Keywords

FinTech, entrepreneurship, career development, technical skills, VR, eSports, relocation, opportunities, startup experience, legacy

Summary

In this episode of the Legacy Podcast, Seth Spencer interviews Andre Ripley, a 2019 graduate of Florida Poly, who shares his journey from graduation to his current role as a staff technical relationship manager at Galileo Financial Technologies. Andre discusses his transition from software engineering to a more client-facing role, the importance of entrepreneurial experience in career advancement, and the impact of relocation on his perspective. He also delves into the challenges faced in the VR and eSports industry, emerging trends in FinTech, and concludes with a discussion on legacy and the impact one leaves behind.

Takeaways

• Life after graduation can be hectic but rewarding.
• Utah is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Career transitions can lead to fulfilling roles.
• Entrepreneurial experience is valuable in corporate settings.
• Technical backgrounds can accelerate career advancement.
• Understanding client needs is crucial in tech roles.
• Relocation can broaden perspectives on opportunities.
• The VR and eSports industry presents unique challenges.
• Emerging technologies in FinTech are exciting.
• Legacy is about the impact you leave behind.

Sound bites

"You're jack of all trades, master of none."

"I think AI will be where the big leaps are."

"Legacy means the impact you leave behind."

Song Recommendation Playlist

Keywords

Florida Poly, alumni, career milestones, sourcing manager, supply chain, relationships, imposter syndrome, advice for graduates, legacy

Summary

In this episode of the Legacy Podcast, host Seth Spencer sits down with Florida Poly graduate Maggie Cortez to discuss her journey post-graduation, including significant life milestones such as marriage and homeownership. Maggie shares insights into her role as a Sourcing and Contracts Manager at Publix, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building and communication in her work. She reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating supply chain challenges, and offers valuable advice for current students. The conversation concludes with Maggie's thoughts on legacy and the impact she hopes to leave in her professional life.

Takeaways

• Maggie feels a strong connection to Florida Poly, describing it as a second home.
• She achieved significant milestones shortly after graduation, including marriage and homeownership.
• Setting goals has been crucial for balancing her personal and professional life.
• Building relationships is key in her role at Publix, which involves managing vendor relationships.
• Maggie credits her education at Florida Poly for preparing her for her career.
• She emphasizes the importance of alignment in business relationships and projects.
• Overcoming imposter syndrome has been a journey for her, aided by a supportive team.
• Maggie believes in the importance of communication and negotiation in her role.
• She advises students to get comfortable talking to people and engaging in professional environments.
• Maggie's legacy goal is to treat people well and leave them feeling better.

Sound bites

"It feels good to be back."

"I graduated, then bought a home."

"If you don't ask, you don't get."

Summary

In this episode of the Legacy Podcast, Seth Spencer interviews Florida Poly alumnus Albert Corey, who shares his journey from studying computer science to working as an infrastructure engineer in the Space Force sector. Albert discusses the impact of fatherhood on his life, his educational experiences at Florida Poly, and the importance of adaptability in the fast-paced tech industry. He also highlights his role in community engagement through a venture aimed at helping students and veterans interested in the defense space. The conversation concludes with Albert's advice for current students and reflections on his professional legacy.

Takeaways

• Fatherhood has significantly increased my patience.
• I transitioned from wanting to be in the medical field to computer science.
• My career has evolved through various roles in tech.
• I build software tools for detecting anomalies in space.
• Learning how to learn is crucial in a changing industry.
• My projects have had real-world impacts, including saving lives.
• Staying current in technology requires finding your niche.
• Capstone projects can help students stand out in their careers.
• Networking and community engagement are vital for career growth.
• I aim to help students and veterans navigate the defense space.

Sound bites

"Fatherhood has made me more patient."

"I fell in love with computer science."

"My projects have saved lives."

Keywords

Florida Poly, alumni, software development, fintech, career growth, personal finance, Society of Women Engineers, STEM education, networking, legacy

Summary

In this episode of the Legacy podcast, host Seth Spencer interviews Ashton Olney, a 2019 graduate of Florida Poly, who shares her journey as a software developer at FIS, a fintech company. Ashton discusses her experiences in the tech industry, the importance of networking, and her involvement in the Society of Women Engineers. She reflects on her educational background, the impact of community in STEM, and her aspirations for the future, emphasizing the significance of personal growth and empowerment in one's career.

Takeaways

• Ashton has been with FIS since graduating in 2019.
• Her role involves working on multiple projects, fostering growth.
• Networking within her company has opened new opportunities.
• The transition program at FIS helped her gain confidence.
• She initially had no interest in fintech but found it rewarding.
• Ashton's role has evolved, leading to discussions about promotions.
• Working in fintech gives her insight into personal finance.
• She enjoys contributing to technology that aids everyday financial transactions.
• Involvement in SWE provided a supportive community during her studies.
• Ashton encourages women to pursue careers in STEM and seek mentorship.

Sound bites

"It's always changing a lot of development."

"I think I found where I needed to be."

"It's never too late to pivot."

