Odette School of Business student Amanda Muzzatti has been recognized as a Rising Star Award recipient for her ongoing co-op work in short- and long-term disability case management, where she supports employees through medical leaves and return-to-work processes. (VICTOR ROMAO/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
Amanda Muzzatti did not expect her co‑op placement to reshape her career goals — but it is doing so in a surprising way.
The UWindsor Odette business administration student, specializing in human resources, has been named a Rising Star Award recipient for her ongoing work in short‑ and long‑term disability case management with Ground Effects (GFX), a locally based automotive accessories manufacturer. Her integrated learning experience places her at the centre of employee support during some of the most challenging moments of their lives.
Q: Can you describe your co-op experience with Ground Effects and what your responsibilities are?
A: I work in short- and long-term disability case management with Ground Effects (GFX). The program supports employees who require extended medical leave due to surgery, illness or mental health concerns. Employees receive partial benefits through the company’s insurance provider, and I manage claims and support their return to work, including temporary modified duties.
I also support health and safety initiatives, including contributing to internal communications, assisting with training and supporting other workplace safety efforts.
Q: How have you been able to make a significant contribution during your work term?
A: I manage approximately 90 per cent of new short- and long-term disability claims while supporting existing cases. In total, I have directly supported dozens of employees as they navigate medical leaves, benefits eligibility and return to work processes during periods of non-occupational illness or injury.
Beyond administration, I act as a key point of contact during stressful and uncertain times. Ensuring employees have accurate information, timely support and access to benefits helps reduce confusion and supports both employee well‑being and organizational outcomes.
Q: What has been the greatest area of learning or personal growth during your placement?
A: The biggest learning experience has been realizing how complex human resources truly is. Before this role, I saw HR mainly as recruitment and discipline. This placement has shown me a side of HR focused on advocacy, empathy and real human impact.
Working directly with employees during some of the most difficult periods of their lives has changed how I view the profession. I’ve learned the importance of balancing policy with compassion, clear communication and ethical decision-making.
Q: Has this experience influenced your future career goals?
A: This experience has helped me find my niche within HR and continues to shape my career goals. I plan to pursue a career focused on short- and long-term disability management, and possibly Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) case management in the future. Working with an organization that genuinely values and supports its employees has confirmed the type of HR professional I want to be.
Q: What valuable skills have you taken away from the placement thus far?
A: Learning how to have difficult conversations is one of the most valuable skills I’ve developed. At times, I must share challenging news, such as delays in pay or reduced income. Handling these conversations with professionalism and empathy is a transferable skill I will carry into any role.
Q: How did your university studies prepare you for this experience?
A: My studies have given me a strong foundation and prepared me for the level of professionalism required. While much of my work is highly specialized, my studies ensured I didn’t start from ground zero and allowed me to build confidently in the role.
For Muzzatti, the Rising Star recognition reflects more than strong performance. It highlights a commitment to people-centred work, accountability and ethical practice — qualities she plans to continue developing as she completes her co-op program and builds a career in human resources.
New employers looking to learn more about hiring a co-op student can contact hire@uwindsor.ca.
This article is part of a series celebrating excellence in experiential learning. Co-operative Education and Workplace Partnerships selected Rising Star Award recipients whose stories will inspire future co-op students throughout the 2025/26 school year.