Workplace Readiness Strategist | Leadership Presence Trainer | Certified Etiquette Consultant

Summer is a workplace readiness strategist who helps universities, organizations, and professionals develop the communication skills, professional standards, and leadership presence needed to succeed in today’s workplace.

 

With more than 20 years of experience in higher education, career services, and employer engagement, Summer brings a unique perspective shaped by direct work with the employers, leaders, and institutions shaping today’s workforce. Her work spans students preparing for their careers, MBA programs developing future leaders, government professionals navigating high-stakes environments, and organizations investing in their talent.

 

Previously, Summer served as the inaugural Director of Employer Engagement at Texas Career Engagement at The University of Texas at Austin, where she led strategic employer partnerships and initiatives designed to expand internship and career opportunities for students. Her work focused on strengthening the connection between higher education and workforce needs, insight that now informs her training with professionals across industries.

 

Summer has also held national leadership roles with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Employers (SoACE), where she served as President representing a 15-state region of more than 300 colleges, universities, and organizations. Her leadership focused on advancing career readiness, leadership development, and stronger collaboration between education and industry.

 

As the founder of Salazar Consulting, Summer designs interactive training experiences that help participants build workplace confidence, strengthen executive communication, and develop the professional awareness needed to navigate interviews, networking environments, client interactions, and leadership settings with credibility. Her programs are known for being practical, engaging, and immediately applicable across career stages.

 

Summer is a Certified Etiquette Consultant and Associate Trainer with The Etiquette Institute. She holds a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Organization, Workforce, and Leadership Studies from Texas State University and a Bachelor of Arts in English and Communication Arts from St. Mary’s University.

 

When asked about her favorite piece of advice, Summer shares:

"Don't just be yourself. Be your BEST self."

 

She believes career success comes from self-awareness, adaptability, and the ability to read the room, skills that build trust, strengthen relationships, and open doors to opportunity.