Grainger Center for Professional Development

Our Mission

The mission of the Grainger Center for Professional Development is to prepare students for a successful transition from the classroom to the business world. The Center focuses on strengthening professional skills while connecting students with valuable opportunities in the business community.

Serving as a bridge between students and industry, the Grainger Center helps facilitate internships, job placements, and mentorships. By bringing business leaders to campus, supporting career preparation, and providing companies with well-prepared candidates, the Center creates meaningful connections that benefit both students and employers.

The Center serves as a valuable resource for building essential professional skills, including:

Crafting effective résumés
Conducting successful job searches
Expanding professional networks
Reviewing and refining social media presence
Strengthening interview skills
Practicing business etiquette
Developing a confident, professional demeanor

Whether you’re a student preparing for your career or a business seeking top talent, the Grainger Center for Professional Development is here to connect you—contact us today.

GRAINGER CENTER EVENTS – Fall 2026

These events, exclusively available to current University of Montevallo students, are a vital part of preparing our students to succeed beyond the classroom by building real-world professional skills.

So You Think You Might Want to… (Noon in Stephens 212)

August 31: Work in Sports Business
September 14: Work in Sales
October 5: Work in Insurance & Risk Management
November 2: Work in Government & Public Service

Business Symposium* (9:00 am – 3:00 pm Stephens and Morgan Halls, Humanities Auditorium)

September 24: Keynote Presentations, PD Sessions, Business Expo, Headshots, Career Exploration Panels

Meet the Firms (Noon-2:00 pm in Newman Commons)

September 30: Network with Accounting Firms (For Accounting Students Only)

Speed Networking* (6:30 pm in Newman Commons)

October 14: Network with Area Business Professionals

Mock Interviews* (9:00 am-12:30 pm in Grainger Center)

September 16
October 30
November 18

*REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED! Email Professor Thayer at rthayer@montevallo.edu.