Resilience and Professional Growth: The Journey of AT&T's Matthew Deuschle

Matthew Deuschle's story is a testament to the power of determination and adaptability. Born and raised in Kansas City, his childhood in the countryside was marked by close family bonds and a unique upbringing.

Matthew shared a special bond with his middle brother, who is deaf. This relationship not only taught him sign language by the age of five but also instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and responsibility. “I ended up being kind of his ears throughout our childhood,” Matthew reflects. This role was never a burden but rather a unique part of his life that shaped his character and perspective.

His father, an engineer, involved Matthew in building their house, teaching him valuable skills and a strong work ethic. "My dad was like Superman to me. He could do anything," Matthew says. These early lessons in resilience and problem-solving would become pivotal in his career.

His upbringing also fostered a sense of curiosity and self-reliance. "I enjoyed being in nature, going on long hikes, and just being content by myself," he recalls. This natural curiosity and independence played a crucial role in shaping his professional path. Despite the challenges and responsibilities, Matthew embraced these experiences, which instilled in him a profound understanding of communication and empathy, shaping his future interactions both personally and professionally.

Early Influences and Family Values

Matthew's career path was not straightforward. After exploring various fields in college, including landscape architecture and marketing, he worked as a technician for a telephone company. "I did landscape architecture, grain science, marketing, and business. I was dabbling in everything," he says. This period of exploration helped him discover his true interests.

Following in his father's footsteps, Matthew eventually settled in as a technician for a telephone company and found himself climbing telephone poles and working in the field. However, his curiosity and drive for improvement led him to start automating reports and processes. "I started automating reports and processes and got recognized by my leadership," he recalls. His dedication and problem-solving skills led to rapid promotions and new opportunities. This initiative marked the beginning of his journey into data analysis and automation.

Embracing Data Science and Overcoming Challenges

Determined to advance his career further, Matthew decided to return to school while working, pursuing a master's degree in data science from Northwestern University. However, the journey was not without its difficulties. "I was a single dad, and it was a difficult time. But I stayed focused," he shares. "I remember thinking, what am I doing? This is insane."

The struggle of juggling work, studies, and personal life as a single dad, however, is where Matthew developed effective time management skills and learned to rely on exercise and meditation for well-being. "Exercise and meditation have always been my go-to. They help clear the mind and keep you focused," he says.

Leadership and Mentorship

Throughout his journey, Matthew has made it a point to mentor and encourage others. He often shares practical advice and personal experiences when individuals reach out to him seeking guidance. "I always make an effort to respond and talk with them," he says. He recalls the importance of offering a bit of encouragement and practical advice. "A lot of them are discouraged, not getting feedback, being ghosted. I try to offer some practical advice like improving LinkedIn profiles and resumes but also encourage them to stay persistent. Many times, people just need to hear that they're not alone and that persistence will pay off."

His experiences have taught him the importance of staying positive, being resourceful, and never giving up. "Stay focused on your goals and keep at it. Opportunities often come when you least expect them," he advises.

Practical Advice for Aspiring Professionals

Matthew emphasizes the importance of self-care and continuous learning. His practices of yoga, meditation, and regular exercise have been crucial in maintaining his well-being. "You've got to be able to calm your mind." he emphasizes.

For those looking to break into data science or any technical field, Matthew advises focusing on both technical skills and soft skills like communication and presentation. "You need to combine technical expertise with strong communication skills. It sets you apart," he says.

Matthew Deuschle's journey highlights the value of resilience, adaptability, and continuous growth. His story serves as a reminder that with determination and a focus on personal well-being, professional success is achievable. "Work on yourself, stay curious, and always be willing to grow and learn." he concludes.