On this episode of Our Communiversity, host Dr. Ramon Stuart sits down with Susan Wood, Director of Career and Professional Development at WVU Tech, to explore what it truly means to connect education with opportunity. Dr. Stuart opens with his belief that the community is the university and the university is the community, setting the tone for a powerful conversation about purpose, partnership, and preparing students not just to graduate, but to thrive right here in Southern West Virginia.

Susan shares her personal journey from Summers County to WVU Tech, reflecting on the life experiences that shaped her approach to helping students succeed. From working at McDonald’s to recruiting in the healthcare field and serving with the Girl Scouts, she explains how communication, customer service, and understanding transferable skills all play a role in guiding students today. Her passion is clear as she describes meeting students from their very first campus visit, helping them clarify their goals, build confidence, and discover paths they may never have imagined for themselves.

The conversation also dives into the real work of career and professional development at Tech. Susan discusses professional etiquette dinners, resume building, interview preparation, internship partnerships, and the importance of teaching students how to confidently “sell” themselves in a professional setting. With strong ties to local employers and community partners, her mission is simple but powerful: keep talent in West Virginia and ensure that when Golden Bears walk across the stage, they are stepping into meaningful careers. This episode highlights how WVU Tech, through leaders like Susan Wood, is building brighter futures for students and for the region as a whole.

Phone Number: (304) 929-1234