EWO Member Spotlight |
Co-operative Education Specialist, Mohawk College
1. How many years have you been working in Co-op/WIL and/or Experiential Learning?
I’ve had very enjoyable and long career at Mohawk and have had the pleasure of working as a Co-op Specialist for the last 16 years. I felt like a WIL project in the making before it was even a thing.
2. Tell us a little bit about your career and why you do what you do?
My first job at Mohawk was as a summer student on the grounds department. I developed my own career path within my workplace, having had 13 different jobs in support, admin, and teaching capacities. Each step of the way I developed knowledge and skills that assisted in obtaining the next position. After ten years of various positions on the facilities side of our operation, I entered the academic support side as an Admissions Officer. From there had various roles in student services, then marketing and recruitment. I knew I would end up in a position where I would have maximum positive influence on students. As a Co-op Specialist, I now support students the way many had supported me. I am grateful to my mentors along the way for believing in me. Now, I pay it forward.
A constant in my lengthy career has been learning how my organization functioned by getting involved in committee work, leadership positions, conferences and more. One of the most interesting parts was acting as a staff governor for 15 years. All of this learning was crucial in helping me understand where my interests would be best suited and how I could contribute to my organization most effectively. I found Co-op and love it! The team I am on is top notch and truly dedicated to student success.
3. We work with a talented group of individuals across the province who are passionate about the work they do. What do you consider your ‘super powers’?
My super powers would include employer relationships; I love this part. Developing a trusting relationship is critical and it takes a meaningful and genuine approach to maintain the relationship. I enjoy maintaining employer contact so they know they can come to us as a reliable source of student interest in their organization. I also receive great pleasure in watching students mature throughout their Co-op journey, becoming full time employees, and getting involved in hiring their own Co-op students. Some have joined out
4. What is one accomplishment you are most proud of?
I achieved my college, then university, educational credentials in my 40’s then in my 50’s. There is no better time to invest in yourself than “always”. There were a lot of late nights and missed events but it was all worth it. I made my family proud as well. Learning for “life” is a great investment.
5. How have you gotten involved in EWO (committees, conferences, networking events, etc.) and what has your experience been like?
What a treat it was to be part of the EWO Awards and Recognition Committee for six years. We had an amazing team from Algonquin, Brock, Waterloo, George Brown, and York, who made the work so much fun. Did I say work? I was inspired every year we reviewed the submissions of incredible students for provincial awards. Our students are amazing and so many of them help the world go around. We work in an honourable industry folks!
To my WIL practitioner colleagues… I recommend you get involved, at some point, with EWO. This organization is by us, for us, to better serve our students and our communities. It was a highlight of my WIL career and I made great memories and friends from it.