They say success happens when preparation meets opportunity, and for more than 90 Penn State students, that opportunity came at the Pittsburgh Connect: Penn State Student Networking Summit over fall break. With résumés in hand and their best foot forward, students took advantage of a unique chance to connect with industry professionals and local employers. Thanks to this collaboration between Penn State Outreach, Career Services, campuses, and the alumni network, this event set the stage for building connections and taking steps toward their future success.
By the Numbers
- 90+ total Penn State students attended, including 7 alums
- 9 campuses and 13 colleges represented
- 22 employers and community orgs exhibited
Building a Professional Brand
The day kicked off at the Energy Innovation Center with workshops designed to help students create and manage their professional brand. Topics included making the most out of networking in person and online, effectively using LinkedIn, developing a personal elevator pitch, and identifying ways to use any degree to contribute to a sustainable future.
The sessions were led by Penn State leaders: Holly Stoltzfus (Coordinator of Alumni Career Services at Penn State), Dr. Justin Aglio (Associate Vice President for Penn State Outreach and Executive Director of the Readiness Institute at Penn State), Steph DeMaro (Manager, Business Development and Federal Government Sector at Penn State World Campus), and Grant Rowe (Public Programming Coordinator at Penn State Sustainability).
“The [workshop] was highly informative, and the speaker provided practical tips that I can apply immediately,” said one student attendee.
Students then gathered to hear from a panel of industry professionals on the Pittsburgh workforce and how to stand out to employers. They shared insights on the region’s emerging careers and the skills — including in-demand soft skills — needed to succeed.
The panel was moderated by Josiah Gilliam (Executive Director of PUMP), and panelists included Ellyse Williams (Talent Catalyst, E.M. Williams, LLC.), Eric McAllister (Manager of Inclusive Economic Growth at Allegheny Conference), Marie Pelloni (Director, Talent Attraction and STEM Development at Pittsburgh Tech Council), and Karma Edwards (Senior Director of Workforce Development and Green & Healthy Schools at Green Building Alliance).
“This region is great for keeping your options open,” said Williams.
Making Career Connections That Matter
The highlight of the day was a dynamic networking session that brought students and employers together in a career-fair setting. For students, it was a golden opportunity to explore job and internship possibilities with local companies, sparking meaningful conversations about their future paths. For employers, it was a chance to engage with driven students eager to launch their careers in the Pittsburgh region — students passionate about making an impact both on their own futures and on the city’s growth and success.
Employers included: Allegheny Intermediate Unit, Boys & Girls Clubs of Western PA, Brunner, Burson, Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Eat’n Park, First National Bank (FNB), Michael Baker International, Northwestern Mutual, Pittsburgh Penguins, Schneider Downs, Seubert & Associates, Inc., Sheetz, State Farm, and UPMC.
Students also had the opportunity to talk with several Penn State and Pittsburgh community organizations and resources, like Penn State Alumni Career Services, Penn State Behrend Graduate Programs, Penn State World Campus, Pittsburgh Technology Council, and Pittsburgh Young Professionals.
A Day of Opportunity
The event not only offered students the chance to meet local employers but also empowered them to envision a future right here in the region. With the right preparation and support, these students are equipped to make meaningful contributions to their own futures and the future of the region, showcasing Pittsburgh as a city where ambition meets opportunity.
I loved the opportunity to engage with professionals and peers in a welcoming environment. The workshops and panels offered actionable advice, and the networking session allowed me to make meaningful connections.
