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Work-Learn Institute research shows increase in students’ teamwork and critical thinking after taking part in the program. WE Accelerate aims to help vulnerable first work-term co-op students build skills to enhance employment for subsequent work terms – and according to research, it has achieved that goal.

In a panel discussion at the 2023 THE MENA Universities Summit, experts including Anne-Marie Fannon, director of the Work-Learn Institute (WxL) at the University of Waterloo, explore how experiential learning can drive graduate success and talent development. The conversation emphasizes the importance of authentic, hands-on internships that empower students to lead, collaborate and build essential interpersonal skills. Fannon highlights that treating students as employees and giving them meaningful work leads to stronger outcomes for learners, institutions and employers. Through its global partnerships and leadership in work-integrated learning, the University of Waterloo continues to shape future-ready pathways for student success.

Dr. David Drewery, associate director of the University of Waterloo’s Work-Learn Institute (WxL), highlights how employers can better attract and retain Gen Z talent by understanding their distinct work values. His research reveals that Gen Z places particular importance on job stability, equity, and opportunities for growth, differentiating them from previous generations. Drewery emphasizes the role of work-integrated learning (WIL) programs, such as those led by Waterloo, in bringing together Gen Z and employers in authentic work environments where values and expectations can be exchanged and understood.

In a CACEE blog post, Jessica Lang, associate director of Undergraduate Career Services at the University of Waterloo, explores how the Employability Capital Growth Model (ECGM) can enhance career programming and partnerships. The model identifies nine areas of employability capital and emphasizes the importance of embracing equity, diversity and inclusion in career development. The University of Waterloo aligns with the ECGM through its inclusive advising, reflective practices and strong work-integrated learning partnerships to support students’ holistic growth. The result is a more personalized, equitable approach to helping students build confidence and navigate their career paths.

In a conversation with National Skills Network, Dr. Norah McRae, associate provost of Co-operative and Experiential Education at the University of Waterloo, highlights the transformative impact of work-integrated learning (WIL) as a global solution for bridging academic theory with real-world application. Dr. McRae emphasizes WIL’s role in enhancing employability, fostering innovation and creating reciprocal value between students and employers. Drawing on Canadian and international frameworks, she shares strategies for building inclusive, high-quality WIL ecosystems.

In an HRD Talk episode, host Emily Douglas sits down with Judene Pretti, director of the Work-Learn Institute, and co-op student Maanasa Rajaguru, third-year Faculty of Arts co-op student, from the University of Waterloo to explore how employers can more effectively engage Gen Z talent. The conversation highlights Gen Z’s desire for meaningful work and a strong sense of belonging. Pretti and Rajaguru emphasize that young workers thrive when they’re treated as valued team members whose contributions align with broader organizational goals. To connect with the next generation, organizations must foster cultures centred on growth, continuous learning and purpose.

This Giving Tuesday, we share short vignettes of the large impact a small donation can have on the lives of co-op students.

University of Waterloo's Co-operative and Experiential Education shortlisted for a QS Reimagine Education award.

In the Ottawa Sun, Linda White explores how co-operative education programs allow students to test drive careers, highlighting the University of Waterloo’s leading role with North America’s largest co-op program. Molly Furness, career advisor with Co-operative and Experiential Education (CEE), explains how this hands-on approach helps students confirm or reconsider their career goals early on. Through its Future Ready Talent Framework (FRTF), Waterloo’s co-op program allows students to develop key skills, earn income and establish professional networks, positioning them for job offers and long-term success.

New York-based Balyasny Asset Management (BAM), engaged with University of Waterloo co-op students at a fireside chat recently. On May 24, at the University of Waterloo’s Davis Centre, BAM hosted a fireside chat with one of their leaders in technology followed by a “Bubble Tea with BAM” networking session.