Three-Part Career Accelerator Series Ignites Tech Careers at East Texas A&M University

East Texas A&M University's College of Business recently hosted a transformative Three-Part Career Accelerator Series at its Dallas location.

The series was designed to prepare graduate students in Business Analytics and Marketing Analytics for thriving careers in the competitive tech industry. Over three dynamic sessions, participants gained actionable advice and real-world insights from industry leaders, equipping them with the tools to excel in a rapidly evolving job market.

The series began with a focus on professionalism and preparation, highlighting essential skills for securing roles in tech. Speakers such as Jama Terry Ball, former Director of Operations at a Fortune 500 company, and Ron Leighton, Leader – Dallas Practice Interview Team Crew (PIT), shared invaluable strategies on mastering interview techniques and excelling in professional settings. Students explored critical topics such as crafting STAR responses for behavioral questions, delivering strong opening and closing statements in interviews and understanding how to assess company culture during the hiring process.

The second session shifted the spotlight to the power of networking and relationship building. Christopher Plumlee, Founder & President of Elevate Strategy Group, and Foster Williams, host of Jobseeker Radio, inspired students with techniques to elevate their personal brand and build lasting professional connections. This emphasis on strategic relationship-building resonated deeply, empowering students to approach their careers with renewed confidence.

In the final session, students put their skills into action during a high-energy networking event that included recruiters, alumni and a career panel discussing hiring expectations. The event drew over 100 participants and provided students with the opportunity to showcase their talents and expand their professional networks.

Reflecting on the experience, panelist and former data scientist Karan Gandhi shared, “This event highlighted the impressive talent and potential of ETAMU students. It was an honor to share my experiences and insights, and I commend the College of Business for creating such a meaningful platform. Events like these bridge the gap between ambition and expertise, empowering students to navigate today's fast-paced, competitive job market.”

Alumna Aathira Nair, who recently earned her Master's in Business Analytics from East Texas A&M University, praised the series for its practical impact. “The Career Accelerator Series offered actionable advice that highlighted key skills for today's competitive job market,” she noted. “Insights like Ron Leighton's strategies for delivering strong interview statements, Walt Glass's guidance on asking insightful questions to assess cultural fit and Foster Williams's personal branding techniques were truly transformative. The College of Business continues to provide students with opportunities to grow and succeed in their careers.”

Current graduate student Mahesh Sontakke echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the College's dedication to student success. “The Career Accelerator Series showcased the incredible opportunities the College of Business offers its students. The industry connections, mentorship, and hands-on guidance were invaluable. I feel more prepared than ever to enter the job market, confident in the support and resources ETAMU provides to help students succeed.”