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The Career Accelerator Program (CAP) is a collaboration between the School of Business, SEST, and the Career Development Office that connects students with profession presenters and session curriculum developers. CAP activities provide career readiness classes and events to improve Central graduates’ potential for career success when entering the workforce. CAP events help students with resume development, interview skills, networking, and more.
Questions? Contact
Dana Wilkie
Associate Dean, School of Business
dwilkie@ccsu.edu
860.832.3223
Fall 2025 Events
INTERVIEW SUCCESS STRATEGIES
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this workshop, Alex Martinez from The Hartford will share proven interview success strategies. This session will cover preparation techniques, common interview questions, effective response frameworks, and methods to showcase your unique value proposition to potential employers.
Presenter: Alex Martinez, The Hartford
BEING PROFESSIONAL: SOFT SKILLS AT WORK
Thursday, September 18, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this session, Brittany Galko will demonstrate effective communication across different mediums and audiences, Emotional intelligence and relationship building, adaptability and resilience in changing environments, time management and organizational efficiency and collaborative teamwork.
Presenter: Brittany Galko, Cohn Resnick
JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES
Wednesday, September 24, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this workshop, Robert Bradley from New York Life will share job search strategies that go beyond the basics of simply applying online. Drawing from his extensive experience at one of the nation's largest financial services companies, he will provide insights into how successful candidates navigate the complex modern job market.
Presenter: Robert Bradley, New York Life
CONFLICT RESOLUTION IN THE WORKPLACE
Thursday, October 2, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
Learn from Andrew Bagley's extensive leadership experience at Fastenal. This interactive workshop will provide you with practical tools to navigate workplace conflicts effectively, transforming potential disruptions into opportunities for growth and improved team dynamics.
Presenter: Andrew Bagley, Fastenal
CRAFTING A STANDOUT RESUME
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In today's competitive job market, your resume often serves as your first impression with potential employers. Jamie Conlon from Northwestern Mutual will lead this comprehensive workshop on creating resumes that effectively showcase your qualifications and capture recruiter attention.
Presenter: Jamie Conlon, Northwestern Mutual
OBTAINING AN INTERNSHIP, HOW, WHEN & WHERE
Wednesday, October 8, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
Using her experience with Northwestern Mutual's internship program, Amanda Meskell will explain the typical steps in internship interviews, She will explain how to showcase your coursework, projects, and activities.. to makes student applicants stand out to employers.
Presenter: Amanda Meskell, Northwestern Mutual
CAREER READINESS STEPS
Thursday, October 16, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this workshop, Dr. Caleb Bragg will outline the essential steps students should take to achieve true career readiness. This session goes beyond basic job search advice to address the holistic development needed to transition successfully from academic to professional environments.
Presenter: Caleb Bragg, Associate Professor at Central Connecticut State University
DEVELOP YOUR NETWORKING SKILLS
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
This workshop will transform how you approach professional relationship building. Carolyn will demystify networking, shifting it from an intimidating obligation to a natural extension of your professional identity.
Presenter: Carolyn Freer, Central Connecticut State University
BUSINESS ETIQUETTE IN THE WORKPLACE
Thursday, October 30, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this workshop, Courtney Kollar from RSM will guide students through the world of business etiquette. As a professional from one of the leading audit, tax, and consulting firms, SHE brings valuable insights on the unwritten rules that govern professional interactions and influence. advancement.
Presenter: Courtney Kollar, RSM
CRAFTING YOUR ELEVATOR PITCH
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
This workshop focuses on developing a compelling elevator pitch. a concise, powerful introduction that communicates who you are professionally in 30-60 seconds. Cathy will guide students through a structured process for creating elevator pitches that are relevant to your audience, memorable and adaptable to all situations.
