The Association of Information Systems (AIS) at UNC Charlotte recently hosted an enriching and highly engaging professional development session focused on helping students prepare for and secure internships in Management Information Systems (MIS) and Information Technology (IT). The event brought together aspiring young professionals eager to understand how to navigate the competitive tech job market—both during their college years and after graduation.
One of the highlights of the session was a dynamic presentation facilitated by Dr. Brittani “Dr. Brit” Washington, who shared strategic guidance on internship preparation, career placement, and building a strong professional identity within the evolving world of technology.
To further strengthen the experience for students, she also partnered with Honeywell’s Director of Human Resources, who joined the session to provide insider perspectives on hiring expectations, internship pipelines, and what leading companies are actively looking for in early‑career talent.
Together, they delivered a powerful, actionable, and inspiring message to the next generation of IT leaders.
Building the Foundation: How to Prepare for MIS & IT Internships
During her presentation, Dr. Brit emphasized that the journey to a strong career in technology starts long before graduation. She walked students through key strategies that can position them for competitive MIS and IT internship opportunities, including:
1. Understanding the Landscape
Students were encouraged to explore the wide variety of roles available within MIS and IT, such as:
- Business and systems analysis
- Cybersecurity
- Data and analytics
- Cloud support
- IT consulting
- Project management
Understanding these pathways helps students better align their interests with future opportunities.
2. Developing Technical and Professional Skills
Dr. Brit emphasized the importance of:
- Strengthening core IT competencies
- Building proficiency in tools used across the field
- Cultivating soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability
She reminded students that employers value well‑rounded candidates who understand both the technical and human sides of technology.
3. Creating a Stand‑Out Resume and Online Presence
Students received guidance on:
- Tailoring resumes to specific roles
- Highlighting IT projects and coursework
- Using LinkedIn to showcase their tech identity
- Connecting with professionals in the industry
These practical steps help transform academic experiences into compelling professional narratives.
Industry Insight from Honeywell’s Director of Human Resources
The session gained even more value through Dr. Brit’s partnership with Honeywell, a global leader in technology and innovation. Honeywell’s Director of HR shared firsthand knowledge about:
- What companies expect from student interns
- Key qualities hiring managers look for in early‑career professionals
- How internship performance influences full‑time job placement
- The importance of adaptability, eagerness to learn, and initiative
- Honeywell’s own hiring needs and internship pipeline
For students, hearing directly from a senior HR leader at a Fortune 100 company provided clarity, direction, and motivation. It demystified the hiring process and helped students better understand how to strategically position themselves for success.
Connecting Classroom Knowledge to Real‑World Careers
A major theme across the session was the importance of bridging academic learning with workplace application. Students were challenged to:
- Seek opportunities to apply class concepts outside the classroom
- Get involved in student organizations and technical clubs
- Participate in hackathons, case competitions, and certification programs
- Build a portfolio that showcases their skills and creativity
These tangible steps help students demonstrate readiness for the professional world long before graduation.
A Powerful Collaboration Focused on Student Success
The partnership between UNC Charlotte’s AIS chapter, Dr. Brit, and Honeywell created a transformative experience for students. The insights shared were practical, forward‑thinking, and aligned with the demands of today’s technology‑driven workforce.
Students walked away feeling:
- Informed about the pathways available within MIS and IT
- Motivated to pursue internships with confidence
- Equipped with the tools needed to navigate the hiring process
- Inspired by leaders who have walked the path before them
The event reinforced UNC Charlotte’s commitment to preparing students for professional excellence and creating meaningful connections between academia and industry.