From Graduate Research to Industry Impact: Navigating Your Early in Career Path

Industrial Problems Seminar

Brooke Logan Ogrodnik
Metron

Abstract

My career path from graduate student to securing a position as a Research Scientist at Metron required not only strong academic performance but also essential soft skills such as communication and self-awareness. In this talk, I will share insights, anecdotes, and lessons learned from my professional journey that helped open doors and create new opportunities. The discussion will begin with a brief introduction to provide context and background, followed by an exploration of the motivations behind my career choices and the reasons I was selected for my role. Using this as a foundation, I will offer practical advice, particularly on how to effectively communicate your “self” to potential employers. We will then discuss crafting an effective elevator pitch, highlighting key considerations. Attendees are encouraged, though not required, to come prepared with their own draft ideas or questions on how to pitch to potential employers.