October 4th, 2022

“It’s something I’ll be able to take with me whatever I end up doing.”

Co-operative Education is often associated with hands-on learning experiences that can be applied to a specific job or trade. But, co-op placements also provide students with opportunities to develop the soft skills that lead to personal growth and development, and which are in demand in today’s rapidly changing workplaces.

One of those intangibles, poise, is instantly recognizable in Jamie Zhang, a Grade 12 student at Waterloo Collegiate Institute (WCI). She credits much of that to her time as an Air Cadet.

“I was always a bit of a shy kid, but being part of the cadet program has helped me come out of my shell as I became more and more confident in who I am and what I can do.”

This past summer, Jamie had a summer co-op placement in the Canadian Cadet Organization run by the Department of National Defence, where she earned the rank of flight sergeant. From the base at the Kitchener Armory, she spent much of her time planning and running daily activities for younger cadets. She also led several field trips where cadets practised orienteering, celestial navigation, and geo-caching. Part of that included interacting with participants and officers from the individual Air, Sea and Army Cadet programs.

“Youth leading youth is one of the mottos of the Cadet Program,” she said. “This is one way I’m able to develop my leadership skills.”

Jamie’s Commanding Officer, Captain Douglas Gibbons, is the officer in charge of the Cadet Activity Program in Kitchener. Gibbons is also a child and youth worker and a National Coaches Certification Program (NCCP) coach. He is passionate about developing the potential in young people.

“One of the pillars of the Cadet Program is the advancement of citizenship and leadership,” Gibbons said. “Jamie has so much potential and it’s great to see her grow and develop her talents and abilities in those areas.”

Jamie is interested in studying sciences after high school, but hasn’t finalized her plans yet.

“I don’t think I’ll end up having a career in the Armed Forces, but I will always be grateful for the leadership skills I’ve picked up through the Cadet Program,” said Jamie. “It’s something I’ll be able to take with me whatever I end up doing.”

Co-operative Education in the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB)

Co-operative Education placements give students a hands-on way to explore careers in fields as diverse as child care, law, computer programming and the trades. Students, parents and caregivers can learn about these opportunities by speaking with the Guidance Counsellor at your high school.

Pathways to Success

Visit the Pathways to Success website for information on:

Employers

If you’re someone who wants to help a student explore a career in your field, contact:

Kim Keena, Experiential and Co-operative Education Lead
Waterloo Region District School Board
kim_keena@wrdsb.ca
519-570-0003 (extension 4443)

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