Bronco Spotlight: Emily Schulte
Bachelor of Science in pulp and paper engineering, 2020
R&E Process Engineer at Kimberly Clark
My job within Kimberly Clark is to work on optimizing and innovating the consumer products brands that you know and love, like Kleenex, Cottonelle, and Viva. I spend my days determining process improvements and working with cross-functional teams to bring the consumer the best product, current and new. This involves work in both an office setting as well as a plant/mill, which provides a great work-life balance for me!
If you had a campus job or internship, how did they impact your career development?
I was fortunate enough to be a part of the paper engineering program, where there were many internship and co-op opportunities. During my time at WMU, I worked one fall-summer term with Kimberly Clark, and two summer internships with other companies, which were key in the development of my professional and technical skills. They certainly helped set me above the rest when it came to securing a job, and the networking opportunities I had during my experiences were invaluable.
What advice do you have for others pursuing a career similar to yours?
Attend the Engineering Expo, and do not be afraid to talk to different companies and meet new people. It’s certainly overwhelming at first, but it becomes second nature with practice. Make sure to be yourself and ask questions – employers love candidates who are engaged. And finally, if you are offered an internship opportunity, take it. Whether you end up loving it or not, it'll be awesome experience in the end!