I Came to Knoxville, TN, for College and Stayed for My Career
Two UT grads share why staying in Knoxville has been great for their careers.
Looking for a prime spot to start your career? Consider Knoxville, TN. This prosperous city, which is known for its superb outdoor recreation, award-winning restaurants and historical sites, is also home to a variety of successful industries, including health, information technology, entertainment, sustainability, and finance and investment. Plus, several local businesses have made the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing U.S. companies. Examples include StoragePug, a self-storage software provider; Avertium, a cyber-fusion company; Axle Logistics, a logistics company; and ’58 Foundations & Waterproofing, a foundation repair company. Combined, these assets make Knoxville a dynamic market for college grads. In fact, many students who attend school here choose to stay in the region to start their careers.
Two of these individuals are Amie Cohorst, a native of Lebanon, TN, who graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UT) in 2011; and Thomas Egan, from Jackson, TN, who earned a master’s degree in business analytics from UT in 2014.
Livability sat down with them to find out what motivated them to make Knoxville their home postgrad, and why it has been a great decision for their careers. Here’s what they had to say:
Both of you landed jobs in Knoxville postgrad. How did your college experience prepare you for the industry you are in now?
Amie: I am currently thriving in the transportation and logistics industry as a corporate recruiter at Axle Logistics. My psychology degree has been an unexpected, yet powerful asset in this field, equipping me with essential interpersonal skills and the ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. My involvement with campus activities not only polished my networking skills, but also helped me appreciate the value of forging meaningful connections. Remarkably, I secured my role at Axle Logistics by meeting Ali Fraley at a University of Tennessee career fair in 2016, which highlights the significance of networking and seizing opportunities.
Thomas: I’m currently a data scientist with U.S. Cellular. Between the material I learned at UT and an internship, I was well prepared for the work. I learned how to clean and manipulate data, work with nontechnical teams, do meaningful statistical analysis, and present the results in an understandable way. The university has an amazing network to tap into for opportunities that might be unavailable to others outside the network. I was able to get a job at a startup as a data scientist because of relationships I fostered at the Knoxville Entrepreneur Center. The job was never posted online, and I wouldn’t have heard of it otherwise.
After graduation, what made you decide to stay in Knoxville? Did UT assist with job placement?
Amie: Post college, I learned about the possibility of completing a year of service through AmeriCorps through Sally Parrish, one of my mentors. Additionally, I discovered potential career opportunities through 21st Mortgage at a University of Tennessee career fair. The Knoxville Chamber’s website also provides insight into companies headquartered in the region. My journey began by exploring these avenues, and I am proof that Knoxville hosts myriad professional possibilities.
Thomas: When I graduated, data science was still in its nascent stage, so opportunities were sparse. Years later, there is an abundance of offerings, both locally and remotely. Data science has become a staple at most companies, and the market for good talent is still very competitive. But it’s bigger than that; the people, opportunities and extracurricular activities have all kept me here.
How have you both grown in your careers?
Amie: My career is flourishing, thanks to the exceptional mentors and connections I’ve cultivated. The three remarkable companies I’ve worked with have actively nurtured my personal and professional growth, and I’m so appreciative of Knoxville’s support of young professionals.
Thomas: As of now, my career is going really well. I am a senior data scientist for a telecom company and have grown to become an expert in my field through the years. Being a part of Knoxville’s networking groups has opened numerous doors for me, and now, I’m able to help others further their careers. The great thing about Knoxville is that I have options because of the abundance of opportunities here.
How have you made professional connections in Knoxville?
Amie: I’ve strategically built a robust network through various channels. My involvement with Young Professionals of Knoxville (YPK) and participation on boards like the United Way of Greater Knoxville and Dogwood Arts has facilitated connections with like-minded individuals. Engaging in committees and leveraging my role has further broadened my professional reach. Notably, my current position enables me to foster valuable connections and even find exceptional talent for Axle Logistics.
Thomas: Through YPK, I’ve been able to attend events with prominent people like the mayor. Through the South Knoxville Investors Group, I’ve met successful people in the real estate industry, and through my involvement in neighborhood groups and the Neighborhood Advisory Council, I’ve been able to develop relationships with city leaders, local investors and businesspeople. In larger cities, I would not have as many chances to meet city leaders and become involved in initiatives. I also invest in real estate on the side and view Knoxville and the surrounding cities as one of the best markets in the country for that.
Why do you recommend other college grads stay in Knoxville?
Amie: Knoxville presents an ideal blend of attributes that cater to diverse interests and lifestyles. The calendar is filled with vibrant festivals, offering a constant stream of entertainment and cultural engagement. Sports enthusiasts can rally behind the Tennessee Vols, revel in the construction of a new baseball stadium for the Tennessee Smokies, and enjoy hockey with the Knoxville Ice Bears, along with a roller derby team (Hard Knox Roller Derby). The city’s thriving arts and culture scene complements its opportunities for networking and community involvement. Knoxville is a city that fosters personal and professional growth while embracing a rich tapestry of experiences.
Thomas: Although I travel often, I always enjoy coming back to the culture and people of Knoxville. This city is still in its early stages of growth, but I feel there has been a culture shift toward living in midsize, less-populated cities that offer a lower cost of living and plenty of outdoor activities close to the city center. I believe Knoxville will grow exponentially in the coming years, and it’s the perfect time for recent graduates to get in on the ground floor of what Knoxville will become.
This article was sponsored by the Knoxville Chamber. Learn more about the amazing quality of life Knoxville offers at LifeRedefined.com.
