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Alums Bring Industry AI, Hiring Insights to Campus

The workplace – and its use of AI – are changing daily. In a March event, titled “Industry Insights: Your Career in the Age of AI,” students from the School of Business and Technology had a chance to hear about real-world examples of how AI is used in the hiring process.

In a panel moderated by Christina Sims ’09, MBA ’11, an award-winning AI strategist, speaker, and founder of Precision Edge AI, James Yezek ’15, Director of People Operations for the Washington Commanders; Amanda Bernard ’12, MBA ’15, Director of Human Resources for Westmoreland County; and Michelle Wardle-Eggers, the senior analyst development manager for the ACA Group, answered questions about the current state of job searching.

They addressed questions including how to stand out when applying, what they look for in future employees, and how AI tools are being used in the field. The panelists also gave them an understanding of how best to use AI in their job search process (more as a tool for brainstorming than to replace their own thoughts), in addition to how those looking to hire are using AI (most resumes are reviewed in 30 seconds or less!).

“The idea to host an event about what it’s like behind the hiring desk and what employers really want came from students raising their concerns about the process of applying for a job at this very challenging time,” said Anastasiia Adamova, Coordinator of Outreach and Innovation for the School of Business and Technology, who worked with the panelists to put together the event. “The event was aimed at bridging the gap between academic preparation and industry expectations by connecting Seton Hill University students and faculty with local HR professionals who can provide real-world insights into how AI is reshaping careers, hiring practices, and workplace skills.”

After the panel, student participants had a chance to meet one-on-one with the four panelists to ask any questions they had and share their resumes and/or portfolios for review. The career-focused “speed dating” event coordinated by the Career and Professional Development Center allowed students to spend a short yet dedicated amount of time discussing their specific situation with each professional.

“I thought it was really helpful that we got to talk one-on-one with people who are in their professional careers,” said senior Corrine Eisner. “We got to ask them questions about how we can elevate our careers and what we need to be doing right now as seniors that are about to graduate.”

Faculty from the School of Business and Technology also had an opportunity to network with the panelists and learn more about current industry trends and conditions during a lunch event.

“The event was a great opportunity for students to hear about AI and about what employers are looking for,” said Chris Mintus, an instructor in the School of Business and Technology. “I hope our students take advantage of what they were able to learn from these professionals as they prepare to graduate and move on with their careers.”