Building Bridges: Creating Career Connections

Presenter:

• Jessie Yung
  Testing Services Department Coordinator

Workshop Description:
The way we communicate with friends isn’t always the same way we should communicate in professional settings. This interactive workshop helps participants recognize the importance of professional communication in face-to-face, email, and phone situations within the employment setting. Attendees will practice improving tone, clarity, and professionalism in real-world scenarios. Please bring your cell phone and be prepared to log into your personal email.

Presenters:

• Dr. Alyson Gaspar
  Career and Technical Education Services Manager
• Andrea Montgomery
  Assistant Professor of Fire Science Technology and Emergency Medical Technician

Workshop Description:
Communication, organization, time management, and critical thinking are not just "soft skills"—they are Essential Skills! Mastering these skills will have a big impact on your GPA and your future paycheck. Join this workshop to learn ways to improve your academic performance, develop professional habits, and become the candidate employers are seeking.

Presenter:

• Elizabeth Groenewold
  Academic and Career Advisor

Workshop Description:
Some careers require a bachelor’s degree or higher—and planning your transfer early can make all the difference. This workshop helps participants understand transfer pathways, including how to select courses, align programs of study, and prepare for a smooth transition to a four-year university. Attendees will learn practical strategies for academic planning, credit transfer, and long-term career goal alignment.

Presenter:

• Miranda Rodriguez
  Small Business Development Center Coordinator

Workshop Description:
Your personal brand is how employers, clients, and colleagues perceive you—online and in person. Presented by the Small Business Development Center, this workshop helps participants identify their strengths, values, and skills and translate them into a clear, authentic professional brand. Attendees will learn how to present themselves confidently through resumes, online profiles, networking, and everyday workplace interactions.

Presenter:

• Marlena Rios
  Adult Education Transition Advisor

Workshop Description:
Choosing a major or career path can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re not sure where to start. In this interactive 45-minute breakout session, you’ll explore what truly matters to you and how those priorities influence the decisions you make about your future. Can you name your top values or describe your attributes? Together, we’ll uncover the internal and external factors that shape big decisions, and introduce practical tools and resources you can use right now to gain clarity and direction. Bring your phone and be ready to engage as we move beyond simply “getting by” and start identifying what it takes to truly thrive—academically, professionally, and personally.

Presenters:

• Cesar Covarrubias
  President/Owner, Service Plus Heating & Cooling
• Maggie Coulter
  Office Manager, Service Plus Heating & Cooling
• Becky Kostelny
  Human Resources and Compliance Manager, Weldstar Company
• Peter Skoda
  HR Manager Deputy Site Executive Officer, Freudenberg
• Hilario Fernandez
  CWDP, Adult Education Career Workforce Advisor, Panel Moderator

Workshop Description:
What do employers really want new hires to know? In this interactive panel, local employers share candid insights on the behaviors, habits, and professional skills that help employees succeed—or struggle—on the job. Participants will gain real-world advice on communication, reliability, attitude, and workplace expectations, with the opportunity to hear directly from hiring professionals.

Presenter:

• Jessie Yung
  Testing Services Department Coordinator

Workshop Description:
The way we communicate with friends isn’t always the same way we should communicate in professional settings. This interactive workshop helps participants recognize the importance of professional communication in face-to-face, email, and phone situations within the employment setting. Attendees will practice improving tone, clarity, and professionalism in real-world scenarios. Please bring your cell phone and be prepared to log into your personal email.

Presenters:

• Dr. Alyson Gaspar
  Career and Technical Education Services Manager
• Andrea Montgomery
  Assistant Professor of Fire Science Technology and Emergency Medical Technician

Workshop Description:
Communication, organization, time management, and critical thinking are not just "soft skills"—they are Essential Skills!  Mastering these skills will have a big impact on your GPA and your future paycheck. Join this workshop to learn ways to improve your academic performance, develop professional habits, and become the candidate employers are seeking.

Presenter:

• Jennifer L. Lara
  Waubonsee Works Program Manager

Workshop Description:
Deciding whether to disclose a disability or personal circumstance at work can feel complex and deeply personal. This workshop helps participants understand what disclosure means, when it may be beneficial, and how it connects to workplace rights and accommodations. Attendees will explore practical considerations, communication strategies, and resources to make informed, confident decisions that support their success in the workplace. No legal advice will be provided, but this will be a safe space for a discussion.

