WCBA Partners with regional employers to prepare students at Professional Development Summit

Strengthening the region’s workforce starts with connection. Last week, 28 employers and alumni joined Youngstown State University’s Williamson College of Business Administration for the Professional Development Summit, mentoring students and building the talent pipeline across Ohio.

The half-day summit brought together business leaders, alumni and faculty who led six sessions on career topics, including internships, leadership, professional portfolios and employer expectations. By engaging directly with students, employers play a key role in aligning academic preparation with workforce needs.

The event also provided companies with valuable visibility among the region’s next generation of business professionals. Through a networking luncheon, employers connected with motivated students preparing to launch their careers in the region and across Ohio.

“Events like the Professional Development Summit give employers the chance to shape the skills and readiness of future business professionals,” said Christina O’Connell, executive director of the WCBA Center for Career Management. “Students benefit from hearing directly from industry leaders, while employers are able to connect early with motivated candidates who want to make an impact.”

Christina Saenger, interim dean of the WCBA, added, “The Professional Development Summit reflects the WCBA’s commitment to developing career-ready talent in partnership with the business community. By engaging employers and alumni directly in the career preparation process, we are helping students understand what it takes to succeed while also supporting the organizations that drive growth in the region and across Ohio.”

The summit underscores WCBA’s commitment to strengthening the workforce. Alumni who return to participate demonstrate the value of a WCBA education while serving as role models and connectors for the next generation. Through resume coaching, interview preparation, and employer engagement on the Handshake platform, the WCBA Center for Career Management ensures students are equipped to contribute to their organizations and to the economy of the region and the state.