Building an Innovative and Multi-Faceted Approach to University Recruiting

McMaster-Carr hires for capability over skill, so they look for talented students from all majors. Recruiters often encourage liberal arts majors to consider software positions and engineers to pursue opportunities in operations and people management, because diversity in thought, background, and experience fuel innovation. Sourcing teams leverage recruiting platforms like RippleMatch, LinkedIn, Handshake, The Muse and more. They also work with academic institutions, professional organizations, and student associations by hosting virtual events to share information and guidance for early-career job searches. Workshop topics range from resume-building to helping individuals evaluate an employer’s diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. Externships also invite students to explore McMaster-Carr’s opportunities in-depth. During this time, they meet with members of management and company leaders, learn about company business practices and department operations, and engage in shadowing, coffee chats, and panel discussions.

Crafting a Standout Candidate Experience

McMaster-Carr offers a candidate-centric experience designed for personalization and exploration. Curiosity is encouraged throughout the recruiting process. In advance of interviews, students meet with recent hires to share their interests and learn about what it’s like to work at the company. For example, they experience a virtual tour of the workplace and customer-facing website, insight into company initiatives and career paths, and a preview of interview evaluation criteria. Interviews connect students with people from different backgrounds, identities, and career experiences to help depict the breadth of interesting work students can make an impact in. Similar to the speed at which they deliver products to customers, McMaster-Carr shares hiring decisions promptly and commits to one-on-one time with recruiters and personalized resources to help students consider employment offers with confidence.

Moving the Needle on Diversity & Inclusion

McMaster-Carr is dedicated to developing and retaining diverse talent through programs designed to attract under-represented groups. Summer interns make important connections, complete impactful projects, and begin meaningful careers. Similarly, the company hosts paid externship programs to introduce students to management and technology careers. Both programs have grown and earned positive reviews from participants. A group of recent hires serve as campus ambassadors to introduce students to these opportunities, and full-time positions, by leveraging their affiliations with HBCUs and HSIs. Furthermore, McMaster-Carr attends conferences like AfroTech and partners with organizations like Make a Play Foundation and Posse to identify top talent from minority backgrounds. Employee resource groups, mentorship opportunities, equitable pay practices, racial equity curriculum, and a commitment to an inclusive culture fosters belonging among employees.