The Co-op and Experiential Learning Awards Ceremony, hosted by the Office of Experiential Learning on March 26, celebrated the outstanding achievements of students and employers in work-integrated learning.

The event coincided with the National Day of Work-Integrated Learning, a fitting moment to recognize the transformative power of experiential learning and the positive outcomes it brings to students, employers, and the community.

Awards were presented to employers for providing meaningful work experiences that help students bridge the gap between academics and industry, outstanding co-op supervisors who have gone above and beyond in mentoring students, and rising star co-op students who showed great potential in their work-integrated learning experiences during the fall, winter, and summer 2024 work terms.

Marie Mills, acting director of co-operative education and workplace partnerships, highlights the impact of experiential learning on students’ growth and success.

“The impact of experiential learning is evident in the way students are applying what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world challenges and projects, and it’s exciting to see how much our industry partners invest in them,” she says. “We’re incredibly proud of the impact our students are making in their work terms, and these awards are a celebration of their hard work, enthusiasm, and growth.”

Bill Marino, acting manager of employer relations and partnerships at the co-op office, says that its meaningful partnerships help drive the success of these programs.

“It’s truly inspiring to see how dedicated employers are in offering students valuable opportunities to grow professionally,” says Marino. “These partnerships are about more than just filling a role; they’re about investing in the next generation, and that’s what makes this celebration so special.”

Find a full list of 2025 award winners on the Co-op and Experiential Learning Awards webpage.