Founder of Apparel Company to Share Valuable Experience as Colorado State’s Fall Entrepreneur in Residence

A perpetual businessman and Colorado State University’s 1994 Business Honor Alumnus will share his valuable experience and knowledge as the College of Business’ Entrepreneur-In-Residence.

Jerry Montiel will lecture and meet one-on-one with students from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Nov. 8 in Rockwell Hall on campus. He will answer questions and share insights on how to successfully start and run a business. Montiel has spent most of his career developing new businesses, focusing largely on consumer products and apparel.

In 1973, Montiel founded World of Arts and Craft Stores, which was recognized as the "top merchandised store" nationwide by Playthings magazine. The 14-store chain merged with Michael’s Arts and Crafts Stores in 1984, becoming the largest chain in the nation.

Montiel also co-founded Ashworth, the largest branded golf apparel company in the country, and served as president and CEO from its inception until 1995. The company was recognized in 1993, 1994 and 1995 as one of America’s 100 fastest growing public companies by Business Week, Fortune and Inc. magazines.

In 2000, Montiel founded Dickie Walker Marine Inc. and is serving as the company’s chairman of the board, chief executive officer, and chief financial officer. The company designs, manufactures, markets and distributes a line of boating apparel and accessories.

Montiel graduated from Colorado State with a bachelor’s degree in business administration.

The Entrepreneur-in-Residence program was developed in 1999 by Anne McCarthy, director for the Center for Entrepreneurial and Family Enterprises at Colorado State, to provide students with real-life experiences that traditional university courses often lack.

The event is sponsored by First National Bank and the Center for Entrepreneurial and Family Enterprises.