Meet SIOP Member Brenna Barrett
Name
Brenna Barrett
Position/Employer
Recent Master of Applied Psychology Graduate
How long have you been a SIOP member?
First year
What roles have you had within SIOP?
None yet, but I am very interested
Interest area(s)
My interest areas span organizational development, people analytics, leadership and team effectiveness, and employee experience. I am especially drawn to roles that combine data with empathy to improve how people and organizations work together. That said, I remain open to exploring different directions in I-O psychology, as I value growth and the chance to learn from diverse opportunities.
What sparked your interest in I-O psychology?
I have always been fascinated by psychology, but I knew clinical work was not the right fit. While exploring options for graduate school, I discovered an applied I-O psychology program in Australia that focused on organizational behavior and evidence-based leadership. It immediately felt like the intersection of everything I cared about—understanding people, improving systems, and helping organizations thrive. That discovery is what inspired me to pack up my life and move across the world to pursue the program. Since then, every step in my career, whether in market research, youth mentoring, or international higher education, has deepened my belief that this is where I belong. I-O psychology gives me the tools to blend curiosity, problem-solving, and a global perspective into meaningful impact, and I am determined to keep building my path forward in this space.
What role do you see I-O psychology playing in the future of work?
I-O psychology will be essential in shaping a more human-centered workplace. As AI and automation expand, the differentiator will be how organizations design roles, foster adaptability, and prioritize employee well-being. I-O psychologists bring the science of behavior and evidence-based interventions to help organizations balance efficiency with empathy.
What work trends are you seeing and hearing about and how can I-O psychology practitioners, educators, and students impact these trends?
AI isn’t just a trend—it’s rewriting the rules of work. Pair that with the paradox of recent grads struggling to get in the door while organizations face complex people challenges, and it’s clear: I-O psychology is needed more than ever. Our role is to humanize technology, translate data into decisions, and create pathways for the next generation to thrive.
What advice would you give to students or those early in their career?
I am also an early practitioner, and my biggest advice is to stay curious and open-minded. Your career path does not need to be linear.
Is there any guidance you would provide to a job seeker given the current challenging state of the job market?
It’s honestly tough right now—I’m really struggling. But I still believe the I-O world is full of kind people, and the energy I’m putting out will circle back. One thing I’ve learned: you have to network. Cold outreach alone won’t cut it; it’s the real connections that move things forward.
What tip can you share with someone who might not know how to network in the field of I-O psychology?
Think of networking as relationship building, not asking for favors. Everyone feels imposter syndrome at some point, but remember, every pro you admire was once brand new, too. Get creative! Some of my strongest connections came from the most unconventional outreach. Be bold, be brave.
What is one of your favorite SIOP Annual Conference memories/highlights?
I haven’t made it yet, but I’ll see you all in Louisiana in 2026!
Please share one non-I-O-related bit of information about yourself.
I’m an advanced open water scuba diver! I got certified during my two years in Australia, and since then I’ve explored underwater worlds in San Diego, the Great Barrier Reef, and the Caribbean. Can’t wait to see where the next dive takes me!
Is there anything you would like to add?
What I value most about the I-O community is the blend of rigor and humanity—it is a field grounded in evidence yet powered by people. I am eager to keep growing, contributing, and learning as my career unfolds. While AI can augment our work, it will never replace the core of this discipline: human insight, creativity, and connection. The future of I-O psychology belongs to those who keep it human, keep it unique, and stay committed to impact.
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