Carlos I. Gutierrez,'63, BSME

Born to migrant workers in Deming, Carlos Gutierrez joined the Army during the Korean War and was honorably discharged with a rank of sergeant. He enrolled in home-study high school, then went on to attend NMSU where he received his bachelor of science in mechanical engineering in 1963. He received his master of science in mechanical engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1969.

Gutierrez spent most of his career working for the Department of Defense. After retirement, he went on to serve as a consultant for companies like General Dynamics, Elmhurst Research, Inc. and Albatross. He formed Sol Control Company, a solar systems corporation and he ventured into real estate in Troy, New York.

In 2014, Gutierrez made a significant 10-year pledge to the NMSU College of Engineering. Money from the pledge helps the college’s current use fund and builds the Carlos I. and Patricia B. Gutierrez Endowment Scholarship. He also supports students in Jalisco, Mexico, who cannot afford to attend college. Gutierrez first created the scholarship program in Mexico by providing $1,000 for 20 students from low-income high schools. The first set of students who received the scholarships are now graduating.

Gutierrez and his wife, Patricia, raised four children: daughters Debbie, Natalie, and Carla and son Carlos.