STEM Student Finds Job, Mentorship Opportunity Through Ivy+ Career Link’s Talent Connection

Aryaija Dodson, an electronics and computer technology student at Ivy Tech Indianapolis, launched her professional career with the help of the College’s Ivy+ Career Link’s Talent Connection team—a resource she credits for connecting her with a job at OmniSite and inspiring her to mentor young students in robotics.

Dodson, who is set to graduate in spring 2026, initially enrolled at Ivy Tech in 2019 with plans to pursue accounting. However, she soon realized her passion lay in hands-on work with electronics. 

“I didn’t want to just sit at a desk all day, behind a computer screen,” Dodson said. “I figured electronics would be a little more interesting. I like to see how things function, and I wanted to work with my hands, troubleshooting electrical units.”

One of the many resources available to Ivy Tech students and alumni is establishing a connection with a Talent Connection Manager.  

“Ms. Jenny [Trusler] is my career coach, so she reaches out every so often about things going on – like career fairs and different events, to get your resume on track and such,” Dodson explained. “One day, I was like ‘OK, I need a new job.’ So, I reached out to her and said, ‘Hey, can you help me find a job? And she did.’”

Together, they updated Dodson’s resume. Within a month, Trusler – a Talent Connection Manager – identified an opening at OmniSite for a product tester. Dodson applied and was hired.

“I was happy to get the job because it aligns more with my degree than my previous job,” she said.

Dodson has worked at OmniSite for two years now, testing wastewater pumps and ensuring their electrical systems function properly—a role that aligns with her hands-on learning style. 

The job has also opened doors beyond the workplace. The owner of OmniSite encouraged her to lead a robotics club at Concord Neighborhood Center, where she now mentors elementary students twice a week. Using VEX Go Kits, Dodson teaches children in grades third through fifth how to build robots with motors. 

“It’s rewarding to see them enjoy STEM,” she said. “Some of these kids are on their third robot—they’re farther along than I am!”

Dodson emphasized the value of Ivy Tech’s resources and shared thaattendsoes tf the careerfairs, and takes advantage of the free tutoring services. 

"[Ivy Tech taught me] basic fundamentals of how electronics work,” Dodson said. “The fundamentals you learn here translate to real life, in your everyday life at home and your job."

While Dodson now tests industrial equipment, her long-term goal after graduating leans toward medical technology.

“There are so many different things you can do in a STEM career,” Dodson said, excited for what lies ahead in her career. “I’d love to work on medical electrical equipment someday.”

Dodson encourages other students to take advantage of Ivy Tech’s career services. She says Trusler has been the “most valuable resource” to her during her time at Ivy Tech Indy. 

"She's always letting me know of different opportunities. We typically check up on each other to update my resume, and she'll let me know about all the career fairs and different events happening around the school,” Dodson said. “I also like that she reassures me that I can reach out if I have anything I want to discuss.” 

Ivy Tech’s talent connection team is ready to help students like Dodson launch their careers. Whether it’s resume building, job placement, or networking opportunities, these resources are just a click away. If you’re a student, alum, or employer, visit Ivy Tech’s Ivy+ Career Link to learn more.