Indigenous power hour: Let’s level up your LinkedIn

Presented Indigenous Power Hour: Let’s Level Up Your LinkedIn as part of the American Indian Heritage Center Power Hour series. This professional development session focused on empowering Indigenous students, professionals, educators, and community members to strategically utilize LinkedIn as a tool for career advancement, leadership development, workforce readiness, professional networking, and lifelong learning. The presentation emphasized the importance of building a strong professional presence while remaining grounded in cultural identity, community values, and personal purpose.The session explored practical strategies for developing an effective LinkedIn profile, communicating educational and professional experiences, building meaningful professional networks, engaging with industry leaders, and identifying opportunities for internships, scholarships, mentorship, leadership development, and career advancement. Participants examined how digital platforms can be leveraged to increase visibility, strengthen professional relationships, and create pathways to opportunities in education, STEM fields, business, public service, and other professional sectors.Particular attention was given to the importance of Indigenous representation within professional spaces and the role that networking, mentorship, and leadership development play in expanding opportunities for Indigenous peoples. Discussions focused on overcoming barriers to professional advancement, increasing access to social and professional capital, and utilizing technology to connect with individuals, organizations, and communities that support educational and career goals. The session encouraged participants to view LinkedIn as more than a digital résumé by using it as a platform for storytelling, advocacy, community engagement, and thought leadership.The presentation also highlighted the relationship between workforce development, digital literacy, economic mobility, and community empowerment. Participants explored how professional networking and digital engagement contribute to career success, leadership growth, and the development of stronger Indigenous professional networks capable of supporting future generations. Emphasis was placed on creating authentic professional identities that honor both cultural heritage and career aspirations.This presentation informs my teaching, research, and service by advancing my work in workforce development, Indigenous education, leadership development, digital literacy, educational technology, community engagement, and professional learning. The presentation reflects a commitment to expanding opportunities for Indigenous learners and professionals, strengthening leadership pipelines, promoting economic mobility, and empowering individuals to leverage technology and professional networks to achieve their educational and career goals.