Mark Carlson

A Career Built on Loyalty and Adaptability

Mark Carlson earned an Associate in Arts degree from Black Hawk College in 1981 before beginning a remarkable 36-year career in information technology.

He first joined Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC), remaining with the company through its mergers with Compaq and later Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Through every transition, Mark maintained the same badge number — a unique symbol of loyalty and dedication throughout his career. He retired from HP in 2017.

Following retirement, Mark continued applying his relationship-building and leadership skills in business development and project management roles with Blaze Restoration, Valley Construction, and LRS (Lakeshore Recycling Systems). After several attempts at retirement, he ultimately returned to Blaze Restoration as a project manager.

Leadership Through Community Service

Mark’s impact extends far beyond his professional career. Over the years, he has served in leadership roles with numerous civic and nonprofit organizations throughout the Quad Cities region.

He has been actively involved with Crime Stoppers of the Quad Cities since the early 1990s and currently serves as president, helping support public safety and community awareness initiatives. He also dedicated years of service to Rotary International through the Moline Rotary Club, including serving as past president during the 2023–24 year.

Mark’s volunteer efforts have included service with the Moline Breakfast Optimist Club, the Moline High School Boost Club, Moline Second Alarmers, the Moline Jaycees, and youth athletic organizations supporting football, baseball, softball, soccer, and little league programs. Whether mentoring young athletes, maintaining fields, or organizing community support efforts, Mark has consistently focused on helping others succeed.

Continuing to Serve the Community

Mark’s dedication to community leadership has earned broad recognition across the region. He served as a mentor for seven years with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, spent seven years as a Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce Ambassador, and was honored as the Chamber’s 2019 Volunteer of the Year. In 2021, he was recognized as a John Deere Classic Community Hero for his outstanding service and volunteerism.

In 2025, Mark’s commitment to education and community service came full circle when he was elected to the Black Hawk College Board of Trustees, continuing his lifelong connection to the college and its mission.