Brandon University’s Co‑operative Education (Co‑op) Program is preparing to spotlight a year of exceptional student success and employer partnerships at a special community impact event on Tuesday, June 16. The gathering comes at a time when youth unemployment and the transition from education to meaningful work are dominating national conversations, with federal reports underscoring the growing importance of work‑integrated learning in helping students build confidence, experience, and professional networks.
This year’s event will bring together students, employers, alumni, faculty, university leadership, community partners, and government representatives at the Glen P. Sutherland Gallery of Art. The celebration will highlight the program’s momentum, including strong employment outcomes and expanding partnerships across Manitoba and beyond. Co‑op students have secured placements in a wide range of sectors such as technology, agriculture, mining, health care, research, communications, government, and community development.
Cora Dupuis, Director of Co‑operative Education at BU, says the program’s success reflects a broader shift in how employers and communities view experiential learning. When students are trusted with meaningful responsibilities early in their careers, she notes, they consistently rise to the challenge — gaining confidence, clarity, and a stronger sense of their place in the workforce.
The evening will feature reflections from current Co‑op students and alumni, who will share how hands‑on learning shaped their career paths and strengthened their transition into professional roles. For many, these opportunities have been transformative, offering a first chance to contribute to real projects, solve real problems, and see their skills valued in professional settings.
The event also marks an important milestone for the program as it continues to expand partnerships with employers and community organizations. Dupuis says more organizations now recognize that supporting students is not only mentorship — it’s workforce development, succession planning, and long‑term talent retention.
Doors open at 5 p.m., with the formal program beginning at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.
