Ross Horsley is reimagining his career track after diving headfirst into the world of municipal accounting during his co-op placement at the City of Port Colborne.

Every task, from drainage billing to fire service cost analysis, has been an opportunity for the third-year Accounting student to make a difference in the local community.

As well as exposing him to government accounting and municipal financial systems, Horsley said his experience has made him feel like a valued member of the team.

“I truly believe I have grown because I feel like my work matters,” he said.

He attributes much of his growth to the mentorship of his supervisors, Manager of Financial Services/Deputy Treasurer Adam Pigeau, Chief Administrative Officer/Treasurer Bryan Boles and Supervisor of Financial Reporting Jade McDowall, who have helped him refine critical skills such as data organization, financial reporting and understanding municipal systems.

Pigeau has been impressed by Horsley’s performance during his co-op.

“Ross has been an outstanding addition to our team. His ability to quickly adapt to the complexities of municipal accounting and his attention to detail have made him an invaluable asset,” Pigeau said. “What sets Ross apart is his dedication to not only understanding the numbers but also how they impact the city and its residents. We’ve been impressed with his growth and are excited to see where his career takes him.”

Horsley has been involved in the drainage billing process, which helps fund drainage infrastructure projects, as well as providing data on fire services, which is used to inform budget planning. He has also contributed to the city’s grant procedures, helping fund essential programs that enhance community life.

“The work I’ve done here isn’t just paperwork. It affects real projects that improve the city and the lives of its residents,” he said. “It’s rewarding to know that what I do matters on a larger scale.”

Alesia Dane, Associate Director, Co-op and Workplace Partnerships, emphasized the value of co-op placements in expanding students’ career perspectives.

“Co-op is an opportunity for students to explore different career paths and apply their skills in diverse environments. Ross’s experience is a great example of how co-op allows students to step outside the traditional accounting firm path and see the broader impact of their work,” Dane said. “Through his work term with the City of Port Colborne, he’s been able to use his financial skills to contribute to this community in meaningful ways.”

Horsley credits his education at Brock for preparing him to succeed in the role.

“Theoretical knowledge from my accounting program has given me a strong foundation to apply in real-life situations,” he said. “But Brock has also taught me valuable interpersonal skills such as how to communicate effectively in a team and manage competing deadlines.”

Looking ahead to the future, Horsley now plans to pursue a career path that allows him to continue contributing to the community.

“I’ve realized that my passion lies in roles like this one, where I can make a real difference,” he said. “After graduation, I hope to find a position in the Niagara region, but I’m open to opportunities wherever they may arise.”

Outside of his career goals and work with Port Colborne, Horsley is passionate about triathlons. A former Jiu Jitsu competitor, he rediscovered his love for triathlons during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His dedication has paid off and he recently competed in the Ironman 70.3 World Championships in Taupo, New Zealand.

“I’ve learned that having a healthy work-life balance is crucial,” he said. “The team at Port Colborne understands this, and they were incredibly supportive when I left to race. That support, along with their approach to life outside of work, has made me more productive and motivated during my time at the office.”