Wilson College Panel Shares Real-World Hiring Insights

Wilson College hosted an engaging panel discussion on modern hiring practices as part of its Health Sciences and Business Programs Strategic Seminar Series on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Professionals from healthcare, human resources, education, business consulting, and recreation management came together to offer candid advice on how to stand out in today’s competitive job market.

Image

The conversation centered on what employers need to see beyond what appears on a résumé. While technical skills matter, panelists emphasized that the interview process is where they could see a candidate’s ability to collaborate with peers or adapt to different daily situations.  “A résumé does not tell me how they’re going to do working with colleagues, students, community members, and parents,” said Tina Clever, human resources director for the Chambersburg Area School District.

Panelists encouraged those looking for work to practice telling their stories, whether through mock interviews, peer feedback, or even AI tools that help generate interview questions. The interview is where hiring managers make sure the individual is authentic and willing to make an investment in the company or position.  They cautioned against relying on AI to write résumés or cover letters, urging applicants to personalize everything they submit.

Image

Panelists urged students to pursue internships early—and more than one if possible—using those experiences to build skills, confidence, and professional connections. Internships, they said, are often extended job interviews. “When you complete an internship or externship program, employers really get to know you and connect with you,” said Lindsey Kearns, nurse manager for WellSpan Chambersburg. “And I would much rather hire someone who I know is a good fit for the unit, somebody who's willing to learn, who's ready to dive in.”

Networking, both in professional spaces and among peers, was another recurring theme. Students were encouraged to join LinkedIn, attend local events, and get comfortable with uncomfortable situations. “You never know who's watching, who you might have an impact on, and when that's going to come back around,” said Heather Hockenberry, executive coach and business consultant with Hockenberry Management Consulting. 

Image

The discussion closed with panelists reminding students that job searching is a two-way process. Candidates should evaluate organizations just as thoughtfully as organizations evaluate them. Above all, they encouraged students to stay curious, stay open, and keep stretching themselves toward their goals.

Panelists participating in this event included a diverse group of professionals with expertise across healthcare, human resources, executive coaching, business management, and organizational leadership: 

• Heather Hockenberry, MA, PCC, executive coach and business consultant, Hockenberry Management Consulting.
• Julie Redding, CPRE, CPSI, general manager, Hagerstown Field House, and owner of RecSource, LLC.
• Jeff Rock, MA, LTC U.S. Army, extensive business experience as senior manager, chief of staff, and CEO, business advisor, and adjunct business instructor.
• Lindsey Kearns MSN, RN, nurse manager, WellSpan Chambersburg.
• Amos McCoy, CEO McCoy Leadership and Consulting, LLC, and certified Maxwell Leadership coach and trainer.
• Tina Clever, BS, PHR, human resources director, Chambersburg Area School District.

Image

This event was the third in the Wilson College Strategic Seminar Series. The sessions are held once per semester with the next event being planned for fall 2026.