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Name:
Dorothy
Hometown:
Brantford, Ontario (Home of Wayne Gretzky!)
University/College & discipline:
McMaster University, Structural/Geotechnical Civil Engineering
I chose Engineering as my area of study because I have always been strong in the subjects of math and science. Also this program enables me to go directly into my career upon graduation as opposed to requiring further study. However, if I choose to, I can continue my studies in a masters program.
I chose McMaster University because it has a fantastic engineering program with a general first year. I was able to choose my area of study in second year after being exposed to different disciplines through first year courses. In addition, I was interested in McMaster University's co-op program that allowed me to do a 16-month work term as part of my degree.
Position at OPG:
I am a Co-op Student working in the Civil Engineering Department in Sir Adam Beck GS in Niagara Falls.
Typical day & duties:
My job has no typical days. I work with various individuals doing various activities every day. During the summer months I work mostly with a technician traveling to various OPG sites and surveying the dams. During the winter months I work in the office writing reports, solving problems, etc. I have had such an amazing experience at OPG and it's due to the wide variety of work and “untypical” days.
What made you choose this position at OPG?
I chose OPG because, after doing some research of the company, I realized that OPG is very dedicated to its employees and surrounding communities. Furthermore, OPG offered me a 16-month work term which included both office and field work. I knew OPG would give me a wide range of experiences and perhaps help me decide what area of Civil Engineering I would like to work in the future.
What's the best part about working at OPG?
I enjoy OPG because it is a great company to work for. Fellow employees are supportive and you never feel like you are “just a student”. I have had the opportunity to use my energy both working in the office and out in the field gaining valuable work experience.
The OPG atmosphere:
OPG is not all work. There are social events being organized all the time. It allows the employees to interact with each other outside the work environment. For example, semi-annually the Civil Engineering Department organizes a two day Civil Alliance Workshop. This allows individuals working in this department from all OPG locations to get together and share their experiences whether they are problems they have encountered or successes. OPG's annual Charity Campaign “Your Charity, Your Community, Your Choice”, invites employees to support local and world-wide charities through group activities such as office bingo, United Way BBQ, bake sales or CN Tower stair climb. Every year there is an OPG day at Wonderland or at a Toronto Raptors' game. As a student you have the opportunity to participate in twice the social activities! Not only do you have the regular OPG social events but as a student you have the opportunity to tour Sir Adam Beck dam, Nanticoke GS and Pickering GS. You also help organize student social events such as dinners, Blue Jay games, ski trips, etc. At OPG there is always time for work AND play.
Life / interests / hobbies outside work:
I enjoy doing outdoor activities such as rollerblading, playing sports and camping. This is one reason why I enjoy the field work so much! Also, being on co-op has given me the opportunity to learn new things like how to play the guitar and do things that, with school, you never seem to have time for like painting, photography and working out.
Future career goals:
Work as an engineer managing projects in a structural civil engineering company. |
