Last year at the NACE conference, members talked about “company visits” and whether they were like controversial financial aid “kickbacks.” Some were on campuses where they were told they could not go on a company visit. Employers logically want to show their organization in its “natural habitat.” When I’ve had the opportunity to visit an employer, I obviously learn about that specific organization. But I also think it helps me be more effective with students – “this is what it looks to be an industrial engineer or account representative.” I also think it helps me better understand the industry – “so these are issues that face the trucking industry.” Then I understand more about competitors and all of those industries that are affected by changes in one industry. Our employer visits have included gracious hosts and maybe lunch. But we were not getting huge dollars or expensive gifts with implied promises to deliver students.
I truly wish I had more opportunities to get out into the “real-world.” We try and get staff out to do some on-site visits. But it becomes a chicken-egg thing; if some campuses prohibit company visits then companies won’t allow campuses to visit. And I would hate to have those opportunities gone. I’m intrigued by those organizations that allow you to “try out” a different career for a few days. I love my job, but am glad I had the chance to be in the 18-wheeler simulator, to see the technology center of a railroad, and to tour a facility that makes onion rings, mozzarella sticks, and jalapeño poppers.
Chris Timm, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Principles for Professional Practice Committee Chair
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