Did you know that it is possible to gain work experience prior to graduating university through co-op, internship and job shadowing opportunities?
Co-op
Try out different roles through paid work opportunities that can last anywhere from 4 to 16 months. Co-op can be mandatory or optional depending on what university you attend, but they are definitely worthwhile to gain valuable work experience. Examples of co-op programs include Waterloo University’s mandatory engineering co-op program aka the largest co-op program on the planet, optional summer and year-long co-ops like those offered at Western University, Faculty of Engineering, 4 to 16 month optional co-ops at Ontario Tech University, or the co-operative internships made available by Toronto Metropolitan University.
Internship
Gaining work experience through an internship will give you a competitive advantage when you graduate. Ranging from 12-16 month placements you will be able to work on advanced engineering projects from start to finish and get a real taste of what being an engineer means. Average salary ranges start at $45,000/yr so this is well worth a look.
Company Tours
Not sure where you want to work? You can opt in for a company tour at Ontario Tech University, that allows you to tour different companies, experience where engineers work within these companies and connect with women engineers through speed mentoring session after the tour.