PEMBROKE - July 3, 2007 - Students in the Computer Systems Technician (CST) program at Algonquin College in the Ottawa Valley are getting a preview of what they can expect in their new careers.  They are participating in a paid co-operative education placement as part of their learning experience in a new program that was launched last fall at the Pembroke Campus.

Andrew Morrison, left, who is working with the Information Technology (IT) department at Algonquin College’s Pembroke Campus, says it is a great opportunity. “The co-op experience really gives us an advantage over other students taking similar programs. I’m getting invaluable work experience that will strengthen my resume when I graduate. Plus, since I’m an employee of the college, I’m getting paid too,” adds Andrew.

As part of his job at the College, Andrew is working with other IT professionals and is helping to prepare the computer lab with new networking equipment for the upcoming school year.  “I’m working in the classroom lab constructing a network that includes everything from ethernet cable to servers, to switches, and everything in between.  Having this opportunity to get my hands on the equipment of my profession is helping me turn concepts into practical application and is deepening my understanding of the topics taught in class”, Andrew explains.

Business, Technology and Outdoor Training Department Chair, Murray Kyte, says the addition of the co-op placement is very attractive to applicants.  “Employers will be hiring graduates with networking skills gained from hundreds of hours in the lab, with current computer knowledge relevant to today’s industry, and with actual hands-on experience from their paid co-op work placement”, he says.  “We expect that our graduates will be in demand,” adds Kyte. 

Some of Andrew's classmates are at CFB Petawawa, some are in the Ottawa area, and Devin Berard, below, is working in Desktop Services at Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. (AECL) in Chalk River.   

For Devin, it’s a great learning opportunity.   “At my co-op placement, I’m getting work experience in my field.  Desktop Services is a customer service role where I configure and troubleshoot PCs and am getting familiar with the kinds of computer problems people need assistance with.  My co-op work will be beneficial when I look for future employment because I’ll have work experience behind me that students in similar programs won’t have, ” adds Devin.

As part of his job at AECL, Devin works with other IT professionals who have many years’ experience troubleshooting, helping clients with computer issues, installing hardware and software, and setting up and maintaining networks within the workplace. 

“The people in the IT department are experts at what they do and I’m lucky that I can learn a lot from my co-workers and earn a pay cheque at the same time.”

When they all return to the College this fall, the co-op students will be bringing some newly-acquired skills and lots of confidence back to the classroom, qualities that will undoubtedly contribute to success in their final semester and as they begin their new careers.

The 18-month Computer Systems Technician program includes 45 weeks of class and a 4-month paid summer co-op.  Check here for details on the program curriculum.

For more information on the Computer Systems Technology Program

at the Pembroke Campus, call 613-735-4700, ext. 2756

or apply now at ontariocolleges.ca.