Transitioning to industry can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategy, it’s entirely achievable. I’ve had the privilege of sharing my expertise through a series of educational videos hosted by AAAS Science Careers, designed to help scientists successfully navigate this transition. Whether you’re just beginning to explore industry roles or actively searching for opportunities, these sessions provide actionable insights to guide you forward.

Preparing for an Industry Career

Watch the full video here.

One of the biggest challenges scientists face is understanding how industry differs from academia. In this webinar, I discuss how to identify transferable skills, tailor your experience to industry expectations, and build a professional brand that appeals to hiring managers. I also cover the importance of networking—both online and in person—to expand your opportunities and gain industry insights. In this video you’ll learn:

  • What an industry career truly entails.
  • How to align your skills and interests with available roles.
  • Key differences between academia and industry.
  • What it means to adopt an “industry mindset.”

Assessing Your Skills

Watch the full video here.

To stand out in industry, you must first understand your own strengths. This session walks through how to assess your current skill set, pinpoint gaps, and create a plan for professional development. I also discuss effective ways to showcase your expertise in resumes and interviews, ensuring that your experience translates well to industry roles. Key takeaways from this video include:

  • Why your skills matter—regardless of how you gained them
  • Strategies for aligning your skills with job descriptions
  • The transferable skills you likely already possess
  • How to self-assess with kindness and realism

Researching Prospective Employers

Watch the full video here.

Applying to jobs blindly isn’t a strategy—it’s a gamble. This webinar focuses on how to research companies effectively, analyze job descriptions, and understand employer expectations. I share techniques for uncovering company culture, aligning your application materials with organizational goals, and making informed career decisions. In this session you’ll learn:

  • How to identify what’s important to you in a potential job and employer
  • Where to find the best sources of meaningful information
  • How to uncover unexpected insights about organizations
  • Practical tips for connecting with current and former employees

Effective Informational Interviews

Watch the full video here.

Informational interviews are a powerful tool for career exploration and networking. In this session, I provide a step-by-step guide on how to identify industry professionals, reach out with confidence, and conduct meaningful conversations that lead to valuable career insights and potential job opportunities. This video will educate you on the essentials of informal interviews, including:

  • How to define clear goals for your informational interviews
  • Strategies for identifying and connecting with the right people
  • Tips for preparing effectively to make a lasting impression
  • Steps to follow up and build strong, lasting professional relationships

Final Thoughts

Making the jump from academia to industry doesn’t happen overnight, but with the right approach, it becomes much more manageable. These AAAS Science Careers webinars offer practical, research-backed strategies to help you take that next step with confidence.

If you’re looking for personalized career guidance, I’d love to help! Feel free to contact me or explore additional career resources to support your transition.

Please note: You will need to log in or sign up for a free AAAS account to access these webinars.