Author: Kim Kufahl

The Shocker Career Accelerator is excited to host the Engineering and IT Career Fair from 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18 in 305/306 Rhatigan Student Center, Beggs Ballroom. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with employers actively hiring for roles in engineering and I.T.

If you are pursuing a degree in a STEM-related area, this is your moment to shine. Employers are ready to meet students with your background and skills — so come prepared.

Tips for success:

• Dress professionally
• Bring several copies of your resume
• Introduce yourself with confidence
• Ask questions and collect contact information

Faculty, staff, students and alumni can save up to 45% on select career wear, shoes and accessories with an extra 30% off coupon during the JCPenney Suit-Up event from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 at the JCPenney in Towne East Square.

Bring your WSU ID (or WSU ID number) to participate. The first students to check in will also receive a free Suit-Up branded tote bag (while supplies last).

Prefer to shop online? Text SHOCKS to 67292 to receive your 30% off coupon.

For questions, contact the Shocker Career Accelerator at SCA@wichita.edu.

The Shocker Career Accelerator (SCA) will host the Career Connection Root Beer Kegger from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27 on the east lawn of Hubbard Hall. More than 50 employers will be available to network with students, and the SCA team will provide information about career resources and opportunities. Students can enjoy hot dogs, free root beer and a relaxed outdoor environment while making connections that can advance their future careers. Casual attire is recommended, and students should bring their Shocker ID or number.

Note: The SCA office will be closed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 27 to host the event.

Join Shocker Career Accelerator for the Career Connection Root Beer Kegger from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27 on the east lawn of Hubbard Hall. More than 50 employers will be available to network with students, and the Shocker Career Accelerator team will be there to share helpful career resources. Enjoy hot dogs, free root beer and a laid-back outdoor atmosphere while making valuable connections for your future. Dress is casual. Bring your Shocker ID or number.

The Shocker Career Accelerator will be closed from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12 while the team hosts the On-Campus Job Fair. Shocker Career Accelerator looks forward to connecting students with campus employers during the event.

As a sophomore pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a concentration in design & technical theatre, Lena Castro has stepped into a leadership role that combines both technical expertise and mentorship. Lena’s applied learning experience as the head electrician and student lighting supervisor has been instrumental in shaping their skills and career aspirations.

Lena’s role is pivotal in transforming design concepts into fully realized stage productions. “My job is to interpret plots given to me by designers and put it on stage,” Lena said. “This process includes organizing, hanging, cabling, powering, addressing, programming, and more to make sure that everything is operational on the day of the show.”

Beyond their own technical responsibilities, Lena also oversees and teaches students who complete hands-on lab hours as part of their practicum. “Since we are a department of two people, practicum students really help with the many-hands-make-light-work aspect to get shows done in a timely manner.”

Wichita State is excited to announce that the State of Kansas Applied Learning Funds are now open for applications for the fiscal year 2026.

Who can apply?

WSU colleges and departments are invited to submit proposals. Special attention will be given to programs that have traditionally lacked access to paid applied learning opportunities.

What are the funding priorities?

• Areas of greatest need: Special attention will be given to programs that have traditionally lacked access to paid applied learning opportunities and where further development of a talent pipeline is needed for the Kansas workforce.
• Academic alignment: The work-based experience should connect with your academic program, ensuring students are building valuable bridges between theory and practice.
• Data-driven approach: The ability to collect data on your program’s effectiveness is crucial. This helps us ensure these funds have a lasting positive impact on student success.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity. To submit your proposal, visit wichita.edu/ALfund.

Kim Kufahl, assistant director of marketing and communication for the Shocker Career Accelerator, has been named one of the Wichita Business Journal’s Women Who Lead in major companies for 2025.

The recognition highlights her leadership in campus-wide career development efforts and her work showcasing Wichita State applied learning students through storytelling, media outreach and digital strategy. The Women Who Lead series honors outstanding professionals across a range of industries who are making a significant impact in the Wichita community.

Are you looking for ways to help your students explore career options and make informed decisions about their future? Attend the PathwayU: Overview & Advisor Access Training from 3 to 3:45 p.m. Friday, April 25 virtually via Microsoft Teams.

PathwayU is the comprehensive career assessment tool, utilized by the Shocker Career Accelerator. It is designed to guide students to their purpose, supporting their success and persistence. In this training session, you will learn how to:

• Navigate the platform’s features, including assessments, career matches, WSU major alignment and military crosswalk
• Gain valuable insights into student interests and career aspirations
• Integrate PathwayU into your teaching or advising practices to empower students

Prior to the session, create an account at wichita.pathwayu.com and take the four career assessments. Register on myTrainings via your myWSU.

Wichita State is excited to announce that the State of Kansas Applied Learning Funds are now open for applications for the 2026 fiscal year.

Who can apply?

WSU colleges and departments are invited to submit proposals. Special attention will be given to programs that have traditionally lacked access to paid applied learning opportunities.

What are the funding priorities?

• Areas of greatest need: Special attention will be given to programs that have traditionally lacked access to paid applied learning opportunities and where further development of a talent pipeline is needed for the Kansas workforce.
• Academic alignment: The work-based experience should connect with your academic program, ensuring students are building valuable bridges between theory and practice.
• Data-driven approach: The ability to collect data on your program’s effectiveness is crucial. This helps ensure these funds have a lasting positive impact on student success.

To submit your proposal, visit wichita.edu/ALfund.