Computer science student Meet Solanki works with supervisor Luis Palacios, a data specialist at the South Essex Community Council, to enhance its system managing relationships with clients.
For Meet Solanki, a third-year computer science student at the University of Windsor, co-op has been a game-changer. Currently working as a data specialist assistant at the South Essex Community Council (SECC), Solanki has found the perfect balance between honing his technical skills and making a meaningful impact in the community.
His experience demonstrates that gaining valuable tech experience is not limited to working at a tech company: community organizations like SECC also provide opportunities for students to apply their technical skills in impactful ways.
“I was drawn to this role because it aligns with my passion for data science and technology,” says Solanki. “SECC’s mission to help people and create a positive impact also resonated with me, and I wanted to work in an environment where I could take on significant responsibilities while growing both professionally and personally.”
During his work term, Solanki has been actively engaging in improving SECC’s Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system through projects like security enhancements, user interface improvements, and data operations. These projects not only streamline operations at SECC but also give him hands-on experience in database governance, analytics, and cybersecurity.
Solanki’s co-op placement has provided him with valuable insights into the IT industry, particularly structured in project planning and user-driven development. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration in creating efficient data solutions.
“My co-op experience has reinforced that IT projects are not just about coding but about aligning solutions with real-world user needs through structured execution,” he explains. “For example, while enhancing CRM dashboards, me and my supervisor consulted department coordinators to define data filtering needs based on client type, service usage, or time period, ensuring the solution met their workflow.”
Beyond technical skills, Solanki has also developed crucial soft skills.
“I am deepening my understanding of teamwork and Canadian work culture. Collaborating with colleagues and supporting one another has sharpened my communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills,” he says.
Luis Palacios, data specialist and department co-ordinator at SECC, has seen first-hand the impact that co-op students like Solanki bring to the organization.
“We look for enthusiastic and analytical individuals with curiosity for discovering new tools in data analysis and programming,” says Palacios. “Students have the availability to learn and explore these tools to find solutions for real-world problems.”
Palacios says the goal at SECC is to help students align their learning objectives with organizational needs to create a meaningful and engaging co-op experience.
“We work with them to fit our needs and their goals together, creating a more positive and engaging experience for them,” he explains. “We pair our students with a mentor but also give them access to technical experts and the CEO. We take them out into the community to connect with stakeholders and create opportunities for them to get to know the greater business and tech community.”
As someone who has successfully navigated the co-op process, Solanki encourages future students to be proactive in their roles.
“Take initiative — don’t wait for tasks to be assigned. Always give 100 per cent effort, even on small tasks, as they help build trust and credibility,” he advises. “Networking is key, so connect with colleagues, engage in different teams, and build meaningful relationships. Most importantly, embrace every challenge as a learning opportunity to make the most of your co-op experience.”
With half of his work term complete, Solanki’s experience at SECC has shaped his career aspirations in data science.
“My co-op experience significantly enhanced my technical expertise in data operations, CRM enhancements, and security measures,” he says. “I plan to leverage these experiences in my future career as a data scientist, using the practical skills and insights I’ve gained to drive innovation and data-driven solutions in a collaborative environment.”
With support from SECC and the University of Windsor’s co-op program, Solanki is well on his way to making an impact in the tech industry — one data solution at a time.