Born and Raised in the Midwest

I grew up in rural Indiana with my father, a professor of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University, and my mother, a librarian on the county library board. I could not have asked for a better start. Though I have lived all over the United States, and traveled to 15 different countries, in my heart, I remain a Midwestern guy with Midwestern values. My parents instilled in me a spirit of determination, cooperation, honesty, and they also taught me the importance of the Golden Rule. I value hard work and collaboration. 

I had the best of both worlds growing up amidst the cornfields of Indiana. We lived on a dirt road off another dirt road – in the shadow of Purdue University. This let me grow up with Midwestern values in a household that valued academics. I had great parents who taught me that if you act with integrity, work hard and take care of your neighbor; you can accomplish anything.

My father was a professor at Purdue, and I can think of no place I would rather attend university. I loved (and still love) learning. I was curious about everything, and so took what seemed like every class Purdue offered. I found it challenging to choose a path, and I thought, maybe, the answer was to get out of the cornfields. After graduating from Purdue with distinction, I headed to the University of New Mexico for my MBA. That was where I found my calling – or perhaps I should say, it is where my calling found me.

I was recruited right out of the University of New Mexico to Ford Motor Company’s Ford College Graduate Program. Acceptance into this program meant that Ford allowed me to travel and work in various departments, which was a perfect opportunity for a curious kid who liked to learn. I enjoyed everything I was able to put my hand to, but found a home when I rotated into the General Auditor’s Office - Financial and Treasury Division/ Global Audit and Control.

While my professional life is characterized by rigor, my personal time embraces fluidity. I am a passionate yoga instructor, integrating yoga as a vital aspect of both my professional and personal life. I had the honor of being a guest on the “Jammin’ with Jason Medford” podcast (#1 global podcast for Professional Internal Auditors and Risk Management Professionals), where I shared insights on how yoga can enhance auditing skills. Additionally, I implemented and taught a free weekly yoga class at Pima Community College as part of their Wellness Program and have led Sunday morning yoga sessions at the community pool for years. To unwind, I love exploring the stunning golf courses of Arizona and California. I also enjoy diving into a vigorous and challenging swim in the pool.

“How Yoga can Help You Become a Better Auditor with Kurt Weirich”.

I am a firm believer in the value of volunteering and have dedicated countless hours to this cause. Currently, I serve as a Governor for the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Orange County Chapter in Southern California. My previous roles include serving as the Certifications Officer (Vice President of Certifications) for the same chapter, as well as past president and treasurer for the IIA Tucson Chapter, where I also served on the board. Additionally, I am a founding board member of the Tucson chapter of ISACA, where I have held roles as Membership Director and on the board. Beyond these roles, I make myself available as a resource to local auditors and have organized numerous training opportunities for them.

I have also contributed to my community by serving on the board of directors for my homeowner’s association. As an automotive enthusiast, I share my passion for special automobiles as a Docent at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, California, which is renowned as the world’s best automotive museum.