AE 10th Celebration includes sage advice for students

Taking advantage of "stretching, broadening experiences while in school" not only looks good on a résumé, it also benefits students in their careers later on, noted industry and alumni professionals during Architectural Engineering's 10th Birthday Celebration, Oct. 6, 2008.

Students from UNL's Omaha Campus were treated to the advice of AE alumni and industry leaders as part of the anniversary festivities. The event also featured a reception attended by several hundred alumni, industry representatives, faculty, staff and students of the AE program and The Durham School. 

Members of the AE alumni panel included Stephanie Guy, '05, DLR Group; Adam Christiansen, '05, Larson Engineering; James Wingert, '07, HDR; Matt O'Boyle, '06, HDR; Toby Samuelson, '04, Farris Engineering; Doug Nelsen, '06, Leo A Daly; Ryan Curtis, '06, Leo A Daly; and Ryan Pelster, '04, Performance Engineering; Jamie VanRoy, '03, Schnackel Engineers; and Shaun Nienhueser, '08, Farris Engineering. 

Industry panel members included James Hedgpeth Jr., Leo A Daly; Steve Moser, Goetting & Associates; Jennifer Volz, Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.; Roger Wozny, The Schemmer Associates; Guenther Dziuvenis, Johnson Controls; and Leigh Harrison, HGA. 

"There is not a better [AE] program than this one," one industry panelist noted, and the members agreed that the AE program at UNL is "something special." They noted that having industry so involved in the program and the community is a major benefit for students and faculty.

When asked the top attributes employers are seeking in new engineers, the answers somewhat surprised the students. Humility, good communication skills, a positive attitude, and an energy and passion for their field of interest were all cited. When asked about the technical expertise needed, the professional agreed: "You're in a great program, so the technical skills are a given." 

The alumni and industry panel members also highly encouraged students to pursue internships and co-op experiences. They emphasized that they are always learning and that their companies provide numerous opportunities to expand their knowledge and experience as well. 

Ultimately, UNL's Architectural Engineering program is providing "students who are second to none."