Learning That Works
By Sara Elliott
Lauren Schmidt, engineering co-op student, earned valuable hands-on experence, mentored by Krista Pressault-Ammonite, Quality Planning Manager at NextStar Energy. | Photo by Michael Wilkins.
The University of Windsor’s Co-op Program connects students’ classroom learning with full-time, paid work in 45 programs across various disciplines.
Through job-readiness support and reflective learning, co-op graduates leave with the experience, confidence and connections they need to thrive professionally.
Mechanical engineering student Lauren Schmidt was part of the first cohort of co-op students at Windsor’s NextStar Energy battery plant.
“I’ve been using some software that’s specific to NextStar Energy to create data visualizations,” she said. “I also created standard operating procedures for the different machines in the lab, as well as creating video standard operating procedures for future training purposes.”
The experience opened Schmidt’s eyes to potential opportunities right here at home.
“I thought I’d have to move away for opportunities like this, but being at NextStar has shown me that Windsor has a lot to offer,” she said. “I got to work with and learn from actual engineers on real-life projects.”
A joint venture between Stellantis and LG Energy Solution, the plant is Canada’s first battery module production facility of its kind.
The co-operative education partnership with NextStar Energy gave opportunities to UWindsor students to work side by side with professionals working at Canada's first large-scale, lithium-ion battery manufacturer. | Photo by Michael Wilkins.
Computer science student Meet Solanki found a perfect balance between honing technical skills and making meaningful community contributions during his work placement as a data specialist assistant at the South Essex Community Council (SECC).
“SECC’s mission to help people and create a positive impact resonated with me and I wanted to work in an environment where I could take on significant responsibilities while growing both professionally and personally,” said Solanki.
Solanki helped streamline operations while getting hands-on experience in database governance, analytics and cybersecurity.
“My co-op experience has reinforced that IT projects are not just about coding but about aligning solutions with real-world user needs through structured execution,” he explained.
After successfully navigating the co-op process, Solanki encourages future students to be proactive in their roles and not wait for tasks to be assigned.
“Networking is key, so connect with colleagues, engage in different teams and build meaningful relationships.”
Daniela Aguilar was part of the first cohort of co-op students from the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences. Her placement at Ready, Set, Go, a cornerstone of support for new Canadian families in Windsor, helped address challenges like poverty, social isolation and poor health.
“The opportunity to be a family support assistant was an amazing foundation for my career goal because they aid in addressing a variety of barriers for families and their children including low income, nutrition and social isolation,” she said.
Aguilar spends her days between Ready, Set, Go’s EarlyON Drop-In Centre and office and the Matthew House Refugee Centre.
“I engage with families and children ages birth to six by educating them about the importance of exercise, nutrition and mental stimulation,” she said.
"My co-op experience has reinforced that IT projects are not just about coding but about aligning solutions with real-world user needs through structured execution."
Meet Solanki, Computer Science student
Meet Solanki (left) and Luis Palacios, Department Coordinator - Data Specialist (right) at the South Essex Community Council office. | Photo provided by SECC.
