student talking with recruiter at Engineering Expo

Career Development

As part of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, you will be guided by faculty and staff determined to not only help you earn your degree but also to provide the resources you need to successfully launch your career. With opportunities such as the Senior Engineering Design Conference, Engineering Expo, research projects with faculty and internships or co-ops, you can have the experiences to develop your professional skills.

Get the professional career coaching you need right on campus. You’ll get prepared for landing a job or internship through

  • Career coaching
  • Resume critiques
  • Cover letter writing
  • Practice interviewing
  • Internship and job searches
  • Networking advice
  • Handshake navigation

Connect online

Launch your career by using Handshake and LinkedIn. Handshake accounts are automatically created for all WMU students to help promote career events and allow students to learn from peers about their personal experiences in different companies. Also, be sure to connect with College of Engineering and Applied Sciences on LinkedIn to expand your network with those in your major and field. 

students at Engineering Expo

Engineering Expo

The Engineering Expo is one of the best opportunities the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences provides you to practice your interviewing and professional development skills. At the Engineering Expo you will meet over 100 employers seeking to recruit and connect with WMU students for co-op, internship, and full-time positions. This event takes place once a semester and is open to all engineering and applied sciences students.
student organization members at passport day

Registered student organizations

Western Michigan University's College of Engineering and Applied Sciences has more than 20 student organizations, and many are affiliated with professional societies. These groups provide opportunities for you to meet with professionals in your field, develop your teamwork and leadership skills, and network with other students who have interests similar to yours.
student smiling writing in notebook

Café Critique

Café Critique helps you enhance your resume and cover letter, gain interview skills, refine your job search strategies, prepare for career fairs, and more. This service is located outside the Parkview Café in Floyd Hall on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from noon to 3 p.m. You can attend a 20-minute drop in session or schedule a one-hour appointment through Handshake by clicking the link below.

Research

student working on construction of Western’s new student center
At Western we offer many research opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students you won't find elsewhere. Through research, the faculty and staff of Western Michigan University's College of Engineering and Applied Sciences are committed to advancing knowledge and supporting the WMU gold standard of being a discovery-driven institution.

Senior Engineering Design Conference

Serving as the culminating capstone of your time at the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, the Senior Engineering Design Conference is one of the best ways students gain real world experience. In your final year at Western, you will collaborate with peers, faculty and industry professionals to take part in designing, creating and presenting an engineering project. View some of the many innovative projects our students have worked on in recent years.

students presenting at senior engineering design conference

Mentoring

When you enroll in the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, you will have access to a vast support system that includes mentoring so that you are ready to make an impact in your academic pursuits and professional careers. Check out the options available for you.

Professional Skills Program—Hone your professional communication, teamwork, leadership and conflict resolution skills to better prepare for success in the workplace. Learn more about the Professional Skills Program.

Alumni Resource Network—When you are ready to look for a professional position, college alumni are at the ready to answer questions and provide advice. Gain access to the Alumni Resource Network.

Inspiring Conversations—Discussions led by thought leaders, changemakers and industry professionals for thinking more deeply about advancing our world’s greatest challenges from an engineering perspective. View the schedule.

Custer Speaker Series—Hear from professionals on topics that will broaden your understanding of the world and add depth to your experiences. View the speaker schedule.

student walking with mentor

Expanding your education

The College of Engineering and Applied Sciences also offers various ways to continue your education with accelerated masters, masters or Ph.D. programs. Whether you are seeking a promotion, exploring new topics or pursuing more research options, our graduate program will help you achieve your next step. Explore civil and construction engineering graduate programs today.
Ph.D. student receiving their diploma

Career outcomes

Western grads are ready to accept a job or enroll in a graduate program shortly after graduation. If you take a closer look below, not only will you see where WMU graduates landed, but you’ll also see why choosing Western was the best career choice they could have made.

Alumni success

Paul Pagano headshot

Paul Pagano, B.S.E ‘10

Project Superintendent Walbridge
Robert Michael Krueger headshot

Robert Michael Krueger, B.S.E.’90

Vice President – Operations Fessler & Bowman
Amber Thomas headshot

Amber Thomas, B.S.’05, P.E.

Director of Public Works and Village Engineer Village of Grafton, Wisconsin