Presenter:

• Beatrice Koka
  Adult Education Career Advisor

Workshop Description:
LinkedIn is more than an online resume—it’s a powerful tool for building your professional brand and connecting with employers. This workshop guides participants through building a LinkedIn profile that highlights skills, experiences, and career goals in a professional way. Attendees will learn how to write strong summaries, showcase accomplishments, and use LinkedIn effectively for networking and job searching.

Presenter:

• Dr. Alyson Gaspar
  Career and Technical Education Services Manager

Workshop Description:
Stop wondering "what’s next" and start doing it. If you love solving problems, using tools, or helping others, Career and Technical Education is where theory meets reality. Come learn how Waubonsee’s specialized programs can sharpen your skills and get you into the workforce faster. Your seat is waiting—find out where you fit in.

Presenter:

• OneStop

Workshop Description:
Not all jobs are created equal—some are stepping stones to long-term careers. Presented by the local One-Stop Career Center, this workshop helps participants understand the difference between short-term employment and career pathways, and how to make informed decisions about their next move. Attendees will learn how to use workforce resources, training options, and support services to build a clear plan that leads from a job today to a career tomorrow.

Presenter:

• Junior Acheivement

Workshop Description:
LinkedIn is more than an online resume—it’s a powerful tool for building your professional identity and connecting with employers. This workshop guides participants through creating or improving a LinkedIn profile that highlights skills, experiences, and career goals in a professional way. Attendees will learn how to write strong summaries, showcase accomplishments, and use LinkedIn effectively for networking and job searching.

Presenter:

• Andrew Tollberg
  Financial Education and Outreach Coordinator

Workshop Description:
That first real paycheck feels exciting—but it can disappear faster than expected. Presented by the college’s financial advisors, this workshop helps participants understand how to build a realistic budget, manage expenses, and make smart financial decisions early in their careers. Attendees will learn strategies for balancing needs, wants, savings, and avoiding common money mistakes.

Presenter:

• Michelle Dahlstrom
  Student Life Manager

Workshop Description:
Students develop career-ready skills in more places than they often realize—through employment, volunteer service, academic projects, caregiving roles, community engagement, and campus involvement. Yet many underestimate the value of these experiences or struggle to translate them into professional language.

This interactive workshop helps students shift from a “job mindset” to a “career mindset” by identifying transferable skills gained through work, service, and lived experiences. Participants will also explore how intentional involvement—on campus and in the community—can further expand their skills, networks, and career opportunities.

Presenter:

• OneStop

Workshop Description:
A strong resume is only part of the job search—how you apply matters just as much. Presented by the local One-Stop Career Center, this workshop breaks down what employers and applicant tracking systems are really looking for. Participants will learn practical strategies to tailor resumes, complete applications effectively, and avoid common mistakes that prevent qualified candidates from getting interviews.

Presenter:

• Dr. Tamikia Smith*
  Dean for Business and Social Sciences

Workshop Description:
This interactive workshop is designed for individuals who are curious about becoming a teacher and want to learn how to turn that interest into a clear, achievable pathway. Participants will explore certification requirements, academic preparation steps, financial aid options, and career opportunities in high-need areas. The session will also highlight “Grow Your Own” pathways inspired by Grow Your Own Illinois, which support community-connected and underrepresented aspiring educators. Attendees will leave with practical next steps, resources, and a personalized action plan to begin their journey into the teaching profession.

Presenter:

• Jessica Gofforth
  Compensation & Workforce Planning Manager

Workshop Description:
Human Resources plays an important role throughout your career, from onboarding to workplace concerns and professional development. Presented by HR professionals, this workshop helps participants understand how HR supports employees, when to reach out, and how to navigate conversations about policies, benefits, performance, and workplace challenges. Attendees will gain confidence in communicating effectively with HR as both new and experienced employees.

Presenter:

• Mackenzie Hillmann
  Waubonsee Works Master's Level Intern

Workshop Description:
First impressions matter, and professional appearance and behavior can influence how others perceive you in the workplace. This interactive workshop explores the basics of professional dress, workplace etiquette, and industry expectations. Participants will engage in a hands-on activity where they evaluate and rank different professional outfits while discussing how attire, body language, and etiquette contribute to a positive and professional image.

Presenter:

• Carolina Gutierrez
  Community Engagement Outreach Coordinator
• Emily Rollins
  Community Engagement Manager

Workshop Description:
Whether you’re meeting an employer, networking at an event, or interviewing for a job, being able to clearly introduce yourself and share your goals can open important doors. This workshop helps participants develop a concise and compelling elevator pitch that highlights their skills, experiences, and career interests. Attendees will learn how to confidently tell their story and practice delivering their pitch in a professional and memorable way.