York’s University’s new co-op program preparing undergraduate students in the Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change (EUC) for the future of work.
A recent worldwide survey by the Manpower Group reports that 70 per cent of employers are urgently recruiting or planning to recruit people with sustainability skills.
Toronto’s York University is working to bridge that gap through the five undergraduate degree programs offered through its Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change (EUC). The EUC’s recently launched co-op program give students in each of these five programs an opportunity to integrate their classroom learning with practical, hands-on experience as they earn their degree.
Mediaplanet recently spoke with Dr. Alice J. Hovorka, Dean, Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change, and Shaniah Hutchinson, this year’s co-op student with Hydro One, to learn more about the program and how it benefits students and employers.
Alice J. Hovorka: Dean,
Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change, York
University
How does EUC’s undergraduate co-op program complement the student’s classroom learning?
We’ve always been focused on experiential learning, and the co-op program allows us to extend that experiential learning into the workplace.
How does it enhance the student’s employability in their field?
Our student immediately start gaining both transferable skills and fundamental knowledge in their programs, as well as a direct line into potential employment in the sectors they are interested in.
How does it enhance the student’s employability in their field?
Our student immediately start gaining both transferable skills and fundamental knowledge in their programs, as well as a direct line into potential employment in the sectors they are interested in.
What are the benefits to employers?
One thing I hear repeatedly from employers is that our students are capable of holistic thinking and critical thinking, extremely important skills when trying to solve environmental challenges. Also, because many of our faculty members are doing research in these areas, our students are already learning how to apply that knowledge in the real world through their environmental science classes and bringing these skills into the workplace.
Shaniah Hutchinson: Co-op Student at Hydro One
Tell me about your role with Hydro One?
I’m currently a Stakeholder and Partnerships Co-op Student at Hydro One. In this role, I collaborate with the team to support meaningful engagement with various stakeholders, helping to strengthen partnerships that align with the company’s goals and initiatives. My tasks range from supporting stakeholder consultations and project planning to coordinating events and researching best practices in partnership development. I also contribute to crafting reports and presentations that help streamline communications.
What kind or experience and skills are you acquiring there?
I’m building skills in stakeholder engagement, project coordination, and communication strategies. These experiences align closely with my background in sustainable environmental management and urban planning aspirations.
How will this co-op experience benefit you in your career?
This co-op complements my passion for urban sustainability and planning by exposing me to real-world stakeholder engagement and equipping me with practical skills and industry knowledge that will be valuable for a future career in policy, urban planning, or sustainable development. This co-op is also helping me connect the dots between my academic background in sustainable environmental management and my career aspirations.
To learn more, visit yorku.ca/discover/EUC.
