Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Community Service
Timeline
Generic

Derek Wenz

Dallas,USA

Summary

Versatile and results-driven professional with a proven record of excellence across military, healthcare, technology, research, and the retail sectors. Brings together leadership honed as a U.S. Army air defense specialist, technical expertise as a medical chief engineer and logistics specialist, analytical skills as a senior research associate, and innovation from AI development experience. Adept at managing complex projects, optimizing operations, and leading diverse teams while fostering trust and collaboration. Skilled in problem-solving, cross-cultural communication, and delivering high-impact solutions in fast-paced, mission-critical environments.

Overview

31
31
years of professional experience

Work History

Artificial Intelligence Intern

Outlier AI
07.2024 - Current
  • As an AI intern I assisted in developing, testing, and refining artificial intelligence models and tools under the guidance of experienced engineers and researchers. I helped collect and preprocess data, run experiments, evaluate model performance, and document results. The role involved coding, troubleshooting, and contributing to research or product development, while learning industry-standard AI frameworks and best practices. My work supports innovation and improves AI solutions, all while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

Medical Logistics Specialist

VA Hospital-Saint Cloud, MN
01.2021 - 01.2024
  • As a medical logistics specialist at the St.Cloud VA hospital my responsibilities were managing the procurement, storage, and distribution of medical supplies, equipment, and pharmaceuticals to ensure veterans receive timely, high-quality care. I coordinated the inventory control, tracked usage, and maintain compliance with federal regulations and hospital policies. The role involved working closely with clinical staff to anticipate needs, troubleshoot shortages, and ensure critical materials were available as needed, while supporting the hospital’s mission to serve veterans efficiently and effectively.

Maintenance Chief Engineer

L&M Management
06.2010 - 09.2017
  • Overseeing the upkeep, repair, and preventive maintenance of multiple residential properties and facilities. Supervising maintenance staff and contractors, assigning work orders, and overseeing repairs for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, and general building systems. Implementing schedules to reduce breakdowns and extend equipment/building lifespan. Tracking expenses, managing maintenance budgets, and ordering supplies. Ensuring work meets building codes, OSHA standards, and property management policies. Responding to tenant maintenance requests and ensuring timely, high-quality service. Vendor Coordination: hiring, negotiating, and managing outside contractors when needed. Strong technical knowledge of building systems, leadership ability, problem-solving, and customer service skills.

ACT Team Member Peer Recovery Specialist

Amherst H. Wilder Foundation
01.2008 - 11.2010
  • As a peer recovery specialist my role was working with Southeast Asians providing culturally informed support to individuals recovering from substance use, mental health challenges, or other life struggles. Drawing on their own lived experience, building trust and rapport within the community, offering guidance on navigating treatment and social services, and advocate for culturally appropriate care. Often addressing language barriers, cultural stigma, and unique community needs, helping clients set goals, develop coping strategies, and reconnect with supportive networks. The role blended mentorship, advocacy, and cultural understanding to promote long-term recovery and wellness.

Senior Research Associate

Amherst H Wilder Foundation-Saint Paul, MN
10.2004 - 01.2008
  • As senior research associate I conducted in-depth research projects that supported the organization’s mission and programs. I participated in design studies, collected and analyzed data, and translated findings into actionable insights for advocacy, policy development, and community initiatives. The role often included supervising junior staff, managing project timelines, preparing reports or publications, and presenting results to stakeholders. I combined subject matter expertise with strong analytical, communication, and project management skills to advance the nonprofit’s goals and impact.

Retail Store Manager

Snyder's News and Books-Roseville, MN
04.1998 - 09.2004
  • Hiring, training, scheduling, and supervising employees. Monitoring sales targets, analyzing trends, and implementing strategies to increase revenue. Ensuring a positive shopping experience and resolving customer complaints effectively. Overseeing stock levels, ordering merchandise, and minimizing shrinkage. Maintaining a clean, organized, and visually appealing store layout. Managing budgets, processing payroll, handling reports, and ensuring compliance with company policies.

14 Sierra Allied Mobile Forces Land -AMF(L) NATO

US Army
01.1995 - 01.1998
  • Working with the US Army as a Combat Service Support member, I participated in training and operations congruent to mission demands while holding a Top Secret military clearance as part of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Quick Reaction Force.

Education

Certification - Peer recovery specialist

Amherst H Wilder Foundation-Saint Paul, MN
Saint Paul, MN

Some college - Marketing

University of Maryland Global Campus
01.1998

Skills

  • Training & development
  • Team management
  • Computer skills
  • Sales & Marketing
  • Machine learning
  • Computer networking
  • Software Troubleshooting
  • Microsoft Office
  • Data science
  • Technical Support
  • Fair Housing Regulations
  • Microsoft

Community Service

Nicaragua, Central America, 2018, 2021, Living abroad in Central America

Timeline

Artificial Intelligence Intern

Outlier AI
07.2024 - Current

Medical Logistics Specialist

VA Hospital-Saint Cloud, MN
01.2021 - 01.2024

Maintenance Chief Engineer

L&M Management
06.2010 - 09.2017

ACT Team Member Peer Recovery Specialist

Amherst H. Wilder Foundation
01.2008 - 11.2010

Senior Research Associate

Amherst H Wilder Foundation-Saint Paul, MN
10.2004 - 01.2008

Retail Store Manager

Snyder's News and Books-Roseville, MN
04.1998 - 09.2004

14 Sierra Allied Mobile Forces Land -AMF(L) NATO

US Army
01.1995 - 01.1998

Some college - Marketing

University of Maryland Global Campus

Certification - Peer recovery specialist

Amherst H Wilder Foundation-Saint Paul, MN