Penn College students in high demand at job fair

Elizabeth Lorenz, senior human resources manager at Hardinge, echoed that sentiment. “We have at least 10 Penn College graduates working for us at our Elmira (New York) facility, including three recent graduates,” she said. “Their manufacturing majors really align well with what we do. We love the hands-on component that Penn College has.”

According to Shelley L. Moore, senior director of Penn College’s Career Design Center, students in the following academic clusters were most in-demand at the Career Fair: automated manufacturing and machining, electrical, building automation engineering, welding and metal fabrication, and diesel, heavy equipment and power generation.

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“But the Career Fair was an energetic opportunity for all of our future creators, no matter their specialty,” Moore said.

Students like Nalee A. Rodriguez and Edwin A. Pena, both from Lebanon, and Cameron S. Musser, from Gilbertsville. All three were looking for internships.

“I’m looking to meet people in the industry who can help me navigate my way,” said Pena, who specializes in nondestructive testing. “This is a great opportunity to see what’s out there.”

“Connections are key,” agreed Musser, who is studying engineering design technology. “Without connections, you can’t get anywhere in this world. Getting your foot in the door and meeting people in the industry will help you figure out what fits you best. Hopefully, I’ll find an internship today to put the connections in motion.”

Rodriguez, a pre-radiography major, called her second Career Fair “a good experience and a good resource.” She also praised the university’s Career Design Center for helping her prepare for the event.

“I went there to have my resume reviewed and also got my clothes,” she said.

The center’s Career Gear Closet offers professional attire to students at no cost.

“I bought my blazer there,” Musser said. “The Career Design Center also helped me create my resume and get listed on LinkedIn.”