Advice for college of technology and aviation students
My name is Lucy Kollhoff, Career & Employment Services liaison to the College of Technology 
and Aviation, Kansas State University, Salina campus. I am always happy to assist you in your job search needs. You can make an appointment by contacting me at 785-826-2639 to visit about your resume, interviewing techniques, job/internship strategies or career-related changes you might be contemplating.
Even though the economy is tight, some sections of the economy are growing, and people still continue to retire, move, etc. So, there will continue to be job opportunities in your future travels. A word of encouragement: There are still jobs and internships out there! Competition is stiff, but there is interest in hiring engineering technologists. Aviation students need to remember that the industry has always been very cyclical, even more so than the general economy as has been evidenced lately. However, this industry will recover as it always has, and know that some segments are still growing such as UAS which is expanding rapidly.
TIPS: to assist you in your job search:
- Take time to be smarter, faster, and better. Keep your resume updated and sharp looking. Call for an appointment, or drop in at the K-State Salina Writing Center located in the Tech Center – anytime. What should you do with your resume? E-mail it, post it online, hand-out at career fairs or workshops, ask friends to give it to their manager. The key is to get your resume into the hands of as many hiring managers as you can. Utilize other K-State resources such as the resume guide and interview guide for additional tips for resume and interviewing.
- Implement new job search ideas. Use new keywords for the positions you are applying for when searching online. Reach out and use new networks, new career sources, and friends. Remember to always take time to follow-up with contacts you make!
- Patience. Take an internship or part-time position in your field versus a job. Some internships and/or part-time positions turn into full time employment. Consult in your field of study. Gain additional certifications in your field or continue your education for a Master’s degree. Stretch yourself and think about different locations and various industries that you can work in.
- Stay connected. Volunteer – within the community or within your industry. Join and attend professional organizations in your field. Visit and help other job seekers – not only is your self-confidence boosted, but your generosity is bound to come back to you in the end!
Other sources that I might suggest as you continue to contemplate future travels with your career:
- Your CES account
- Indeed.com
- Soar with Your Strengths, Donald O. Clifton and Paula Nelson
- StrengthsQuest, Discover and Develop Your Strengths in Academics, Career & Beyond, Clifton, Anderson and Schreiner.
- Who Moved my Cheese, Spencer Johnson MD
- The Adventures of Johnny Bunko, Daniel H. Pink
In closing, become that “sure candidate” by working hard to prepare, network and market yourself! Remember, in the American Job Market, you can launch your career . . . go beyond ordinary . . .and your career dreams CAN come true.