Industry Partners
Engagement Opportunities
Minnesota Carlson’s Work and Organizations Department invites individuals and organizations to actively engage with our students and faculty. Explore the outreach initiatives below to collaborate, contribute real‑world challenges, and create impactful learning experiences.
Leadership Lab
Minnesota Carlson Leadership Lab connects Carlson undergraduates with organizations to address real‑world leadership challenges through high‑impact, team‑based projects. Organizations benefit from fresh thinking, data‑informed recommendations, and practical solutions delivered by students trained to lead with confidence, accountability, and curiosity. By partnering with Leadership In Action, companies gain meaningful project support while helping develop the next generation of agile, values‑driven leaders. Please contact Sarah Wojnicki Smith for more information.
MHRIR Capstone Partner
The Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations (MHRIR) Experiential Learning Capstone partners with organizations to address real organizational and HR challenges through applied, project‑based collaboration. Companies engage MHRIR students as strategic consultants, gaining fresh perspective, structured analysis, and faculty‑guided recommendations—making it a high‑impact way to advance business priorities while shaping the next generation of HR leaders. Email [email protected] if you are interested in partnering with this course.
Center for Human Resources and Labor Studies (CHRLS) Advisory Board
The CHRLS Advisory Board brings together senior HR executives from leading organizations to influence teaching and research at Minnesota Carlson. Members gain exclusive access to a high‑caliber network of top industry leaders, cutting‑edge academic insight, and meaningful opportunities to elevate their impact—sharing real‑world insight while shaping the next generation of HR talent.
Alumni Board and Association
The CHRLS Alumni Association fuels leadership in human resources and labor relations through dynamic learning, meaningful connections, and exclusive access to CHRLS resources. Led by an engaged Alumni Board, the association brings human resources professionals together to grow careers, expand networks, and strengthen ties to Minnesota Carlson, the University of Minnesota, and the broader community.
CHRLS Mentorship Program
Learn, Evolve, Thrive with Mentorship through the University of Minnesota Master of Human Resources & Industrial Relations Mentorship Program, which connects current students with experienced alumni for meaningful professional relationships. Designed to support academic and career growth, the program offers personalized guidance, networking opportunities, and real‑world insights that help students confidently navigate the HR field.