A student at Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Moose Jaw campus, studying the institution's Architectural Technologies diploma, is being celebrated as Co-op Student of the Year, thanks to her passionate fusion of art, engineering, and math, and her efforts at several co-operative work terms.
Olivia Haidl said she didn't know if the field of architecture was a good fit for her before her brother found Sask Polytech's diploma program online and suggested she investigate it. The co-operative education component, offering real-world practical experience while completing the diploma, is what convinced her to enroll. She entered the program straight out of Sheldon William Collegiate in Regina.
"I knew I would experience what the work was like and if it was a good fit for me and my future career," Heidl explained. “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 completed three work terms at the RCMP depot, Brandt, and at JCK Engineering — where she's excited to begin employment as a structural technologist after graduating this spring. During her work terms, she gained experience working on everything from 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 said. "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.
"I've noticed how much I've grown, my confidence has increased. 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. 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,” said Eleah Gallagher, president of JCK Engineering and a 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!”
Haidl recommends Sask Polytech’s Architectural Technologies Diploma and said 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, said “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.”
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 saskpolytech.ca/co-op. To learn more about the Co-operative Education Student of the Year award, visit Co-operative Education Student of the Year (saskpolytech.ca).