Presenter: Cathy Donahue, Central Connecticut State University
PREPARE FOR CAREER FAIR SUCCESS
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
student center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
Career fairs represent concentrated opportunities to connect with multiple employers in a single setting, but they require strategic preparation to yield meaningful results. In this workshop, Christine Lupo from UHY will share insider perspectives on how to maximize your career fair experiences from an employer's viewpoint.
Presenter: Christine Lupo, UHY
AI IN THE WORKPLACE
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
student center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this forward-looking workshop, Chris Scalzo from Boston Scientific will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming workplace dynamics across industries. As AI technologies continue to evolve rapidly, understanding their applications and implications has become essential for career readiness.
Presenter: Christopher Scalzo, Boston Scientific
UNDERSTANDING CULTURAL COMPETENCIES
Thursday, November 13, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In our increasingly globalized and diverse workplace, cultural competence has become an essential professional skill.. Lisa Wisniewski will lead this comprehensive workshop on developing the awareness, knowledge, and skills needed to work effectively across cultural differences.
Presenter: Lisa Wisniewski, Goodwin university
BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS & CORE VALUES
Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Student Center, Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
Drawing from Northwestern Mutual's relationship-centered business model, Veronica will share principles for building meaningful professional connections, practicing authentic curiosity about others, demonstrating reliability and consistency, offering support without expectation of return, and communicating with transparency and integrity.
Presenter: Veronica Rondinelli, Northwestern Mutual
Past Events in Spring 2025
January 29, 2025
RVAC 005 - AI Corridor, 12:15 p.m.
This session is designed to help students to thrive in a rapidly evolving job market shaped by AI and automation. Students will explore strategies for
building career agility, adapting to change, and cultivating resilience in the face of industry shifts. Students will become equipped with a proactive mindset and actionable tools to remain competitive and resilient in the age of AI.
Presenter: Christopher Salzo, Technology Executive at Boston Scientific.
January 30, 2025
RVAC 105, 3:05 p.m.
This session is designed to help students discover their own unique motivations to drive career success. They will explore personal values, interests, and strengths, to gain insights into what truly inspires them and learn how to align their career goals accordingly.
Presenter: Steve Guglietta, Director of Learning & Development at COCC.
February 6, 2025
Student Center - Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In the fast-paced world of deadlines, meetings, and constant connectivity, it’s easy to overlook the most powerful tool for managing stress and enhancing well- being: your breath. This interactive workshop introduces you to the transformative practice of breathwork, a simple yet profound technique to improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and cultivate mindfulness in the workplace.
Presenter: William Fothergill, Licensed Professional Counselor in CT.
February 6, 2025
Student Center - Sprague, 3:05 p.m.
In this session, students will learn what the purpose of an elevator pitch and learning why an elevator pitch is important and how it can help in various professional contexts, such as networking events, job interviews, and business introductions. Students will develop strategies for crafting a concise and impactful elevator pitch that highlights key strengths, achievements, and goals.
Presenter: Valerie Wilson, Career Development Professional at Central.
February 12, 2025
Student Center - Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this session, students will learn strategies to positively present yourself through appearance, networking skills, and authenticity. They will gain techniques for boosting your communication skills, including selecting appropriate communication mediums and crafting effective emails. They will also learn best practices for practicing proper business etiquette in remote work settings and managing hybrid work.
Presenter: Travis Smith, Aftermarket Sustainment Engineer at Pratt & Whitney.
February 20, 2025
Student Center - Philbrick, 3:05 p.m.
In this session, students will learn the key topics such as preparing for common and behavioral interview questions, showcasing strengths and experiences, managing nerves, and creating a positive first impression. Students will develop practical experience to build confidence and develop personalized action plans to excel in future interviews.
Presenter: Nicholas Miller, Director of Global Specialty Data Science and Analytics at The Hartford Insurance.
March 6, 2025
Student Center - Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
In this session, students at all stages of their academic journey who want to sharpen their networking skills and create pathways to professional success, will learn how to craft and deliver a compelling personal introduction. They will be able to approach networking events and professional conversations with ease and build authentic connections that lead to long-term opportunities.
