Experiential learning at Brock University will be celebrated with an array of activities for National Co-op and Work-Integrated Learning Month.

The University’s Co-op, Career and Experiential Education (CCEE) team will partner with Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL) to host a series of on-campus and virtual events throughout March to highlight the various co-op and work-integrated learning (WIL) initiatives at Brock.

Beginning with a virtual event to connect Brock students with Gillian’s Place women’s shelter in St. Catharines on Wednesday, March 1, and wrapping up with a final ‘co-op on the go’ information booth Thursday, March 30, the month will feature a mix of information sessions, panels, employer events and more.

CCEE Director Cara Krezek said the month aims to shine a spotlight on the leadership of Canadian institutions and organizations in bringing learning, practice and reflection together.

“During the month, we celebrate student achievement across the country and showcase how student talent can have a large impact on our workforce,” she said. “Now, more than ever, with the global talent shortages, WIL can be used as a way to bridge the skills gap and create a pipeline of talent for organizations.”

Additional celebrations will take place Wednesday, March 22 for the National Day of WIL, when the Brock community will gather to celebrate several annual awards, including:

• Alumni Co-op Employer of the Year;
• Co-op Student of the Year;
• Co-op Employer of the Year;
• Experiential Education Student of the Year;
• Sohail Chilmeran Scholarship Recipient;
• Outstanding Co-op Supervisor of the Term Recognition

Along with recognizing individual excellence, Krezek said continued efforts to enhance co-op and experiential education at the University have seen Brock recognized as a leader in WIL.

“More than 150 organizations, institutions, governments and partners have approached us for consultation to learn how we do what we do,” she said. “With a plethora of experiential options, our approach to partnering with faculty and our focus on continuing to stay agile and innovative, we aim to continue to lead Canada in our approach to student success.”

To learn more about National Co-op and Work Integrated Learning Month at Brock and view a full listing of events, visit the CCEE website.