An information session held by one of Canada’s foremost technology companies Sept. 19 offered UWindsor students a chance to discuss and learn about co-operative education and experiential learning opportunities in the tech industry.

Over 100 students attended to hear representatives from BlackBerry promote their brand and answer questions about its co-op and internship programs, which give students the opportunity to work on cutting-edge technologies like Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, Engagement of Things, and cybersecurity.

Noah Campbell, a graduate of the University of Windsor computer science co-op program now working as a technical marketing specialist for BlackBerry, attended the event to talk to students about the impact co-op has had on his career journey.

“It was absolutely tremendous to return to campus to speak to students directly about the numerous positive impacts co-operative education has made in my employment journey,” says Campbell. “By leveraging the connections I made as a co-op student at BlackBerry, I had the opportunity to keep the lines of communication open when identifying potential professional roles at the organization several years after my initial placement, and post-graduation.”

Johanna Beneteau, business development and employer engagement co-ordinator for Co-operative Education and Workplace Partnerships, says BlackBerry believes in UWindsor talent and provides a meaningful experience for students.

“Our students really enjoy their placements as they are made to feel like part of the team and are given challenging and rewarding work,” she says.

Students were eager and enthusiastic to connect with BlackBerry recruiters and managers face-to-face, as this was their first in-person event with the office of Co-operative Education and Workplace Partnerships since 2019.