By: Namish Modi (he/him)

As organizations focus on reimagining work and with artificial intelligence disrupting the workforce, employers who hire University of Waterloo co-op students continue to shine.

Eighty-three of Waterloo's standout employers are in Canada's Top 100 Employers for 2024.

Mediacorp Canada Inc. and the Globe and Mail announced the winners of the 24th annual editorial competition on Friday, November 17. A special magazine published in The Globe and Mail recognized and featured each of the winners.

We’re delighted that our standout employers continue to earn recognition. This year’s employers are making an outstanding effort in developing student talent while creating a strong learning culture for their employees as a whole.

Ross Johnston (he/him), Executive director of co-operative education, university of waterloo

As the workforce moves past the pandemic era, in-house career mobility through upskilling talent within an organization shifts into focus. Employees want to feel valued and involved in a culture of continuous learning.

For those selected by Mediacorp Canada Inc. to win, the “learning revolution” remains important. Technology is a game changer while access to a “digital universe of educational platforms” allows employees to upskill on their time.

The Globe and Mail’s announcement references research from Waterloo’s Work-Learn Institute (WxL), which states Gen Z wants to work in organizations that support their growth.

Earning this recognition each year highlights the calibre of Waterloo’s co-op employers and their ability to adapt to the future of work.

The selection process for Canada’s Top 100 Employers uses eight criteria including health, financial and family benefits, work atmosphere, community involvement, performance management, and more. Employers of any size with a head office or principal place of business in Canada are eligible to apply for the competition.