Woman-Owned · Native American · Trusted Partner
Rooted in integrity. Driven by experience. Empowering organizations with strategic human resources solutions built on 15 years of corporate expertise.

15+
Years of Corporate HR Leadership
Our Story
Desert Peak HR Consulting LLC was founded with a singular vision: to bring authentic, people-first human resources expertise to organizations of all sizes. As a proud woman-owned, Native American business, I carry forward the values of community, respect, and stewardship in everything I do.
With a Master's degree in Human Resources from Pennsylvania State University and 15 years of hands-on corporate HR experience, I bring a rare blend of academic rigor and practical wisdom to every client engagement.
Every recommendation is grounded in honesty, transparency, and a deep respect for the people and communities I serve.
I believe that organizations thrive when their people are valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work.
With 15 years of corporate HR leadership, I bring battle-tested strategies and real-world solutions to every engagement.
The Founder's Journey
Desert Peak HR Consulting was not built overnight. It was built through fifteen years of hard work, profound loss, and the courage to start over.
My career began in an entry-level role at a coal mine. Through determination and a commitment to growth, I worked my way up — earning a Master's degree in Human Resources from Pennsylvania State University. Over 15 years in demanding corporate environments, I built deep expertise in employee relations, compensation, compliance, collective bargaining, leadership development, and workforce transitions.
In December 2020, I lost both of my parents just six days apart. My mother on December 24th. My father on December 30th. Grief has a way of stripping everything back to what matters. Their passing forced me to look at my life with fresh eyes — to ask not just what I was doing, but why. I realized how fragile time is, and how important it is to build something meaningful, not just for income, but for purpose.
After more than 15 years in corporate America, I was laid off for the second time. At first, fear took over. But looking back, it was the push I needed. I stepped into the financial services industry and discovered the world of entrepreneurship — relationships, personal development, financial literacy, and the freedom to create. While I grew in that space, one thing never left my heart: Human Resources.
Every chapter of my life — the early grind, the grief, the layoffs, the reinvention — led me here. Desert Peak HR Consulting was founded to bring real-world, experience-backed HR support to businesses that need it most. I've sat on both sides of the table. I know what layoffs feel like as an employee. I understand the weight of difficult decisions as an HR leader. My mission is simple: to help organizations build stronger workplaces, navigate workforce challenges, and create people-first cultures that drive lasting success.
"While my path has not been easy, every chapter — from losing my parents, to layoffs, to entrepreneurship — has led me here. To helping others build stronger businesses and stronger futures."
Chereen Lopez · Founder, Desert Peak HR Consulting LLC
What We Offer
From compliance to culture, we provide the full spectrum of human resources services your organization needs to thrive.
Strategic recruitment solutions and seamless onboarding programs designed to attract, hire, and retain top talent.
Comprehensive policy development and compliance audits ensuring your organization meets all federal, state, and local regulations.
Custom performance frameworks, review processes, and coaching strategies that align individual growth with organizational goals.
Tailored learning programs including leadership development, DEI initiatives, harassment prevention, and team-building workshops.
Skilled support in conflict resolution, workplace investigations, disciplinary processes, collective bargaining, and fostering a culture where employees feel heard and respected.
End-to-end HR strategy development for startups, growing businesses, and organizations navigating change or restructuring.
Qualifications
My commitment to excellence is backed by rigorous education, real-world experience, and a deep personal commitment to making workplaces better for everyone.
Pennsylvania State University
Advanced expertise in organizational behavior, labor relations, and strategic HR management.
Proven Track Record
Extensive experience across talent management, compliance, employee relations, and organizational development.
Certified Diverse Supplier
Proudly representing Native American heritage and women in business, bringing diverse perspectives to every engagement.


15+
Years Experience
MS
Penn State HR
Get In Touch
Whether you need a full HR overhaul or guidance on a specific challenge, I'm here to help. Schedule a free consultation and discover how Desert Peak HR can transform your organization.
clopez@desertpeakhr.com
Phone
505-787-2920
Location
Serving clients nationwide