University of Windsor alumnus Eric Parker, credits the University's co-op program with helping him discover a career path that combined engineering expertise with relationship-building. Today, he serves as Director of Sales at Vista Solutions. (SUBMITTED BY ERIC PARKER/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
Sometimes the most valuable lesson from a co-op placement is discovering what you do not want to do.
For many students, experiential learning helps confirm career ambitions. For others, it opens the door to opportunities they may not have known existed.
Exploring different industries, roles and workplace environments can provide valuable insight into personal strengths, interests and long-term goals.
University of Windsor alumnus Eric Parker (BASc Hons. ’18) experienced that firsthand.
— Published on Oct 5th, 2026
Electrical engineering co-op student Luke Laforest received a Rising Star Award for his contributions during a work term at Ford Motor Company's Windsor Engine Plant. Through projects focused on predictive planning, assembly-line optimization and continuous improvement, he delivered solutions that helped improve efficiency, reduce costs and support frontline workers. (LUKE LAFOREST/University of Windsor)
At a modern engine plant, even a brief disruption can have significant consequences.
— Published on Sep 1st, 2026
Ashley Deslippe, a University of Windsor Odette School of Business alumna and human resources coordinator at AAR, says co-op placements, international learning experiences and campus leadership opportunities helped prepare her for a career in human resources. (SUBMITTED BY ASHLEY DESLIPPE/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
A co-op placement is often viewed as a bridge between the classroom and the workplace.
For some students, it can also become the first step toward a long-term career.
The opportunity to gain practical experience, build professional relationships and apply classroom knowledge can open doors well beyond graduation.
That was the case for Ashley Deslippe (BComm ’25).
— Published on Aug 21st, 2026
Master of Science in Computer Science student Nishant Gowthaman received a Rising Star Award for his contributions during a co-op placement with CenterLine (Windsor) Limited. During his work term, he developed a machine learning-powered system that transformed years of estimating data into a searchable resource, supporting continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. (SHIVANGI ROY/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
When Nishant Gowthaman arrived at CenterLine (Windsor) Limited for his co-op placement, he was presented with a challenge that extended far beyond writing code.
The company had years of estimating data stored across thousands of spreadsheets, containing valuable knowledge that engineers often struggled to find and reuse.
— Published on Aug 17th, 2026
Odette School of Business student Abigail McLeod received a Rising Star Award for her contributions during a co-op placement with PromoShop. During her work term, she helped improve the company's email marketing performance and supported business development efforts that led to new client acquisitions. (SUBMITTED BY ABIGAIL MCLEOD/University of Windsor)
By Victor Romao
For Abigail McLeod, a co-op placement at PromoShop became an opportunity to make a measurable impact while discovering where she wants her career to go.
The third-year Odette School of Business student contributed to marketing and business development initiatives that helped strengthen client relationships, improve campaign performance and support company growth.
— Published on Jul 27th, 2026
University of Windsor alumnus Eric Parker, credits the University's co-op program with helping him discover a career path that combined engineering expertise with relationship-building. Today, he serves as Director of Sales at Vista Solutions. (SUBMITTED BY ERIC PARKER/University of Windsor)
