Each year in March, the University of Windsor's Co-operative Education and Workplace Partnerships office joins universdities across Canada to celebrate National Co-op and Work-Integrated Learning Month, helping to promote the transformative power of work-integrated learning and blending academic study with real-world experiences. Work-integrated laerning not only enriches students' learning journeys but also fosters a deeper understanding of their field, enhancing employability and facilitating connections with industry professionals. Through this immersive approach, learners are better equipped to meet the demands of today's dynamic workforce.
Throughout March, the co-op office showcased the experiences of co-op and internship students who are shining in their respective fields and working alongside employers from diverse industries.
Rising Star Co-op/Internship Student Awards
Co-op Rising Star Award Recipient, Sharjeel Mustafa is a Bachelor of Science student who recently completed his 3-month work tenure at Swift Medical as a Data Scientist Co-op, where he worked on projects that encompassed the data pipeline. He worked on two data analysis projects that resulted in two research papers and an information extraction prototype for a multi-million-dollar initiative.
"My recent work term at Swift Medical has reshaped my career goals, inspiring me to focus on machine learning. It has prompted me to enhance my skills, such as implementing time-boxing for better productivity. This experience led me to choose a machine learning project for my fourth-year research and engage in an information extraction project at school, aligning with my newfound passion."
Chloe is an Engineering Co-op student who was recently awarded a Co-op Rising Star Award for her work-term at Diageo as a Manufacturing Excellence Specialist. She played a crucial role in projects, including creating interactive presentations on waste streams that contributed to Diageo's long-term goal of low carbon emissions by 2030.
"Discovering my passion for manufacturing and the power of collaborative problem-solving during this experience has solidified my post-graduation career goals. It sparked an interest in business and leadership, motivating me to explore relevant programs for enhanced career prospects. Aspiring to contribute to Manufacturing Excellence and drive operational efficiencies through continuous improvement, I'm grateful to the University of Windsor's co-op program for guiding me toward my long-term career path."
Co-op Rising Star Award recipient and Business Co-op student, Kelsey, recently completed her work term at Peak Processing Solutions as a Marketing Co-op. Playing a pivotal role, she focused on revitalizing the company’s brand presence, both online and offline, aligning with strategic goals of enhancing visibility and engagement.
"My term at Peak Processing Solutions transformed my skills in photography, brand development, and marketing. I refined technical photography aspects like lighting and editing software, enhancing my ability to create compelling visual content. Developing unique brand voices for multiple brands honed my creativity and strategic approach. The startup/small business environment offered insights into collaborative marketing dynamics, broadening my skills and perspective in the field."
Jace Jacobs, Co-op Rising Star Award Recipient and Bachelor of Commerce student, excelled during his work term at Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority as Communications Co-op. Applying unique graphic design skills, he showcased flexibility across various projects, including website management, data analysis, and communication enhancement.
"During my co-op, I discovered the vital role of networking and relationship building. Actively engaging in extracurricular work events and activities helped me establish lasting connections with managers and colleagues. This shift in mindset enhanced my workplace enjoyment, improved interpersonal skills, and expanded collaboration abilities. Applying this approach beyond work, I've become more personable and open to new connections. This relationship-focused strategy created valuable opportunities, such as securing a job in the communications department through connections built during my first term with WDBA. My advice to future co-op students: prioritize genuine relationships and participate in networking events for fulfilling and unforgettable experiences."
Maira, Co-op Rising Star Award Recipient and Engineering Co-op student, excelled during her work term at Ford Motor Company as a Process Engineer Co-op. Her contributions towards various projects allowed her to gain control systems knowledge, carry out a project with a team, and apply what she learned in the classroom to the production line.
“Being part of a big project that would alter the Block line through the installation of a new, Guhring tool was a great learning experience for me. My co-op experience allowed me to apply engineering principals learned in school into the real world and determine how projects follow specific guidelines from initiation to execution. My efforts in preparing the Block production line for the new tool helped me personally grow, and build skills like time management, organization, leadership, and project management.”
Employer/Community Partner Awards
Stellantis-ARDC
Stellantis-ARDC has been a long-standing partner of the co-operative education program at the University of Windsor, showcasing an unwavering dedication to providing students with enriching and exceptional work term experiences. ARDC has opened doors for countless students, enabling them to gain invaluable hands-on experience in their field of study.
Mike Van Nie, Senior Manager, Human Resources, Valiant TMS
Mike Van Nie’s was selected as the Co-op/Internship Champion of the Year for his exceptional contributions, dedication, and collaborative spirit, which has not only enhanced the work term experiences of our students but has also contributed significantly to the growth of the co-operative education program.