A Legacy of Mentorship: Dr. Clark Rucker Helps Empower the Next Generation of Bronco Leaders

In a recent conversation, distinguished alumnus and former Boeing executive Clark Rucker (’83 Engineering Technology, Honorary Doctorate ’23) reflected on what it truly means to be a Bronco at heart. Despite his extensive career in engineering and business, Rucker emphasized that his identity as a Cal Poly Pomona (CPP) alum is central to his life’s work and values. It’s this identity, he explained, that drives his commitment to mentoring the next generation of Bronco leaders.

Rucker’s journey began long before his days at CPP, with a childhood curiosity about the inner workings of the world around him. “When I was young, I had a great propensity for ‘all things technical,’” explains Rucker.

This passion for understanding how things worked naturally led him to pursue a degree in Engineering Technology at Cal Poly Pomona. The hands-on education he received, coupled with the support of professors, mentors, and fellow students, laid the foundation for a successful career in aerospace, spanning roles at General Dynamics, Northrop, and ultimately, Boeing.

But for Rucker, success is not just measured by personal achievements; it’s about giving back. Rucker has long been involved as a mentor and role model for students studying at Cal Poly Pomona. Now, his commitment has taken on a new dimension as he steps into a pivotal role in the College of Business Administration and Singelyn Graduate School of Business’s dedicated mentorship program.

“Let’s begin with what mentoring really is. As a professional, some of us have spent 20, 30, maybe 40+ years in a profession. What a shame it would be for us to take all of that knowledge, all of those years of experiences and insights, to our graves and not share it with those that are just beginning their career journey.” - Clark Rucker, (’83 Engineering Technology, Honorary Doctorate ’23)

Rucker now directs the Bronco Mentorship Excellence Program which focuses on connecting College of Business Administration (CBA) and Singelyn Graduate School of Business (SGSB) students with prosperous futures. Modeled after CPP’s successful Bronco Mentoring Network, and administered through CPP alumni affairs, the Bronco Mentorship Excellence Program will be geared towards the unique needs of business students. In his role, Rucker will focus on growing the CBA + SGSB mentor base, and by working with alumni affairs and the career center, he will help design and promote activities to develop the next generation of business students.

Singelyn Family Dean Sandeep Krishnamurthy says, “The research is clear. A mentor can change the course of a student’s life by providing them with the right career guidance. Our college’s student success model starts with an influential mentor who will help our Business Broncos find their way by applying their knowledge to get a great job. We are thrilled that Dr. Rucker will be leading these efforts. His superpower is mentorship and there is nobody in the entire world I would rather have in this role."

Rucker sees his role as ensuring that these students leave CPP with “all the right stuff” – the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to succeed in their chosen fields. He’s passionate about aligning students with mentors who can help them navigate the complex landscape of today’s job market, ensuring they are not only prepared but confident as they step into the professional world.

Rucker offers sage advice to current CPP students on how to make the most of their time at the university. “Study hard and keep your grades up. Join clubs and organizations on campus. And of course, network, network, network.”

But beyond these practical tips, Rucker shares deeper wisdom passed down from his own mentors. “Help others be successful,” he encourages. “Remain optimistic: It’s infectious. Stretch, learn and grow. If you’re comfortable, you’re probably not reaching far enough.” These principles, he believes, are the keys to not only professional success but personal fulfillment as well.

One story Rucker shared illustrates the profound impact mentorship can have. A recent graduate, one of Rucker’s mentees, had taken a job that seemed promising on paper but left her feeling unfulfilled. Despite advice from many to “go for it,” Rucker had cautioned her that it might not be the right fit. A few months into the job, she reached out to Rucker, acknowledging that he had been right. Together, they discussed new opportunities that better aligned with her skills and passions. This story, Rucker says, is just one of many that keep him dedicated to mentoring. “These stories are what keep my heart beating and making me want to do what I do every day,” he reflected.

As Rucker encourages others to volunteer as mentors, he reminds them of the value such guidance can offer to students.

“Think back to when you were in college and how nice it would have been to have someone, in your field, to talk to about the things that you needed to do to be successful in your career,” he urges. Mentors, he believes, are invaluable in helping students navigate their paths and avoid pitfalls that could hinder their success.

For Rucker, the ultimate reward of mentoring is seeing the impact it has on the lives of students and knowing that he has contributed to their success. As the College of Business Administration’s mentorship program takes off, Rucker’s leadership and dedication will undoubtedly shape the future of many aspiring professionals, helping them to not only achieve their career goals but to do so with the knowledge and confidence that comes from having a mentor who truly cares.