Area employers seek talent at USCA

During a STEM-focused career fair at USCA’s campus on Oct. 1, students met with employers from throughout the CSRA looking to hire USCA graduates and student interns.

“While we were set up at the job fair, we noticed that many students were prepared to speak up and say what they're looking for and what they want,” said Kevin Wade, president and chief executive officer of Intellisystems.

“Students were prepared to demonstrate their knowledge and skills when asked and could clearly communicate their desires and ambitions. Many knew what they wanted to do and how to get there. What was most encouraging was the desire to get more training and hands-on experience with internships and jobs for the junior students - not just those graduating soon.” 

The event aimed to introduce applied computer science, engineering, applied math, biology, environmental earth science and chemistry students with employers in those fields.

“All employers here are taking the time to connect with us.  They seem to want to help the future generation,” said Appa Modugu, a cybersecurity graduate student from Barnwell, SC, who earned his undergraduate degree in computer science at USCA as well.

The STEM Fair included 16 local employers, including Intellisystems.

“We appreciated the opportunity to participate in student-centered activities and help ensure the success of the students at USCA,” Wade said.  “We look forward to their bright futures ahead.”

Other employers who met with students during the STEM fair included Aurubis Richmond, BlueCross Blueshield of South Carolina, Columbia Vehicle Group, Generac, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Halocarbon, Hubbell, Jowers, Phinizy Center for Water Sciences, Renewable Water Resources (ReWa), Shaw, South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, SRMC, SRNS, Textron, Union Agener and Valmet.  

The USCA Career Services Office, which hosted the STEM Fair, helps students prepare for and line-up post-graduation employment.  Taking part in an internship is one step toward finding a student’s dream job.  

“That hands-on, real-world experience will be a huge game-changer for them in their careers” Wade said. “That is not always been something colleges and universities encourage or help students do, and it's great to see it at USCA.”

In addition to career fairs each semester, the Career Services Office offers myriad services and programs to help students become career ready.  Events include career panels, leadership opportunities and special college-to-career programs.

“USCA prepares us for what to expect in the professional world,” Modugu said.

For more information, contact USCA Marketing & Communication at news@usca.edu.