The event began with a luncheon for College of Sciences’ faculty and staff where representatives from GTRI provided an overview of its mission and research areas.

“The better our faculty and staff understand GTRI, the better we can support students interested in pursuing careers there,” says James Stringfellow, career education program manager at the College of Sciences, who organized the event.

Stringfellow welcomed attendees and thanked GTRI for creating meaningful opportunities for students. He also emphasized the value of the growing pipeline between the College and GTRI.

Following the luncheon, GTRI recruiters met one‑on‑one with students to discuss available positions and the best methods to find and apply for GTRI research roles.

The event concluded with a GTRI panel featuring Jeremy Brown, director of education and outreach; Eric Klein, senior research associate; and Thomas Martin, (EE 91), chief scientist. The panelists highlighted its broad range of positions and encouraged students to consider internships, co-ops, and long‑term career paths at GTRI.

“We hire around 500 students a year, and many earn security clearances,” explains Brown. “We want students to get connected to GTRI early and understand our mission. Talk to us about your research projects and how you want to contribute.”

Students who attended said the panel’s conversational format helped them better understand how their academic work can translate into research careers.

“The atmosphere was great — more of a conversation than a lecture. I liked that it was tailored for students who are interested in research,” says Txaber Treviño, a first‑year aerospace engineering major.

“I came because I was interested in careers where I can apply a science degree,” shares Aryan Bhakta, a first‑year biology major. “GTRI is a great example of a place where researchers can make a difference.”

Panelists emphasized the GTRI’s mission‑driven work and the importance of curiosity, persistence, and hands‑on experience.

“The work done at GTRI is important,” says Martin. “As a university-affiliated research center, we work on emerging technologies that serve a higher purpose. It’s an exciting and fulfilling place to work.”

Klein encouraged students to explore opportunities early in their academic careers. “Use your co-ops, internships, or research jobs on campus to prepare for a future aligned with what you are passionate about,” he says. “And if you have trouble finding a research position in your area of interest, go to a professor or volunteer. That really stands out on a résumé.”

GTRI Day is part of the College of Sciences Career Education event series. The Students and Alumni Leadership Dinner on Wednesday, April 8th, will close out the semester's events.