Handshake

Handshake is a pioneering career platform dedicated to democratizing job opportunities for students nationwide. Founded in 2014 by Garrett Lord, Ben Christensen, and Scott Ringwelski during their time at Michigan Tech University, Handshake aims to eliminate inequality in career access, empowering all students, regardless of their background or school affiliation.

Through its expansive network, Handshake connects over 15 million active student users with more than 900,000 employers and 1,500+ college and university partners, including many leading institutions. The platform provides a vital resource for early-career job seekers, specializing in virtual career fairs and recruitment services tailored to modern job applications.

The company has rapidly grown into the leading early career community in the U.S., attracting significant investment and expanding its reach with a focus on building inclusive work environments. Handshake's mission is clear: to ensure every student can pursue the career they envision, fostering connections that lead to meaningful employment opportunities.