Class of 06 Chuck Petersen: Finding His Skol Purpose

Finding His Skol Purpose

Just three years after jumping into corporate world employment, Chuck Petersen ’06 called an audible. He left his position to gain a master’s degree in sport administration and since then it’s been a whole new ball game for the former Simpson soccer player.

Petersen began his new career by landing a training camp internship with the Minnesota Vikings — the first of many internships over a six-year span. His journey included stints with the Omaha Nighthawks, Carolina Panthers, Omaha Beef, USA Football, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Iowa Western Community College football.

Petersen’s persistence paid off with a full-circle moment — getting the call from the Minnesota Vikings to intern again in 2013, before securing a full-time spot on the employment roster two years later as operations coordinator. He’s been with the Vikings ever since, serving today as senior manager of team operations.

First Class Operation

“We support our players, coaches and football staff so they can focus their attention solely on football,” said Petersen. “Most recently, we’ve been part of free agency and building our roster for the 2025 season. Our department coordinates every aspect of player visits when we agree to terms. It sets the foundation and expectation of how we operate as an organization — first class, professional and team-first culture.”

The results speak for themselves. The Vikings organization has ranked #1 and #2 the last two years, according to NFL Players Association surveys.

“That’s a direct reflection on our organization’s performance from their [the players’] perspective,’ said Petersen. “Team Operations is a lot of behind the scenes work that doesn’t get much recognition. Going into my 12^th season with the Vikings, I take pride in being able to contribute more every year.”

Petersen credits Simpson for pushing him to grow in areas outside of his comfort zone, which prepared him with the agility to adapt and thrive in his career. And he plans to keep reaching to meet higher expectations.

“I want to continue to grow and perfect my craft. The ultimate goal is to help this team win a Super Bowl.” To that, Vikings fans respond with a hearty “SKOL!”