Gonzaga University and Microsoft have been partners for years, and now they’re taking their collaboration to the next level. This partnership aims to create better career paths for students, improve mentorship, and shine a light on Gonzaga’s growing role in the tech industry.
For the past two decades, former Microsoft employee Arnie Mondloch (’84) has led this effort. Alumni working at Microsoft have consistently supported Gonzaga students, offering internships, hosting mock interviews, and sharing valuable career tips. Kara Hertz (’01), who helps manage alumni relations at Gonzaga, sees this ongoing support as a stepping stone for a more organized program that benefits all students.
In 2023, Gonzaga’s leadership, under President Emeritus Thayne McCulloh, began exploring how to enhance partnerships with industries. The connection with Microsoft stood out, not because of formal recruiting, but due to the genuine commitment of its alumni.
Robbie Ptazynski (’12), who works at Microsoft and chairs the partnership committee, describes this move as a transition from casual help to a more coordinated effort. “This alumni committee turns connection into action,” he explains, highlighting the commitment to prepare students for careers in tech.
- Career and talent development
- Alumni engagement and networking
- Strategic collaboration and growth
- Increasing visibility for the Microsoft-Gonzaga connection
These pillars lay the groundwork to strengthen the student career pipeline and boost alumni involvement. This foundation relies on those who have been supporting students for years.
Today, students are looking for real career opportunities and mentorship after graduation, especially during this time when rising tuition and a volatile job market make them question the value of a degree. The partnership between Gonzaga and Microsoft offers a clear way to bridge the gap between education and industry.
Kaitlin Beller (’09), now a senior product marketing manager at Microsoft, shares her experience. She studied communications and found her education applicable beyond just technical skills. “Microsoft doesn’t only hire people with tech backgrounds. It looks for learners who communicate well and adapt swiftly to change,” she says. She emphasizes how crucial it is for students to understand the expectations and opportunities in tech roles.
Don Campbell (’92, ’93 MBA), a senior director at Microsoft, echoes this sentiment. He wishes he had access to such resources during his time at Gonzaga. “Having connections to major companies is vital for students,” he adds.
Ayla McKorkle (’21), a product manager at Microsoft, agrees that understanding current tech trends is vital. She notes that the partnership will help ensure students are well-prepared for the fast-paced tech industry, emphasizing the importance of staying updated on innovations, especially in areas like artificial intelligence.
For alumni like Connor Flanagan (’13), the partnership is personal. He believes Gonzaga students bring unique qualities to Microsoft, including determination and strong work ethics. “There’s a level of trust associated with a Zag,” he states.
The committee aims to create an ongoing engagement model, meaning students will have consistent support rather than just annual events. “If we get this right, we can help students build meaningful careers and keep alumni connected,” Ptazynski says.
This partnership is a powerful example of how alumni can uplift one another. It not only adds value to a Gonzaga degree but also opens doors that might otherwise stay closed. “I find it inspiring to think I might connect with a future co-worker who is just starting their journey,” Beller reflects.
By fostering connections between students and industry leaders, Gonzaga and Microsoft are paving the way for a brighter future for graduates.
Learn more about this partnership through reputable sources like [Gonzaga University](https://www.gonzaga.edu) and [Microsoft](https://www.microsoft.com/en-us). The collaboration signifies a hope-filled response to the challenges facing higher education today.
Source link
Microsoft, Gonzaga, Zags, Career Outcomes
