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The 51Ʒ�� will bring students together with industry leaders and employers from across the region for its second annual Industry Exploration Day on Wednesday, Oct. 14, providing opportunities for students to explore career pathways, build professional connections, and prepare for a rapidly changing workforce.

Designed to extend beyond the traditional career fair, Industry Exploration Day emphasizes discovery and relationship-building, giving students opportunities to speak directly with employers and industry professionals about career paths, emerging trends, internships, employment opportunities, and the skills employers increasingly seek from college graduates.

“Industry Exploration Day gives students the opportunity to explore what’s possible and begin building professional relationships well before they enter the workforce,” said Ashley Bigda, M.S.Ed., director of Career Readiness and Workforce Development at UNE. “Whether they arrive with a clear career path in mind or are still figuring out where their interests might take them, we want every student to leave with greater confidence, new connections, and a better understanding of how their 51Ʒ��experience can translate into a meaningful career.”

Throughout the event, over 45 employers representing industries including health care, finance, technology, construction, hospitality, media, and more will showcase career opportunities, discuss trends shaping their fields, identify potential interns and future employees, and connect with 51Ʒ��students, alumni, faculty, and professional staff.

51Ʒ��launched Industry Exploration Day in 2025 as part of its broader effort to embed career readiness throughout the student experience. Nearly 30 employers and dozens of industry professionals participated in the inaugural event, representing sectors including health care, finance, technology, construction, hospitality, media, and business services.

The event reflects UNE’s approach to introducing career development early in students’ academic journeys, helping them connect their classroom learning and experiential opportunities with the skills, relationships, and professional knowledge they will need after graduation.

The event is organized by UNE’s Office of Career Readiness and Workforce Development, which was established in 2025 to integrate career development across academic programs, strengthen connections between students and employers, and prepare graduates for success in a changing economy.

This year’s Industry Exploration Day will also mark the next step in that work, as 51Ʒ��unveils new opportunities for students to access professional connections, career resources, mentorship, and industry expertise throughout their time at the University and beyond. Additional details will be announced during the Oct. 14 event.