Trine hosts Japanese companies at career fair

Trine University hosted its first Japanese Company Career Fair in the Jim and Joan Bock Center for Innovation and Biomedical Engineering on Feb. 26.

The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) attended and sponsored the event, along with Japanese-owned companies Enkei America, II Stanley, Kimura Foundry America, Michigan Automotive Compressor Incorporation (MACI), Oji Intertech, Omron, Right Way Fasteners, SEAVAC, Subaru, Sullair and TRIN – Tokai Rika Indiana.

“Global investment and international partnerships play an increasingly important role in the economic health of our region and our nation,” said Earl D. Brooks II, Ph.D., Trine University president. “This event gives Trine University students the opportunity to meet and perhaps work for companies they may not otherwise have been able to contact, and it exposes a wider range of corporations to Trine graduates who have been well-equipped with the skills to succeed, lead and serve.”

Targeted toward engineering and business majors, the event drew more than 50 Trine students. Students said they appreciated the smaller size of the fair, which allowed for better interactions with employers.

“We are thrilled to have hosted the first Japanese Company Career Fair not only at Trine, but in the State of Indiana (sponsored by JETRO),” said Mari McHenry, director of international community services.  “Many people do not realize that there are over 100 companies in the state of Indiana alone that are owned by Japanese companies.  We hope this opportunity will give students exposure to the idea of working for international companies in the future, and are pleased to know that the recruiters who participated in the event have met exceptional candidates.”

One company commented, “It was amazing. These were the best students of my career.” Another noted they enjoyed the format and said, “Campus is beautiful. We learned so much about Trine.” 

“We at JETRO Chicago are honored to have partnered with Trine University to organize our first such program in the state of Indiana,” said Ralph Inforzato, JETRO CEO. “Trine's prowess from engineering and business faculty with deep industry experience, and its precious students form a strong foundation for the economic well-being of Northeast Indiana and the Tri-State region. JETRO Chicago and all Japanese companies are welcome at Trine University: It's a powerful message we very much respect from President Brooks, Dean Ryan Overton, Dean Cat Benson, Jason Blume, executive director, Trine Innovation 1, and Mari McHenry, director of international community services.” 

“We are always excited to connect the university and its students with new companies for potential partnerships, internships and employment opportunities,” said Blume. “We look forward to additional opportunities to work with JETRO Chicago to benefit its members, the university, and our region.”

The university plans to hold the Japanese Company Career Fair annually.