Two workshops help prepare Community Integration through Co-operative Education (CICE) students and graduates for career options after college. Delivered by Conestoga’s Talent Hub and supported by funding from RBC, the courses provide students with opportunities to develop career-readiness skills and explore the world of entrepreneurship.
Two workshops supported CICE students' and grads' career journeys.
The CICE program is a two-year program designed to provide individuals with exceptionalities and other significant learning challenges the opportunity to experience college life and enhance their academic and vocational skills with modified programming and support from Learning Strategists.
During their time at Conestoga, students receive support through every step of their educational journey. “The hard part is the transition that happens after graduation,” explained Christ Hussey, Access & Inclusion Officer. “We wanted to fill the gaps and focus on soft skills that help with employability.”
Two workshops focused on workforce readiness and entrepreneurship were offered through the RBC Trades Leadership Toolbox, an initiative focused on skills development and career readiness. The workshops helped participants build skills and confidence for employment, entrepreneurship and community engagement.
The first workshop, held over the course of eight three-hour sessions, addressed employment readiness. “During the CICE program, the students do field placements to build their professional abilities,” explained Hussey. “But they might still need extra support in discovering their particular strengths.” Workshop participants spent time exploring their abilities and interests, while also practicing interview, self-presentation and workplace communication skills. They also received training on how to disclose a disability in the workplace and communicate their needs.
For the workshop, Hussey consulted with the Canadian Council of Rehabilitation and Work (CCRW), a national, not-for-profit organization which promotes and supports meaningful and equitable employment of persons with disabilities. As a result, several participants received immediate referrals based on their skills and needs.
The second workshop, held over the course of four three-hour sessions, invited participants to learn more about entrepreneurship. “Traditional, 9-to-5 employment isn’t always the most viable, but entrepreneurship can be a valid pathway for some,” said Hussey. Supported by local entrepreneur coach Jon Johnson of Bearface Design in Kitchener, the sessions allowed participants to dive deeper into entrepreneurship as a future career. “Having a local entrepreneur volunteer his time is really helpful. He has a wealth of knowledge that’s incredibly valuable.”
Similar workshops were piloted in 2025 and have expanded with RBC’s funding support this year. “We want to recognize the meaningful difference that RBC has made with their commitment. Thanks to RBC, we are able to assist in paying for costs associated with workplace readiness and entrepreneurship - whether that’s first aid courses, workplace safety training or business cards,” said Melissa McNown-Smith, Manager, Career Services. “This support plays a critical role in opening pathways for individuals who have historically faced barriers to education, employment and full participation in community life.”
Conestoga’s Talent Hub is a one-stop virtual and in-person service and support hub for career and employment advising, co-op and work-integrated learning. The Talent Hub assists students and alumni with their career and employment journey. For industry and employers, the Talent Hub offers various services including mentorship, co-op experiences, job fairs, recruitment and more.