Summary

In this episode of the Legacy Podcast, host Seth interviews Florida Poly alumnus Josh Frost, the owner of Fine Line Machine. Josh shares his journey from a mechanical engineering student to a successful business owner in the aerospace and defense industry. He discusses the challenges he faced in starting his company, the importance of leveraging education and relationships, and the soft skills necessary for success. Josh emphasizes the value of pursuing one's passions and building a legacy through impactful work.

Takeaways

• Josh Frost is the owner of Fine Line Machine, specializing in aerospace and defense components.
• His journey from student to business owner was fueled by a passion for engineering.
• The leap into entrepreneurship was inspired by seeing others succeed.
• Overcoming financial hurdles was a significant challenge in starting his business.
• Education and relationships played a crucial role in his success.
• Soft skills like leadership and communication are essential for running a business.
• Josh encourages students to leverage their degrees and connections.
• Hands-on experiences in college helped shape his problem-solving skills.
• Building a legacy involves creating opportunities for others in the industry.
• Josh aims to grow Fine Line Machine to support various industries, including aerospace.

Keywords

Florida Poly, Madi Yonash, women's sports, community building, data analytics, networking, student leadership, professional development, alumni relations, personal growth

Summary

In this episode of the Legacy podcast, Seth Spencer interviews Maddie Yonash, a Florida Poly alumna who graduated in 2024 with a major in business analytics. Maddie shares her journey of founding women's sports teams at Florida Poly, her experiences as a presidential ambassador, and the importance of community in higher education. She discusses her transition from student life to professional life at BRG, where she works in healthcare data analytics. Maddie reflects on pivotal projects that shaped her career, the significance of networking, and how to create lasting impact on campus. The conversation also touches on personal insights, including her favorite music and book recommendations.

Takeaways

• Madi graduated from Florida Poly in 2024 with a major in business analytics.
• She founded women's powerlifting and soccer teams at Florida Poly.
• Community is crucial for student success and retention in higher education.
• Madi learned the importance of networking through her roles as an ambassador.
• Transitioning from student life to professional life requires time management skills.
• Her pivotal project involved analyzing her own mood data for a class.
• Building authentic connections is key to networking.
• Creating lasting impact involves empowering future leaders.
• Madi emphasizes the importance of being present in community building.
• She enjoys sharing recommendations and connecting with others.

Keywords

Florida Poly, Legacy Podcast, Dr. Anita Silwal, STEM education, community development, public health, mental health, AI, machine learning, alumni stories

Summary

In this episode of the Legacy Podcast, Dr. Anita Silwal shares her remarkable journey from a child actor in Nepal to a prominent figure in public health and community development. She discusses her transition to STEM education, the challenges of balancing work and studies, and her commitment to community engagement. Dr. Silwal also reflects on her decision to pursue a PhD in public health, driven by personal experiences and a desire to make a meaningful impact in mental health and substance use. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of citizen participation in community development and the potential of AI and machine learning in public health.

Takeaways

• Dr. Silwal transitioned from acting to public health to make a difference.
• Her early experiences in Nepal shaped her desire to be a policymaker.
• Balancing work and education was a significant challenge during her studies.
• Community engagement is essential for meaningful development.
• Dr. Silwal started a nonprofit focused on women's health education.
• The COVID-19 pandemic influenced her decision to pursue a PhD.
• Personal loss motivated her focus on mental health and substance use.
• AI and machine learning can enhance public health initiatives.
• Citizen participation is crucial for effective community development.
• Dr. Silwal believes every life is worth living and seeks to save lives.

Sound bites

"I wanted to be a policymaker."

"Every life is worth living."

"I want to help save lives."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Legacy Podcast

01:14 Dr. Anita Silwal's Unique Journey

06:41 Transitioning to STEM Education

11:54 Balancing Work and Education

20:43 Community Engagement and Development

25:17 Pursuing a PhD in Public Health

34:19 Legacy and Impact in Public Health

In this episode of the Legacy Podcast, we explore the journey of Natalie Thompson, a Florida Poly alumna who graduated in 2019 with a degree in data analytics. Natalie shares her experiences at Florida Polytechnic University, her career path, and her passion for empowering women in STEM through her new podcast, 'Unlocking Your Potential.' She emphasizes the importance of networking, confidence, and following one's passion in navigating a successful career in the tech industry.

Takeaways

• ​Natalie graduated from Florida Poly in 2019 with a degree in data analytics.
• ​She currently works as an Agile Delivery Manager at EA Sports.
• ​Her journey at Florida Poly included changing majors and participating in various clubs.
• ​Networking is crucial for career growth and opportunities.
• ​Natalie started a podcast to empower women in STEM.
• ​She emphasizes the importance of confidence in professional settings.
• ​Professors at Florida Poly are supportive and eager to help students.
• ​Internships played a significant role in her career development.
• ​AI is a key focus in her current role in security engineering.
• ​Natalie aims to help others unlock their potential through her podcast.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Legacy Podcast

01:18 Natalie Thompson: A Journey in Data Analytics

03:44 Navigating Florida Poly: Early Experiences

07:55 Building Community at Florida Poly

12:37 Career Path: Internships and Early Roles

17:14 Unlocking Your Potential: Natalie's Podcast

22:58 Challenges and Joys of Podcasting

28:46 Advice for Future STEM Students

39:07 Legacy and Impact of the Podcast