Professional Development Conference 2015

Check-In:

Time: 9:00AM – 9:30AM

Location: Engineering Atrium

Check-in early to get good seats. Upon arrival delegates receive name tags and refreshments.

 

Opening Remarks:

Time: 9:30AM – 10:00AM

Location: Engineering Atrium

Introduction to the event and what delegates should expect for the day. A brief overview of the events for the conference and some details about the speakers will be given. 

 

Keynote Speaker Dr. Tej Gidda:

Time: 10:00AM – 11:00AM

Location: Engineering Atrium

Tej Gidda, a Principal with Conestoga Rovers and Associates, will deliver a talk on the skills he has used in achieving his success. This portion of the event is meant to help delegates reflect on their motivational and leadership skills and how they can develop them.

 

The Edge Workshop Sessions:

Time: 11:00AM – 12:00PM

Locations: Rooms 1435, 1427, 1425, 1365, 1307, 1002, and 1126

Delegates will separate into 7 smaller groups and attend a cover letter review session speicifc to their interest. The groups will move to one of the smaller booked rooms in Thornbrough for this session where a past co-op employer or alumni will act as a facilitator and coach. The workshop facilitator will give students industry specific tips for job hunting, resume and cover letter writing.

 

Lunch:

Time: 12:00PM – 1:00PM

Location: Engineering Atrium

Lunch will be served in the Engineering Atrium and will allow for students to discuss the sessions and speaker amongst themselves.

 

Networking Speaker Brett Cavanagh:

Time: 1:00PM – 2:00PM

Location: Engineering Atrium

The Networking Speaker, Brett Cavanagh, is a senior recruiting officer with extensive experience in networking and strategic hiring. This speaker will coach students on how to work a conference or career fair to get the most out of it, helping students secure meaningful contacts and resources. Some time at the end of this section will be allocated to a question and answer period, where students can ask any questions they may have about networking and career fairs. 

 

Coffee Break:

Time: 2:00PM – 2:15PM

Location: Engineering Atrium

This time will allow for delegates to get some refreshments and coffee and ensure that delegates remain attentive for the next section.

 

Leaders of Today Panel Discussion:

Time: 2:15PM – 3:45PM

Location: Engineering Atrium

The panel will consist of four successful engineers, most of which will be Alumni of the School of Engineering. This session will focus on the tools they've used to achieve their goals. Students will be encouraged to ask questions throughout the panel discussion.