Posted on Tuesday, February 24th, 2026
The Co-op and Career Centre were pleased to host Talent Talks: Ciena on Feb. 19, welcoming 75 students from targeted technical programs together with leaders from one of the world’s foremost optical networking and technology companies. Held on the first floor within the School of Advanced Technology, for an afternoon of learning and industry connection. The session supported students preparing to pursue Fall 2026 Co-op.
Ciena’s presentation was delivered by Sean Keppy, Senior Manager of Systems Design Architecture Engineering, Emily Aubin, Senior Manager of Early in Career Programs and Payton Ward, representing the Intern, Talent Acquisition, Early in Career Programs. Students gained valuable insight into Ciena’s organizational culture, the types of Co-op roles available and the application process and timelines.
Following the presentation, there was an engaging Q&A and networking session. Students explored career pathways in network engineering, systems design and emerging technologies directly with industry professionals.
The Co-op and Career Centre extend its thanks to Ciena for supporting our learners and to the faculty who encouraged students to participate. We look forward to continuing to foster opportunities that strengthen industry partnerships and aid students in building meaningful, real-world experience.
Posted on Thursday, February 12th, 2026
On behalf of the Co-op & Career Centre, we extend our gratitude to the Algonquin College community for participating in the Career Networking Fair 2026, the largest on-campus recruitment and networking event.
Held on Feb. 10, the fair brought together over 77 employers from the region, creating a vibrant platform for top talent to explore diverse career opportunities. Our learners also benefited from a series of preparation workshops, honing job preparation strategies, networking skills, and techniques to stand out in the competitive job market.
The Career Networking Fair by the Numbers:
- 77 employers, opening doors to numerous opportunities.
- 1000+ job postings, including full-time, part-time, summer, and co-op positions.
- 2100+ students and alumni were engaged with employers.
- 35+ Experiential Learning opportunities in collaboration with the Volunteer Centre, providing practical experience.
A special shout-out to our internal partners, including AC Corp. Comms, AC Digital, Student Support Services, Mamidosewin Centre, and International Education Centre, for amplifying the event.
Thank you to the faculty and support staff for your continued support of Algonquin College’s learners and the Co-op & Career Centre.
Posted on Friday, November 28th, 2025
The Co-op and Career Centre successfully hosted the IBM Z Connect Event on Nov. 20. The session introduced students to IBM Z — the branch of IBM that develops mainframe computers powering millions of secure transactions every day, from bank withdrawals to airline bookings.
The event brought together students from 13 programs, such as Artificial Intelligence Software Development, Bachelor of Technology (Business Systems Development) and Cloud Development and Operations, alongside IBM representatives, to explore career pathways in mainframe technology. Students had the opportunity to learn about IBM Z’s critical role in global industries, discover how companies rely on mainframes for efficiency and security, and gain insights into building industry-relevant skills through IBM Z Xplore courses.
The Co-op and Career Centre would like to thank IBM, the faculty and all participating students for making the event a success. We look forward to continuing to support students in building meaningful industry connections and preparing for careers in emerging technologies.
Posted on Wednesday, November 26th, 2025
On Nov. 26, the Co‑op & Career Centre, in collaboration with the Security Centre of Excellence (SCoE), hosted an exclusive information session for students in public safety and technology programs. The event highlighted career opportunities in Canada’s federal security. It featured a moderated panel discussion exploring pathways in cybersecurity, public safety and personnel security, while offering a perspective on the evolving needs of the federal workforce.
The panel brought together leaders from across government:
- Marc Decary, Deputy Director, Technical and Digital Learning Centre, Global Affairs Canada, emphasized immersive training to build mission‑ready digital skills.
- Yasmine Touijer, Human Resources Advisor, Public Service Commission, outlined modern recruitment practices designed to connect talent nationwide.
- Eric Blanke, Intake Manager, Personnel Security Screening Office (PSSO), Directorate of the Personnel Security and Identity Management (DPSIM), Director General Defence Security (DGDS), Department of National Defence, shared insights on personnel security, identity management, and the importance of attention to detail.
- Nathalie El-Haddad, Acting Team Lead, Personnel Security Screening Office (PSSO), Directorate of the Personnel Security and Identity Management (DPSIM), Director General Defence Security (DGDS), Department of National Defence, shared her experience from transitioning from an entry-level role into a full-time continuous position.
- Robert Provencher, Manager & Senior Advisor, Capacity Building, Security Centre of Excellence, moderated the discussion and underscored the role of community development and readiness.
Students left with clear takeaways: Federal security careers are diverse, recruitment practices are evolving, and capacity building across departments is essential to resilience. Above all, the session reinforced that security work in Canada is mission-driven, focused not only on protecting assets but on building trust, fostering innovation and serving the public good.
Posted on Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025
On Sept. 2, 2025, aligned with the events of AC Day 1, the Co-op & Career Centre hosted an Open House! This event welcomed students new to co-op programs, offering them a chance to explore the wide range of co-op resources available to support their career development and boost their professional profiles.
The Open House was more than just an introduction — it was a networking opportunity where students connected with the co-op employees and began building the relationships that will help shape their future success.
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by! We’re committed to creating more spaces that empower students to grow, connect, and thrive in their career journeys.
Visit the Co-op & Career Centre website to learn more.