CALS instructors are often looking for ways to introduce students to careers and employers in the fields of their interests. CALS Career Services has developed a partnership with several employers who demonstrate a commitment to help students in their career development process. Joining with those employers to develop site visits, career panels, classroom presentations and more can provide high-impact learning experiences for CALS students.

In spring 2024, CALS Career Services launched the Employer Partner Program. This initiative highlights companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment—engaging not only in recruitment, but in the entire arc of student development, from exploration of career options to launch of a chosen path. The program has welcomed a growing group of leading partners, including Brakebush, Eli Lilly, Exact Sciences, GEA, Hormel, Ibidi, Labcorp and Thermo Fisher in fields such as food, agriculture, biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.

Employer partners participate in high‑impact learning experiences that introduce students to real-world career possibilities. These include industry‑supported networking events (called Connectors), employer site visits, skills‑focused workshops and case competitions, shadow experiences, career panels, classroom presentations and student organization collaborations. Many of these interactions are enriched by CALS alumni, professionals who know firsthand the strength of a CALS education and are eager to guide future graduates.

CALS Career Services is excited to deepen collaboration with departments and units across the college. Instructors and units interested in exploring ways to work with Employer Partners, or Career Services’ larger industry portfolio in general, can fill out this interest form. The Career Services team has industry connections throughout all five of the college’s career interest areas and can help instructors find the right partner for their students.