Presenter: Brittany Galko of CohnReznick
March 6, 2025
Student Center - Philbrick, 3:05 p.m.
In this session, students will learn how to research market rates, articulate their value, and confidently navigate salary discussions with potential employers. Students will learn the key negotiation tactics, addressing common concerns, and handling counteroffers, to be well-prepared to secure a fair and satisfying compensation package as they begin a new role.
Presenter: Amanda Meskell, Director of Internship Development & Recruitment at Northwestern Mutual.
March 12, 2025
Student Center - Philbrick, 12:15 p.m.
This session is designed to guide you through
the eight career readiness competencies, as
outlined by NACE, each of which can be
demonstrated in a variety of ways.
- Career and Self-Development
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Equity and Inclusion
- Leadership
- Professionalism
- Teamwork
- Technology
Presenter: Mark Griffith, Assurance Supervisor at RSM
March 27, 2025
Student Center - Sprague, 3:05 p.m.
In this session, students will learn how to build effective networking skills to advance their careers and expand professional connections. They will develop techniques for starting and maintaining conversations, identifying networking opportunities, and following up with contacts.
Presenter: Tyler Nadeau, Data Engineer at Travelers
Past Events In Fall 2024
September 12, 2024
Student Center, 1849 room, 3:05 p.m.
This session is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to obtain a successful internship. In this course, students will learn the ins and outs of the internship application process, as well as how to effectively communicate their skills and experiences to potential employers. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the key elements of a successful internship search, and develop the skills required to secure an internship in their field of interest. Refreshments included!
Presenter: Ashley Browning, Talent Specialist at COCC
September 26, 2024
Memorial Hall, Connecticut Room, 12:15 p.m.
This session is designed to help students develop the skills and strategies needed to obtain a successful internship. In this course, students will learn the ins and outs of the internship application process, as well as how to effectively communicate their skills and experiences to potential employers. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the key elements of a successful internship search, and develop the skills required to secure an internship in their field of interest. Pizza Lunch included!
Presenter: Amanda Meskell, Director of Internship Development & Recruitment Northwestern Mutual/ Emerging Talent.
October 16, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.
This sessions is focused on creating an effective resume or improve the one you already have. Transform your resume into a powerful tool that will get you interviews. Learn different resume formats and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Make the most of your experience and discover how to use references to your advantage. Pizza Lunch included!
Presenter: Brittany Galko, Member of a diverse Human Resources team at CohnReznick LLP.
September 18, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.
In this session, students will learn about careers in the financial sector. The financial sector a section of the economy made up of firms and institutions that provide financial services to commercial and retail customers. This sector comprises a broad range of industries including banks, investment companies, insurance companies, and real estate firms. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Rosa Y. C. Chen, CFA®, CPA Director of Research & Portfolio Manager
September 19, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.
In this session, students will gain an understanding of a career fair and its purpose. They will become aware of how to research employers and best prepare to attend one of these events and learn how to effectively navigate a career fair. They will learn how to enhance their networking skills and recognize the importance of following up with employers. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: P.J. Rossitto, Director of Career Development
October 2, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.
This session aims to enhance students understanding of cultural competencies and their importance in fostering an inclusive and productive work environment. Students will identify key components of cultural competencies, including awareness, knowledge, and skills and explore the impact of cultural diversity on team dynamics and organizational success. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Dr. Lisa Wisniewski, Professor of Sociology at Goodwin University
Watch Presentation - Understanding Cultural Competencies in the Workplace
October 10, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.
This session is designed to help you start thinking about your Personal Brand and provide you with practical steps on how to start building and communicating both online and offline, who you are, what you do, what your core strengths and skills are as well as the value you can bring to a company. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Alex Martinez, University Relations Consultant at The Hartford
October 24, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 3:05 p.m.
