TRU’s Co-op Program: Bridging the Gap between Education and Employment

With an increasingly competitive job market, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has built a co-op program that provides students with relevant work experience. This program not only equips students with a good resume and cover letter, but it also enhances their ability to thrive in the workforce. Larry Ilesan, Associate Teaching Professor and faculty leader of TRU’s Career and Experimental learning department commented “TRU has crafted a co-op program that offers a practical exposure while empowering students to take control of their career paths.” To gain a fuller perspective on the programs benefits, I spoke with Larry and Quwamdeen Ajibola Iribigbe, a recent co-op student who gained hands on experience in Alberta’s logistics industry.

According to Larry, the co-op program at TRU addresses a critical need for students to acquire external work experience in line with their current program on study and their career goals. “The worst thing a student can do is graduate without any real experience outside the university”, he emphasises, that the co-op bridges a gap between theoretical learning and practical application. With the co-op experience, students can get a feel the real-world environment, learning to apply their academic knowledge in settings that demand adaptability, problem solving and professionalism. However, Larry noted that the co-op program doesn’t directly “place” students in roles. Instead, TRU has developed an innovative approach to help students find positions themselves, fostering independence and proactive decision making. Through career connections, TRU’s exclusive job-matching platform, organizations across Canada post positions that align with the co-op curriculum, allowing students to choose opportunities that fit their aspirations. “Co-op empowers students to take control of their careers and actively engage with the job market,” says Larry, adding that this aspect is essential for students in post-graduation challenges.

Recent TRU co-op student Quwamdeen Ajibola Ibiribigbe provides a fascinating perspective on how these experiences can influence a student’s future career. Quwamdeen was fully involved in the fast-paced world of logistics during his co-op time with Trimac Transportation in Alberta. To support dispatch operations, he had to track deliveries, organize shipments and keep lines of communications open with clients and drivers. As he considers his everyday duties, Quwamdeen emphasizes the value of clear communication and attention to detail. He says, “In order to prevent delays and inform clients of shipment statuses, I had to keep a close eye on routes” “From adjusting to unforeseen traffic conditions to making sure that all shipments were executed smoothly, everyday presented new challenges”. The experience strengthened his confidence and expanded professional skill set, giving him a competitive edge he might not have developed otherwise. Quwamdeen’s story underscores the transformative nature of the co-op experience, where theory meets practice and students gain insights that align with their career paths.

TRU’s co-op program goes beyond job placements – it is a well-coordinated system of partnerships across diverse industries. Larry explains that the university maintains steady relationships with a broad network of companies through regular outreach efforts, faculty participation at industry events, and direct communication with employers. These partnerships ensure a continuous influx of co-op opportunities for students in various fields, from technology and healthcare to logistics and finance. “it’s essential to build credibility with employers, and TRU’s accreditation in co-operative education assures them of the programs quality,” he adds. This longstanding tradition of work-integrated learning positions TRU’s co-op program as a vital resource for students seeking to break into competitive fields. This program has been operational since 1992. The department has three elements to it and not just the CO-OP program, this includes career services and experimental learning – It is open to all students that have the option in their program of study. Students are not chosen, they apply and based on availability and other factors are admitted into the Co-op program. 

The variety of industry partners also highlights the adaptability of TRU’s co-op program. Larry points out that co-op isn’t limited to a specific sector; rather it severs as an entry point or hub into multiple industries, allowing students to explore into multiple industries, allowing students to explore and refine their interests. From companies that require tech-savvy problem solvers to those needing hands-on management skills, TRU’s program aligns students with organisations that match their goals, ultimately broadening their careers horizons.

For many students, enrolling in co-op can be seen as daunting, as it often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. Larry notes that one of the most common challenges for TRU students is the need to relocate outside Kamloops for placements or to build confidence to apply for highly competitive positions. However, TRUs faculty members are committed to helping students overcome these obstacles, providing personalize support through one-on-one sessions. “We work closely with each student to help them overcome location-related concerns, enhance their skills and build the confidence the need to pursue ambitious goals,” Larry says. Quwamdeens journey reflects this faculty support, as his coordinator provided guidance and encouragement, helping him tackle the demands of his Alberta placements. This guidance was instrumental in helping him take on the responsibility of a demanding logistics role, and he credits his coordinators support for helping him overcome the initial apprehension of working far from home.

TRU’s co-op program is designed not only to place students in jobs but to fully equip them for professional success. Before beginning their placements, each co-op student must complete a 13-week career management course which is worth 1 credit. This course prepares students with resume building strategies, job search techniques and interview skills. Larry explains that this preparation is essential, as it ensures that students enter the job market with confidence and are ready to meet employer expectations. Once on the job, co-op students will continue to receive support through regular check-ins with faculty coordinators and even a site visit is possible. This helps students to reflect on their experience, navigate workplace challenges, and refine their skills. These touch points ensure that the transition from classroom learning to workplace application is smooth and constructive.” Our role is to help students not just secure positions but to also thrive in them,” Larry explains, emphasizing that co-op is as much about learning and growth as it is about gaining experience.

As Larry suggests, “Students need to graduate with experience that makes them stand out in today’s labor market.” Co-op gives many people the chance to explore a variety of disciplines, validate their career routes, and establish a professional network at an early stage. Larry highlights that students who wish to prosper after graduation must now have relevant work experience; it is no longer a choice. He emphasizes the value of work-integrated learning by saying, “Students across the country are doing this, and they need to be competitive.”

Quwamdeen also gives guidance to people who are thinking about co-ops but aren’t sure. He explains how his work in logistics helped him see how his education applied in the real world and opened his eyes to new career options. He urges students who might be hesitant to embrace co-op to take is as a journey of self-discovery. “You learn so much about yourself, about what you’re capable of, and about where you want to go,” he reflects.  

The co-op program at TRU has grown to be a crucial component of the university’s curriculum, preparing students for a workforce that prioritizes preparation, flexibility, and real-world experience. The curriculum serves as a link between classroom education and career success rather than just a stepping stone. According to Larry and Quwamdeen’s experiences, co-op at TRU is more than simply a choice for students; it’s a life-changing experience that gives them the abilities, perspectives, and self-assurance they need to succeed in their chosen industries.

As the need for work-integrated learning increases, TRU’s co-op program keeps developing, giving students a competitive advantage and a worthwhile chance to obtain practical experience. The success of the co-op program demonstrates the university’s dedication to students’ development, fortitude, and preparedness for the workforce, opening doors for graduates.

Quwamdeen Ajibola Ibiribigbe- current TRU student.