TIP Student Assistant Professional (Team Innovation Projects)

Role Summary

The TIP Student Assistant Professional is a high-impact leadership position designed for an exceptional student to play an integral role in the growth of the Team Innovation Project (TIP) program. This is not a standard administrative role; it is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in program management, external corporate relations, and entrepreneurial leadership. The Student Assistant Professional will act as a strategic partner to the Director, helping to transform TIP into a self-sustaining, premier innovation program.

Key Responsibilities

1. Program Strategy and Development

• Collaborate on the design and execution of high-level strategies to build a self-sustaining TIP ecosystem.
• Conduct market research to identify and engage potential corporate sponsors and industry partners.
• Contribute to the program’s long-term growth roadmap and sustainability model.

2. External Representation and Partnerships

• Drive the sales and business development pipeline by identifying, qualifying, and cultivating corporate prospects.
• Manage and nurture existing relationships to ensure long-term program engagement.
• Serve as a primary ambassador for the TIP program to external stakeholders.
• Represent Missouri S&T at key networking events, including the Miner Mingle.
• Participate in off-site business meetings with corporate partners (travel required; expenses reimbursed).

3. Internal Coordination and Operations

• Provide leadership and oversight to student teams working on TIP’s structural components.
• Ensure all project milestones are aligned, effectively communicated, and met on schedule.
• Streamline internal workflows to improve program efficiency.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Current undergraduate or graduate student at Missouri S&T in good academic standing.
• Must meet the minimum enrollment credit hour requirements for student employment as defined by university policy.
• Open to all disciplines: While an MBA or business background is advantageous, we strongly encourage students from Engineering, Science, and other technical fields who have an interest in the business of innovation to apply.
• Demonstrated leadership experience and a proactive, "owner" mindset.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate professionally with corporate executives and faculty.
• An entrepreneurial spirit and a genuine interest in innovation, startups, and economic development.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple, diverse responsibilities.
• Willingness to travel for business meetings and regional events.

Professional Development & Benefits

• Direct Mentorship: Work closely with the Director of Corporate Partnerships on high-level university initiatives.
• Networking: Build a professional network with industry leaders, S&T alumni, and successful entrepreneurs.
• Skill Building: Gain documented experience in strategic planning, business development, and cross-functional team management that supports growth related to your field of study.

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and a brief cover letter outlining your interest in innovation and your relevant leadership experience to Dr. Shou Wong at swong@mst.edu while cc:ing Ms. Shayla Yoakum at syoakum@mst.edu. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis for the Spring 2026 semester.