Brian Henderson shares employment and networking opportunities with engineering students
Q. How do you help connect employers with engineering students?
A. We host professional development and networking events throughout the year. We conduct events on campus that allow students and employers to meet one another and we also conduct company tours where we will bring students to local companies to tour their facility and meet their staff.
Q. What is the benefit of hiring an engineering student for a co-op or internship?
A. It’s like test diving a car! The company can test a student’s skills and abilities for a short term and then decide if that student is a good fit with the company before offering them a full-time position.
Q. What’s your best “insider tip” for businesses looking for engineers?
A. Be visible and establish a brand on campus. Students become more interested in your company by the reputation you hold on campus. Some great first steps for employers to build their brand is by attending the STEM fair, speaking to clubs and organizations, and becoming active in the College of Engineering professional development activities.
Q. What is your favorite thing about your job?
A. Meeting new employers and connecting them with our students, which will hopefully lead to job opportunities. I love it when students thank me for helping them get an interview, co-op, internship, or full-time job. There is nothing more rewarding for me than receiving a high-five or handshake from a student who landed an interview or job.
Q. What is the best way to contact you?
A. By email: bwhender@uark.edu or phone: 479-575-6265.