Panel Discussion
Event Details
Location: Bank of America Career Services Center, University Park, PA
Time: 1:30 PM – 2:15 PM.
Session Overview
Join us for an interactive panel discussion featuring distinguished alumni from the Workforce Education & Development (WFED) program. Panelists will share real-world insights on everything from choosing WFED to landing successful careers in diverse industries. Learn how their academic experiences, internships, and practical projects helped shape their professional paths.
Discussion Topics
- WFED Program Experience: Why they joined, what they learned, and how those insights shaped their careers
- Career Development & Internships: How hands-on learning and projects translated into real-world skills
- Current Roles & Career Transitions: Insider perspectives on transitioning from WFED to the workforce
- Challenges & Lessons Learned: Overcoming obstacles post-graduation and succeeding in evolving job markets
- Advice for Students: Networking strategies, job-search tips, and ways to maximize your WFED experience
- Future Workforce Trends: Emerging industry directions and essential skills for the next generation of professionals
Career Fair Highlights
Connect with organizations that align with the WFED program’s emphasis on innovation, workforce development, and organizational success. Representatives from diverse industries will be present to discuss:
- Internship and employment opportunities.
- The role of technology and workforce readiness in their operations.
- Key insights into adapting to emerging workforce trends.
2. Professional Branding
Take advantage of free professional headshots to enhance your LinkedIn profile and other career platforms. This is a perfect opportunity to build a professional image that aligns with your career goals.
3. Skill Development
Participate in live discussions with industry professionals and learn about:
- The skills most in demand in workforce education and development.
- How to position yourself as a future-ready professional.
- Trends in technology shaping the workforce landscape.
Who’s Panelists?
1. Dr. Angela Rogers
Angela Rogers, Ph.D., is an Education & Development Specialist at Penn State’s Applied Research Laboratory, managing needs assessments, mentoring programs, and professional development for 1,400+ employees. She earned her doctorate in Workforce Education and Development (2022) with a dissertation on new employee onboarding. Angela serves as VP of Finance (and Past President) for the Pittsburgh ATD Chapter and is Treasurer of the State College Toastmasters club.
2. Dr. Robert Griggs
Robert Griggs, Ph.D., is a Task Force Senior Trainer for the U.S. Army’s National Training Center and senior consultant at JKAN Consulting. He has worked with Amazon, FedEx, and Ryder, among others. A retired Army Infantry Officer with 26 years of service, Dr. Griggs earned his Ph.D. and M.Ed. from Penn State, plus a Master’s in National Security Studies from the U.S. Naval War College. He focuses on leader and organizational performance.
3. Dr. Sue Greene, SHRM-CP
Sue Greene, Ph.D., SHRM-CP, PHR, CCT, is the County Administrator-Chief Clerk for Union County, PA, overseeing multiple departments. With over 40 years of experience spanning diverse sectors, she holds a Ph.D. in Workforce Education and Development from Penn State, focusing on elected women commissioners’ motivation. Dr. Greene is an active SHRM volunteer leader and has received several honors, including the Athena International Leadership Award.
4. Dr. Krista Troiani
Krista Troiani, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Management at Susquehanna University. She holds a bachelor’s in Business Administration and Marketing from Bloomsburg University, an MBA in International Business from Wilkes University, and a Ph.D. in Workforce Education (Human Resource Management and Organization Development) from Penn State. Her research targets effective solutions to support working mothers and enhance organizational efficiency.
5. Dr. Jamie Campbell
Jamie Campbell, Ph.D., is Associate Dean of Diversity Enhancement Programs at Penn State’s Smeal College of Business. A Certified Diversity Executive, he has co-authored multiple books on organizational DEI, including “Beyond Symbolic DEI” (2024). Previously a Fellow for CEO Action for Racial Equity at PwC, Dr. Campbell earned his Ph.D. from Penn State with a focus on workplace diversity performance factors and has secured over $200K in corporate grants for mentoring and organizational change initiatives.
6. Dr. Brian Ketchem
Brian Ketchem, Ph.D., is a consultant with Canopy Inclusive and DrmTree Associates. He founded Canopy Inclusive Inc., leads a third-generation family-owned manufacturing firm, and holds prior roles in marketing and management consulting. Dr. Ketchem’s Ph.D. in Workforce Education and Development (OD & HRD) follows an MBA in Strategic Leadership and a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, all from Penn State. He is certified in Appreciative Inquiry and specializes in organizational development strategies.
