Tech Expo helps students take next step
Representatives from some of the best companies in the nation were at USU Thursday to entice students to take the next step from student to employee at the Tech Expo. The event was hosted by Career Services.
Andrew Felix, junior in mechanical engineering, said he found many companies that interested him while looking for internship and career opportunities.
“I had a lot of insight, learning what’s available. I’m just looking for any internship opportunities,” Felix said.
The 95 companies in attendance had different motivations for being at the Tech Expo.
“We have a lot of different companies here, a lot from out of state,” said Donna Crow, director of Career Services. “Some are here checking the quality of the students, which keeps them coming back. Others are here to scope for the future, looking for internships and positions that are available now.”
Many companies had broad potential for students with many positions open to them, while others were a bit more specific.
“Our singular focus for being here today is to find a Flash developer,” said Sabrena Suite-Magnum of SkyWest.
Many companies were seeking out potential interns, specifically in the math and science fields.
“We have gained employees, interns and intern-turned-employees from the Tech Expo. We have a lot of positions for friendly, motivated, outgoing and hardworking individuals,” said Greg Howell of Westech.
Although the Tech Expo did offer the majority of positions to math and science majors, the companies at Thursday’s expo also offered various positions to writers, graphic and Web designers, and many other positions at well-represented companies, Crow said.
Usana, a multilevel marketing company based in Salt Lake City, was ranked fifth best small company to work for by Forbes magazine.
“We have a lot of opportunity in our company. We are looking for integrity, strength, skills and knowledge in our employees. Utah State puts out very good students. As we grow we want the best of the new,” the Usana representative said.
Most companies at the expo were looking for quality and said they would offer the same in return.
“Our greatest perk is our travel benefits. We can give you the world figuratively and literally,” Suite-Magnum said.
Many of the students in attendance at the Tech Expo said that they felt that it was beneficial to attend. Crow said they expected to see somewhere between 600 and 700 students at the Expo, particularly because of the convenience that it offers.
“It gives students an opportunity,” Crow said. “It’s one stop, one place to see and compare these different companies, rather than having to go out and research them.”
Students who missed the Tech Expo will have another opportunity at the Career Fair in March to meet with more companies that appeal to a larger variety of majors. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Career Fair will be held March 4 and is expected to be the biggest Career Fair at USU thus far.
–beck.turner@aggiemail.usu.edu