Food Industry Event Preparation Workshop Series
Maximize Your Success at IFT Chicago & EATS 2025
Illinois Tech Career Services presents a specialized workshop series designed to help Scarlet Hawks excel at major food industry events. Learn proven strategies for networking, presenting yourself professionally, and converting expo connections into career opportunities.
Workshop 1: Mastering Trade Show Networking
Date: October 14, 2025 | Time: 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Location: Hermann Hall, Room 210
Topics Covered:
• Crafting your 30-second elevator pitch
• Professional etiquette at industry events
• Strategic booth approach techniques
• Follow-up strategies that get responses
• LinkedIn connection best practices
Workshop 2: Food Industry Resume Excellence
Date: October 28, 2025 | Time: 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Location: Career Services Office, Hermann Hall 202
Topics Covered:
• Industry-specific keywords and terminology
• Highlighting relevant IIT coursework and projects
• Quantifying lab and research experience
• Tailoring resumes for different food industry sectors
• ATS optimization for online applications
Workshop 3: Professional Presence & First Impressions
Date: November 3, 2025 | Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Location: MTCC Auditorium
Topics Covered:
• Trade show professional attire guidelines
• Business card design and etiquette
• Digital portfolio presentation
• Body language and confidence building
• Cultural awareness in global industry settings
Special Illinois Tech Resources
- Professional Attire: Career Closet available for students needing business attire
- Business Cards: Free printing service through Career Services
- Resume Printing: High-quality resume printing for events
- Mock Networking: Practice sessions with IIT alumni in food industry
- LinkedIn Headshots: Professional photography sessions available
RSVP Required: Limited to 30 students per workshop
Can’t attend in person? Virtual options available – email careers@iit.edu
Workshop attendance counts toward Elevate professional development hours