More than 450 Clemson University students who are on the cusp of deciding which engineering major to pursue gathered in Hendrix Student Center on March 24 for Major Discovery Night, giving them access to about 120 industry leaders, faculty and staff who stood ready to answer their questions and offer guidance.
The annual Major Discovery Night gives first-year and transfer students a chance to meet with professionals who have direct industry experience across a wide range of engineering disciplines.
Organizers said the event was a resounding success, that it marked the program’s 12th consecutive year and that it will continue to be held annually.
Joe Watkins, chair of the Department of General Engineering, said Major Discovery Night catches students at a crucial juncture in their journeys from the classroom to the workforce.
“Major Discovery Night is our key annual opportunity to connect students with the people and perspectives that shape engineering careers,” he said. “These conversations with Clemson engineering alumni and industry leaders help students explore options, ask meaningful questions, and make confident decisions about their major during this final window before April registration.”
Clemson students who want to become engineers begin their studies in General Engineering, where they complete foundational courses such as chemistry, physics, and calculus, along with an introductory engineering course that introduces core engineering principles, problem-solving approaches, and the emerging role of artificial intelligence in modern engineering practice. Students then decide on a more specific engineering discipline before their sophomore year.
Faculty and staff from each of Clemson’s undergraduate engineering departments, including General Engineering, were on hand at Major Discovery Night to answer questions about the curriculum and their experiences as engineers in the field.
Dozens of prominent companies specializing in areas ranging from transportation, energy and health innovation to advanced materials, sustainable infrastructure and advanced manufacturing have sent representatives to the event.
For industry partners, Major Discovery Night offers an opportunity to engage with a large, motivated pool of early-stage engineering students, helping them build relationships, increase visibility, and play an active role in shaping Clemson’s future workforce.
Anand Gramopadhye, dean of the College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences, said Major Discovery Night and other events that connect students with industry reflect Clemson’s commitment to widening the talent pipeline.
“Major Discovery Night exemplifies how we bring education and industry together in ways that benefit both our students and our partners,” he said. “Events like this not only help students make informed decisions, but also ensure our graduates are aligned with the needs of the engineering workforce.”
