Career Ready Graduates: Embedding Career Readiness into Academic Programs

Career Level: Basic-, intermediate-, and advanced-level career services, university relations and recruiting, and business affiliate professionals
Competency: Computing systems and applications - career services management systems
Fee: FREE (member); FREE (nonmember);

Summary
Prepare students for workforce success with actionable strategies to integrate career readiness into academic programs. This session explores aligning curricula with employer expectations, embedding technical and soft skills through course design and experiential learning, and leveraging AI-driven tools to enhance career services. Learn how to develop meaningful employer partnerships that provide students with real-world opportunities and improve outcomes, such as placement rates and employer satisfaction. Leave with proven frameworks and insights to bridge the gap between education and employment.

Following this program, you will be able to:
- Identify key technical and soft skills employers value and gaps in graduate preparedness;
- Develop strategies to embed career readiness in curricula and experiential learning; and
- Create employer partnerships to provide real-world opportunities that enhance student outcomes.
Presenters

Leander Howard II, Chief Marketing Officer, WriteSea
Leander Howard II, Co-Founder & CMO of WriteSea, is a leader in career readiness innovation. With expertise in AI-driven solutions and workforce alignment, he empowers students and job seekers to meet employer expectations. A Georgia State alum, he's transforming career development programs.

Brandon Mitchell, Co-Founder & CEO, WriteSea
Brandon Mitchell, CEO of WriteSea, is a visionary entrepreneur transforming career services with AI-driven solutions. With a PwC consulting background and leadership roles at BrandResumes and 40 Tons Brand, he empowers job seekers and employers. Featured in Forbes, Brandon drives innovation in career readiness and equity.