EXPLORE
PURDUE POLYTECHNIC

The hands-on experience working with turbine engines, airframes and electrical systems has helped me gain a great understanding of many aspects of aviation and gas/power systems. Professor Barnes and Dr. Davis have been hugely supportive and influential in helping me learn and achieve my goals."

My program provided me with a holistic view of the industry, not only strengthening my technical skill, but also paying attention to non-technical aspects such as policy and regulation."

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."

Through Purdue’s HRD program, I gained hands-on skills in interviewing, HR laws, and applying HR concepts in real-world settings. Most importantly, the program built a strong foundation in understanding people, performance, and organizational growth that I use throughout my career."

Purdue Polytechnic’s hands-on learning and emphasis on collaboration helped me build the skills I need for consulting. The cybersecurity labs, combined with courses like Cyber Law and Ethics and Incident Response Management, have given me both the technical and communications skills to identify risks and help clients improve their security posture. My favorite experience was learning social engineering tactics in Professor Ringenberg’s class, which gave me a real-world perspective on cybersecurity."

My hands-on curriculum and networking opportunities were incredible. In one of my 300-level courses, I was even able to work with South Korean abroad students. I am more than prepared to work in a culturally diverse team environment."

Purdue Polytechnic provided me with the determination and technical knowledge that helped me impress my employer. My professors believed in me, and I have been able to serve in groups such as the board of Women in Cybersecurity at Purdue in addition to becoming a published researcher."

Purdue Polytechnic provided me with hands-on project experience that helped me secure internships and ultimately made me more qualified for my role. The Engineering Technology capstone gave me the skills to plan, budget and execute projects effectively, preparing me for the fast-paced work environment at WSP."

Purdue Polytechnic provided me with the experience I needed to succeed, and inspired me to pursue unorthodox opportunities. Harley Barta, my department’s student success coordinator, has been especially important to me. She is a mentor, a challenger, an advocate and a lifelong friend."

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."

Interacting with other students in group activities helped simulate real teamwork situations you may face at work. My instructors did a great job relating lessons to real work experiences; I gained the knowledge as well as the confidence needed to be successful in my career."

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."

Purdue’s emphasis on technology-driven leadership and adaptability helped me develop a forward-thinking approach, making me uniquely qualified for my new role. The combination of technical knowledge, leadership principles and practical application set me apart and positioned me for success."

Purdue’s HR program prepared me for success—faculty support led to a Fortune 500 internship and my first full-time role, while the curriculum helped me pass my certification exam. Courses like Compensation and Employment Law built skills I use daily as a People Partner."

The Purdue name helped me extend my reach when applying to jobs. Companies recognize Purdue as a leader in education, producing skilled individuals. Through hands-on learning and industry professional access, I knew these experiences would set me apart and make me uniquely qualified for my new job."

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."

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 made me industry-ready from day one. From user research to UI design, every course gave me practical skills that translated directly to real-world product development—especially on projects like my senior Capstone, where I designed a portable DJing feature for Spotify."

My professors, advisors and administrative staff were there to help me with any questions I had. They always made me feel welcome and even helped me navigate the world of interviews and job offers! "