The ability to integrate well-educated students into the workforce for some real-world experience is great. Students coming out of the CAWP program for co-op terms are a benefit to the company and are able to work on special programs to further the overall development of the organization.
The Wood Products Processing Co-op students have been integral in Superior Cabinets’ ability to become an innovative leader in the Canadian kitchen cabinet industry, co-op students can hit-the-ground-running and are able to focus attention on projects that would not see the light of day otherwise. Not only do they learn from us, we learn so much from them as well, it’s truly a synergistic relationship.
Agri Food Canada
At Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, I offer a variety of research-based tasks to co-op students. Some research involves computer and analytical work but students also have the opportunity to make field observations, take samples of soil, water, plants, and manure, and conduct laboratory analysis of these samples. Because I have a small program, with limited staff resources, I am able to get the co-op student involved in all of our activities, so they get a lot of variety. My program also involves a variety of agricultural issues including soil nutrient and manure management and analyzing adoption trends of a variety of environmentally-friendly farming practices. Other scientists at our Centre focus on research at a small plot scale, whereas my work investigates the feasibility of new practices at the field scale on real farms. This provides an added value for students – by participating in the practical application of research to the real world. This involves talking with farmers about the real life issues they face every day and discussing the potential benefits and possible obstacles when considering the adoption of new practices. Without a co-op student, I would not be able to accomplish my project objectives.
