Benefits
![UWF Executive Mentor Program mentor and student mentee posing for a photo in professional attire.](/media/university-of-west-florida/offices/workforce-development/images/Employer-Benefits-Banner-2024-July-v2.jpg)
Employer benefits of the UWF Talent Catalyst program.
Expand Your Talent Pool
- Early Access to Students: Gain access to students earlier in their academic careers.
- Shape the Future: Contribute to developing your future workforce by offering paid part-time work experience to students and teaching them how to work your company’s way.
![UWF graduate in cap and gown attire holding a diploma tube in front of the UWF water tower.](/media/university-of-west-florida/offices/workforce-development/images/Employer-Benefits-Content-2024-July.jpg)
Streamlined Hiring & Recruiting
- Effortless Hiring: Let UWF assist with entry-level hiring, reducing your recruitment efforts.
- Campus-Wide Visibility: Get in front of the right students in the right classrooms and the right student organizations.
Enhanced Employee Retention & Productivity
- Long-Term Commitment: Students working part-time for more than one year are more likely to stay long-term, lowering turnover expenses.
- Local Retention: Most UWF graduates stay local if jobs are available, ensuring ready talent.
- Peak Performance: Hire students part-time so they are closer to peak performance when transitioning to full-time.
- Cost Savings: Cover one full-time role with two part-time students, reducing financial outlays and federally mandated benefits.
Professional Development Learning Community & Mentorship
- Essential Professional Skills Training: Students are workforce-ready and have crucial professional skills such as communicating effectively, professionalism, teamwork, and collaboration before graduating.
- Mentorship Program: Each student is paired with a mentor from your company.
As Easy as 1-2-3
- Sign Agreement: Join the employer Talent Catalyst program.
- Meet and Interview: Conduct interviews with potential candidates that fit your job description.
- Onboard & Support: Onboard employees and provide a mentor for each student, with ongoing support from UWF.
Become a Strategic Business Partner
Interested in signing up as a strategic business partner? Get started today by contacting the Office of Workforce Development workforcedevelopment@uwf.edu or 850.474.2041.