor; the VFW Life Saving Award for Valor; and the Veteran of the year National Able Network award.
Additionally, Rich works with his wife Jessica to operate their own brewery—Atrevida—in Colorado Springs. Atrevida’s motto is “Diversity, it’s on tap!” and Atrevida strives to demonstrate diversity in everything it does. Atrevida has won multiple awards such as the 2019 Colorado Governor’s Minority Small Business of the Year award.
Rich has his BA in Education from SDSU and earned his MBA from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs in 2021. Above all Rich is committed to serving his family and community.
The following conversation includes some discussion of violence and deep personal loss. Please engage with this content in a manner that’s safe to you.