Industry Ready, Day One
The Persistent Pursuit of the Next Giant Leap
Purdue Polytechnic is Purdue’s college of technology, connecting students, innovative learning, real-world experiences, and industry partnerships to prepare graduates for technology-driven careers.
Upcoming
Events
September 24, 2025
Purdue Polytechnic Columbus, 4444 Kelly Street, Columbus, IN 47203
I was asked during the interview about my hands-on experience, which set me apart from engineering majors. I explained how I had done labs that were hands-on, learning milling and other operations that I will do at my new job. Dr. Gaurav Nanda helped me a lot as a professor—he always answered my questions and made me feel comfortable asking anything."
In my interviews, it was so easy to think of examples where I had not only learned about a topic, but had implemented a complex project with a diverse group of students that highlighted the skill-sets companies were looking for alongside my project management abilities. I wouldn’t trade the past four years for anything in the world."
My favorite professor was Dawn Laux. As a young woman in a technology field, it felt amazing to have a female professor who helped me further understand the world of technology."
Purdue’s hands-on experience with large category aircraft, paired with the opportunity to work on the same aircraft used in the industry, uniquely prepared me for my future career. Professors like Dr. Ropp and Professor Barnes emphasized the importance of passion and precision, which has shaped my work ethic. My study abroad in Paris remains one of my most cherished experiences, sparking my love for culture and travel."
Purdue Polytechnic provided me with hands-on experience and diverse knowledge of other concentrations like electrical, materials, and automation engineering. Being well-rounded and knowing how to apply my knowledge greatly helped me become qualified for my job."
With every Polytechnic class, I had a group project where we had to do some form of hands-on work. This helped me develop hands-on skills as well as the ability to work with others from many different backgrounds, and my internships gave me real industry experience that helped me get the job I wanted."
Purdue Polytechnic provided me with invaluable opportunities to explore leadership roles where I could effectively contribute to achieving organizational goals, empower my team to reach their full potential, and gain essential hands-on experience realistic industry settings, preparing me for a career in IT."
UX degrees from Purdue give their students the necessary skills to be a well-rounded leader and peer by the time they walk across the graduation stage. UX is also very close-knit, meaning we have smaller class sizes, and I really enjoyed that because I got to know the people and professors in my classes. I got to see what other people were interested in and saw all that I could do with a UX degree."
Purdue Polytechnic allowed me to pursue my education at an accelerated pace while working full-time in the industry. I would also like to thank my parents and husband for their continuous support, and for challenging me to go outside my comfort zone as an engineer."
A huge part of the Purdue Polytechnic is the heavy emphasis of practical knowledge and giving students the opportunities to apply what they have learned in real world situations. Through Purdue, I was able to acquire an internship in games/simulation that set me up for success my senior year!"
Purdue Polytechnic Columbus gave me hands-on experience in areas like server environments, cybersecurity and database implementation. The support from professors like Melissa Casner and Dewey Swanson helped build my confidence and skills, especially as someone starting with less experience. Their encouragement pushed me to lead, collaborate and find my voice in IT."
Purdue Polytechnic provided me with numerous opportunities to hone my technical skills, from web development to video editing. My experiences in class and as an editor for the K-Pop club on campus (VariAsian) prepared me for my role. Professors like Esteban Garcia were also incredibly supportive, helping me balance my academic and personal responsibilities."
Purdue Polytechnic has many student organizations that helped me grow personally and professionally throughout all four years here, like Polytechnic student ambassadors, Women in Technology, Boiler Gold Rush, Minority Technology Association, BoilerMentor, and more."
Purdue Polytechnic fostered a learn-by-doing approach which gave me the tools I needed to find my start within the aviation industry. I had the opportunity to lead one of the largest entirely student-driven events on campus, Purdue Aviation Day, in 2022 and 2023. This event taught me the value of teamwork, leadership and innovation. For that, I am ever grateful."
Intro to controls system and manufacturing system integration gave me my intro to controls systems and helped prepare to lead in the industry."
The Polytechnic provided me with so many opportunities to dive into the real-life applications of the theory we discussed in lectures. These experiences led to internships, and the internships led to job opportunities!"
By having such a hands-on experience, I was able to show what I learned and how I could apply it in my job. The countless projects, team experiences, and the well-rounded education I had helped to showcase how qualified I am for the job."
Purdue Polytechnic’s hands-on labs and exposure to real project workflows gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in marine construction. Experiences like my Ireland study abroad with Professor Jenkins helped broaden my perspective on global construction practices."
Internship and study abroad opportunities, hands-on lab experiences, independent and team projects, leadership events, mentorship opportunities with Women in Technology and the School of Engineering Technology – all of these opportunities have made me feel like a well-rounded candidate for my upcoming job."
I feel that the School of Aviation and Transportation technology equipped me with the knowledge to succeed in my job. Special thanks are also due to the Aviation Technology Student Council—joining them as a freshman gave me the opportunity to become a leader in my own way."