Building Confidence and Versatility for Professional Success at the STEM Summit
You’ve done the research. You’ve analyzed the data. But how do you turn those experiences into a career?
Posted in: Career, CSAM Research, CSAM Students
At the College of Science and Mathematics at Montclair State University, the answer goes beyond technical knowledge. It’s about helping students recognize the full value of their skills, and giving them the confidence to communicate, and apply those skills in any professional setting. This vision was at the center of the 2nd Annual STEM Summit, Building Skills for Success, which was designed to help students connect what they learn in the classroom and laboratory to the realities of the workforce.
Andrew Gordon, a former Pixar animator known for his work on major films and now founder of the AI storytelling company EyeTell, delivered the keynote. Rather than a traditional research-based talk, Gordon guided students through the structure of storytelling while weaving in his own journey. His perspective offered the students insights on how skills developed over time can evolve into unexpected and impactful career paths. He also demonstrated how students can better communicate their work and position themselves in a competitive job market. Adding a dynamic visual element, Phil Bakelaar from the CCOM department sketched live illustrations that highlighted the core themes of the presentation.
The session culminated in the presentation of two student stories highlighting their paths into science. Working closely with Gordon, Kira Paul and Stephen Darko developed and recorded their narratives, which were then transformed into AI-animated stories and showcased during the summit. Their projects served as powerful examples of how personal experiences can be shaped into compelling and professional narratives.
Expanding on the importance of transferable skills, Mayor Deborah Mans shared how data serves as a foundation across a wide range of careers, from scientific research to public-sector leadership. Her talk highlighted how skills often developed in technical courses like data analysis, interpretation, and critical thinking can directly shape community impact. For students, this provided a powerful reminder that their training has value far beyond a single career path.
The summit’s focus on confidence and career readiness came into focus during the final session led by Gen Hinson and Koralee Grullon. This workshop challenged students to bring everything together by encouraging them to reflect on their experiences and begin shaping their own professional narratives. Whether preparing for interviews, graduate school, or networking opportunities, students were guided to think not just about what they’ve done, but how to communicate it in a way that resonates with employers and collaborators.
The 2nd Annual Building Skills for Success STEM Summit reflects an ongoing commitment by the College of Science and Mathematics to support students not only as scientists, but as emerging professionals. By intentionally integrating communication, data literacy, and career development into one cohesive experience, the college is helping students build the confidence and versatility needed to succeed, and to make a meaningful impact, wherever their paths lead.
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