Co-op programs in any industry are gaining popularity because of the amount of valuable hands-on experience students receive and also the edge they get against competition when job hunting.

In the energy industry, there are many companies that offer co-op and internship programs designed to educate and better prepare students interested in entering a career in this field. Hydroelectric power is just one sector that is interested in hiring young and experienced graduates.

According to Nancy Shaddick, communications officer at Hydro One, past co-op students are often considered for future opportunities with the company.

During their co-op term, students work alongside engineers or other professionals to assist Hydro One with projects, she says. The work is usually drawn upon the knowledge students gain from their specific studies. The actual tasks will vary upon the role but students will have the opportunity to do meaningful, career-related work.

Hydro One offers two different types of training programs for students in college or university. The co-op is only open to students enrolled in a registered co-op program through their institution. However, they also offer developmental student opportunities for students interested in a summer work placement and who aren't necessarily registered in a co-op program through their school.

Co-op programs can also be found at other provincial hydro companies such as Manitoba Hydro and BC Hydro.

Students should also be aware of other types of training opportunities offered in the energy sector. The Oxford Princeton Programme is a company that offers corporate training in this industry.

According to Jobert Abueva, vice president of global sales and marketing, their organization offers public training courses around the world, onsite training for clients, and web-based courses available 24/7. Their courses cover a variety of energy topics including oil, gas, and renewable sources like hydro.

Although we are focused on professionals who are already in the energy sector, there has been explosive growth in programs and students who are interested in the energy sector, he says. Career prospects are very good in that sector. And these prospects are directly related to the boom in employment in this field. With a global average wage of over $85,937 that is expected to increase, it's no wonder talented young people are flocking to the industry.

In order to gain the interest of students and recent graduates, The Oxford Princeton Programme is offering two scholarships'one for Canadians and one for Americans'that will cover all of the costs associated with the 1┬¡┬¡ÔÇô5 day training course plus an all-expenses-paid trip to Calgary or Houston, the energy hubs of North America.

What we wanted to do was kind of get involved in educating people about the energy sector and giving an opportunity for students to participate in our programs because they are highly regarded within the energy sector, says Abueva.

Taking advantage of opportunities like these allow you to stand out as an applicant and give you the added bonus of real work experience and the chance to network with experts in your field.

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