Nearly 100 employers connect with students and alumni at Mastodon Internship and Career Fair

Nearly 100 employers from across the region participated in Purdue University Fort Wayne's Mastodon Internship and Career Fair on Friday, Sept. 11, at Purdue University Fort Wayne's Lutheran Health Fieldhouse.

Hosted by PFW's Career Development Center, the event connected employers with students and alumni seeking internships, full-time positions, and opportunities to explore potential career paths. Students from Indiana University Fort Wayne were also invited to attend, reflecting the strong and dedicated partnership between the two institutions.

The significant participation by employers demonstrated the demand for the highly skilled and educated talent being developed at Purdue Fort Wayne. It also reinforced the university's important role in helping meet the workforce needs of Fort Wayne and northeast Indiana.

"Purdue Fort Wayne is committed to preparing students not only to earn a prestigious Purdue degree, but also to thrive in their careers and contribute meaningfully to their communities," said Ron Elsenbaumer, chancellor of Purdue University Fort Wayne. "The enthusiastic participation of nearly 100 employers sends a clear message: Organizations across our region recognize the value of a Purdue Fort Wayne education, and they want our students and graduates on their teams."

Employer representatives met with current students and alumni to discuss career opportunities, industry expectations, and the skills needed to succeed in today's workforce. These conversations allowed participants to build professional relationships, expand their networks, and identify meaningful next steps in their careers.

The event was open to all (I)PFW alumni, reinforcing the university's commitment to serving Mastodons throughout their professional lives. The inclusion of IU Fort Wayne students further demonstrated the institutions' shared commitment to student success and regional workforce development.

"The Mastodon Internship and Career Fair brings together talented students and employers who are ready to invest in the future of northeast Indiana," said Michelle Kuhlhorst, associate vice chancellor for enrollment management and executive director of the Career Development Center. "Our students arrive prepared, curious, and eager to contribute. By helping them form meaningful connections with nearly 100 employers, we are strengthening their career prospects while responding directly to the workforce needs of our region."

Through career preparation, hands-on learning, internships, and close relationships with industry partners, Purdue Fort Wayne helps students translate their education into professional success. These efforts support regional economic growth by creating a strong pipeline of talented professionals ready to contribute to local organizations and communities.

The Career Development Center works throughout the year to prepare students for what comes next through career advising, résumé and interview assistance, employer engagement, internship support, networking opportunities, and professional development programs. Its partnerships with regional employers help ensure these services remain closely aligned with changing workforce priorities.

The success of this year's fair underscores a powerful connection: Employers need skilled professionals, students and alumni are ready to succeed, and Purdue Fort Wayne is bringing them together.