TicketsThe University of Cincinnati athletics department proudly hosted its annual Bearcats Go Pro: Career Expo and Networking event on Monday night in Fifth Third Arena.
The signature event has served as an integral part of the Student-Athlete Development Academy’s mantra: “Bearcats Go Pro: in sports, workforce, and professional or graduate school.”
This night is designed to forge meaningful connections between UC student-athletes, alumni, national partners and professionals from the vibrant Cincinnati business community. It provides student-athletes with the resources, confidence and connections to thrive in their post-collegiate careers.
Bearcats Go Pro (BGP) serves as an evening dedicated to professional growth and exploration, offering student-athletes the opportunity to engage directly with leaders across a range of industries, discover potential career paths, and identify their individual interests.
Attendees include representatives from major local and national organizations, led by title sponsor Total Quality Logistics (TQL), along with corporate partners such as Cintas, Fidelity Investments, Deloitte, DHL Express, NUCOR, Medpace, FC Cincinnati, Ticketmaster, UC Health, Cincinnati Reds, Fifth Third Bank, City of Cincinnati Human Resources, Lifetime Financial Growth, GE Aerospace, Federated Insurance, PNC Bank, and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, among others.
The event often features former student-athletes on a panel for the whole group, this year including Zach Segal (baseball) and Chloe Spitler (women's soccer).
Bearcats Go Pro featured a partnership with LinkedIn Learning through the “Level Up Your Career Game” live webinar, which educates student-athletes on leveraging LinkedIn Learning courses to enhance their career readiness. Participants also gain hands-on experience using AI Role Play to refine interview skills, earn professional certifications, and strengthen the hard and soft skills that today’s employers value most.
“Bearcats Go Pro continues to evolve as a meaningful bridge between athletics and life after sport,” said Chad Allen, Associate Athletic Director for Career Advancement & Leadership. “Our goal is to empower student-athletes to confidently navigate their professional journeys by connecting them with resources, relationships, and real-world experiences that fuel long-term success.”
Bearcats Go Pro stands as a dynamic and inclusive celebration of student-athlete development by connecting the University of Cincinnati community with professionals dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders. This annual event remains a cornerstone of UC Athletics’ ongoing commitment to supporting student-athletes in every phase of their personal and professional journeys.