When: November 25, 2024, 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Where: Energy Innovation Center, 1435 Bedford Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15219 (Google Map)

Register Now

Penn State students and alumni are invited each November to join us for Pittsburgh Connect: Penn State Student Networking Summit. This intimate gathering, held over fall break, is designed exclusively for students in the area who are eager to explore career opportunities and connections in the vibrant Pittsburgh job market. Connect with employers, participate in engaging workshops, discover exciting career paths, and expand your professional network. Whether you’re seeking internships, mentorships, or future career prospects, this event provides a unique platform to engage with Pittsburgh’s diverse and thriving workforce. Don’t miss this opportunity to kickstart your professional journey in the Steel City.

Student Tips for Success

  • Dress professionally.
  • Bring a copy of your résumé or portfolio to share with employers.
  • Get your LinkedIn page up to date!
  • Research some employers before the event.
  • Check in with your Campus Career Services for résumé reviews and networking tips.

This event is FREE and open to all Penn State students, regardless of campus, year, or major! It will showcase several local and national employers and feature workshops and panels with industry leaders, representatives from Penn State Career Services, and several Penn State alumni. Light refreshments will be provided. 

Agenda

Time Activity
11:00–11:30 a.m. Student check-in
11:30 a.m.–noon Student workshops (currently full)
lunch provided to workshop attendees
12:10–1:00 p.m. Industry panel
1:00–3:00 p.m. Networking session with local and national employers

Student Workshops (currently full)

Building a Professional Network Led by Holly Stoltzfus, Coordinator of Alumni Career Services at Penn State

  • Techniques for effective networking, both in-person and online
  • How to build and maintain professional relationships (including making meaningful connections at career fairs) 

Mastering the Art of the Elevator Pitch   Led by Dr. Justin Aglio, Associate Vice President for Penn State Outreach and Executive Director of the Readiness Institute at Penn State

  • Crafting and delivering a compelling elevator pitch that leaves a lasting impression
  • How to quickly and effectively communicate value to potential employers or connections during brief interactions

Crafting Your Professional IdentityLed by Steph DeMaro, Manager, Business Development and Federal Government Sector at Penn State World Campus

  • Developing a personal brand that reflects your skills, values, and career goals
  • How to present yourself authentically and professionally in various settings, from social media profiles (like LinkedIn) to in-person interactions

Sustainability for All: Turning Any Degree into a Purpose-Driven Career
Led by Grant Rowe, Public Programming Coordinator at Penn State Sustainability 

  • Explore how any degree or field of study can align with sustainability goals and how your unique skills can contribute to a sustainable future
  • Learn about careers in sustainability across diverse industries, linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Panel

Unlocking Pittsburgh’s Workforce: What Employers Want and How You Can Stand OutModerator: Josiah Gilliam (Executive Director at PUMP)
Panelists: 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).

Discover what top employers in Pittsburgh are looking for in their next hires. This panel brings together industry leaders, innovators, and alumni to share insights on the region’s growth, emerging career paths, and the skills in high demand. Learn how to position yourself as a strong candidate, from mastering essential soft and technical skills to understanding what makes you stand out in a competitive job market. Gain practical advice and strategies to navigate your career journey and succeed in Pittsburgh’s thriving industries. 

Meet the Employers

  • Pittsburgh Penguins
  • Seubert & Associates, Inc.
  • Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh
  • UPMC
  • Schneider Downs
  • Allegheny Intermediate Unit
  • Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
  • DICK’S Sporting Goods
  • State Farm
  • Lifetime Financial Growth
  • First National Bank (FNB)
  • Sheetz
  • Michael Baker International
  • Northwestern Mutual
  • Burson
  • Brunner
  • The Motherhood
  • City of Pittsburgh
  • Boys & Girls Clubs of Western PA
  • Eat’n Park
  • and more to come!

Employers: if you’d like to participate in this event, please contact Sarah Krupp (Western Region Employer Engagement Specialist) at seg143@psu.edu

Registration

Please register by November 18. Email psu-pittsburgh@psu.edu with any questions.

Registration for this event is now closed. Walk-ins are welcome for the Networking Sessions (1:00–3:00 p.m.).