MOOSE JAW — Olivia Haidl found a unique way to blend her love for art and math in Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s at Moose Jaw campus. Initially unaware of the program and uncertain if the field of architecture was a good fit, Haidl's interest was piqued when her brother found the diploma program online and suggested she investigate it. The co-operative education component convinced her to enrol. Now she is 小蓝视频 celebrated as .
Coming straight from high school at Sheldon William Collegiate in Regina, Haidl was drawn to the Sask Polytech’s co-operative education work terms, which promised real-world experience. "The co-op work terms were one of the main reasons I chose Architectural Technologies," she says. "I knew I would experience what the work was like and if it was a good fit for me and my future career."
She adds, “Everything we do in the Architectural Technologies program is practical and it’s all thoughtfully planned out. I’ve used the skills I learned in the classroom during my co-op placements.”
Haidl's co-op experiences have been diverse and enriching. She completed three work terms at the RCMP depot, Brandt and JCK Engineering. Each term offered unique challenges and learning opportunities, from working on commercial buildings to small renovation projects. Her favorite co-op term was at JCK Engineering, where she delved into structural design, a specialty not as heavily focused on in her coursework. "I went in wanting to learn and there was a lot to learn," she recalls. "Because of my previous work terms, I felt confident in asking questions, sharing when I didn't know something and presenting my work. I was able to work on a lot of unique projects, it was really rewarding.”
Haidl's journey has not been without its challenges. She admits to feeling nervous when she first started her co-op terms, particularly about the interviews. However, co-operative education’s emphasis on resume writing, cover letters and interview practice helped ease her anxieties.
As she prepares to graduate this spring, Haidl reflects on her time at Sask Polytech. "I'm really grateful," she says. "I've noticed how much I've grown, my confidence has increased. It feels great to be recognized as co-op student of the year and have a job secured before graduation!"
“JCK Engineering has been hiring Sask Polytech co-op students for over two decades,” says Eleah Gallagher, president of JCK Engineering and structural engineer. “We have hired numerous Sask Polytech graduates as permanent full-time employees. We value the high-quality technical training and education Architectural Technologies students gain at Sask Polytech. Olivia exceeded our expectations during her work term and she is very deserving of this recognition. We are excited for her to join our team permanently!”
Looking ahead, Haidl is excited to return as a member of the JCK Engineering team as a structural technologist this spring after she completes her diploma. With her education and co-op experiences, she feels well-prepared for her career. "It's a great program to learn and apply yourself," she advises prospective students. "It's a lot of work, but it's very rewarding. You learn so much and it's fast-paced. Most importantly, you get to solve real-world problems and see what the profession is like through co-op work terms."
Haidl recommends Sask Polytech’s Architectural Technologies and says the interior design side of the program enabled her to use her sketching skills and creative problem-solving abilities. “I’m always problem solving, always working on creative solutions. I’m excited to keep learning.”
Angela Deans, program head for Architectural Technologies shares, “Co-op education offers invaluable hands-on experience and mentorship to our students. Congrats to Olivia, she has demonstrated outstanding technical skills, professionalism and a strong work ethic during her time in the program. Her ability to collaborate effectively with her peers and contribute positively to group projects paired with her technical skills to make her an excellent choice for this award.”
“For the past 40 years, Sask Polytech’s co-operative education program has been instrumental in launching the careers of countless students,” says Ian Morrison, Co-operative Education program head. “We currently place students from 15 different programs, and that number is on the rise as more programs recognize the significant advantages of co-operative education. We are extremely proud to celebrate Olivia and her outstanding accomplishments.”
The Co-op Student of the Year award is part of National Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Month, an initiative led by Co-operative Education and Work-Integrated Learning Canada (CEWIL Canada). CEWIL promotes the value of co-operative education programs at 79 universities, colleges and polytechnicals across Canada.
For more information about co-operative education, visit our website: . To learn more about the Co-operative Education Student of the Year award, visit .