This session is designed to help students develop their emotional intelligence skills in the classroom and workplace, improving their ability to communicate effectively, manage relationships, and make decisions. Emotional intelligence is a crucial skill for success in the modern workplace, and this session will provide students with the tools and strategies needed to enhance their emotional intelligence and improve their performance in class and at work. Refreshments included!
Presenter: Alana Ledford, Communications consultant and educator at Foxcroft Communications and Central Connecticut State University
Watch Presentation - Emotional Intelligence In The Workplace
October 30, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.
This session is designed to help students develop and deliver an authentic elevator pitch that effectively communicates their value proposition, captures attention, and makes a lasting impression. In today's fast-paced business environment, being able to articulate succinctly and convincingly who you are and what you offer is essential for networking, job interviews, and professional success. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Cathy Donhue, Communications strategist and educator
November 13, 2024
Student Center, Philbrick Room, 12:15 p.m.
Making the decision to go to graduate school is one that requires a great deal of planning and organization. This session is designed to provide students with information, advice, and resources to help them along the process. Students will be introduced to Accelerate Central. The Accelerate Program gives eligible, full-time business majors the opportunity to complete a BS and Masters degree in 5 years. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Dr. Christina Robinson, Associate Vice President of Recruitment and Admissions
Past Events In Spring 2024
January 24, 2024
Student Center Room 134, 12 p.m.
This session is designed to equip students at all levels with the skills and strategies to create lasting impressions. Students will engage in interactive exercises, role-playing scenarios, and group discussions to practice and refine their introduction skills in a supportive and constructive environment. Pizza lunch is included!
Presenter: Cathy Donahue
Cathy Donahue is a dynamic coaching and communication strategist who is passionate about helping leaders improve the value and outcomes of their work.
January 31, 2024
Vance Academic Center, Room 466, 12 p.m.
This session is focused on creating an effective resume or improving the one you already have. Transform your resume into a powerful tool that will get you interviews. Learn different resume formats and the advantages and disadvantages of each. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Brittany Galko
Brittany is a member of a diverse human resources team at CohnReznick LLP. She is well versed in the recruitment and retention of accounting interns and professionals. She exemplifies strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
February 7, 2024
Student Center Room 134, 12 p.m.
Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop on "Mastering the Art of Networking." In today's professional landscape, the ability to build and maintain effective networks is a crucial skill that can significantly impact your success. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Dr. Lisa Wisniewski
Lisa Wisniewski is a professor of sociology skilled in communication, multicultural education, and student development.
February 14, 2024
Sprague/Carlton Room, 12 p.m.
Career readiness is the attainment and demonstration of requisite competencies that broadly prepare college graduates for a successful transition into the workplace. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) has created a definition for career readiness to identify eight distinct competencies. The goal of this session is to equip students with knowledge and skill to utilize career competencies toward career readiness. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Alana Ledford
Communication Consultant and Educator, Foxcroft Communications & Central Connecticut State University
February 21, 2024
Philbrook Room, 12 p.m.
This session is designed to help students develop the skills and knowledge required to give and receive feedback effectively in a variety of formal and professional settings. In this session, students will learn strategies for delivering feedback that is constructive, specific, and actionable, and for receiving feedback with an open mind and a growth mindset. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Karrain Moody, Habitat for Humanity
February 28, 2024
Sprague/Carlton Room, 12 p.m.
Unlock the secrets to acing interviews and securing the job of your dreams with our comprehensive presentation on interview success strategies. In today's competitive job market, being well-prepared for interviews is essential for standing out and making a lasting impression on potential employers. Pizza lunch included!
Presenter: Jamie Roshka, Travelers
March 20, 2024
Philbrook Room, 12 p.m.
Embark on a transformative journey with our "Your Career, Our Mission" session, designed to empower students in navigating and advancing their professional paths with purpose and intention. In a world where careers are dynamic and diverse, it's essential to align personal aspirations with a broader sense of mission and impact.
Presenter: PJ Rossitto, Central Office of Career Development