Technical Help Times Two
ExcelSystems Software Development Inc. (ESDI) hired Sacha Cooper, a Computer Systems Technology co-op program student, to help with a major redesign of their public website. "We really didn’t have a resource available internally so having someone like Sacha join our staff on a temporary basis was perfect," says Kevin Cronin, Director of Services & Operations.
Then ESDI hired her for her second work term. This time she customized web applications for the clients of their Professional Services team. Coinciding with an extended absence of one of their developers, "her additional technical knowledge from a second year of studies and some on-site education prepared Sacha to do a great job filling in under rather difficult circumstances," says Cronin.
Affordable and knowledgeable
ESDI, partnered with Business Computer Design International Inc., develops and supports programmer development tools and utilities for the IBM midrange marketplace, serving clients such as Universal Music, Goodyear, Mitsubishi, Fuso Trucks and Formica.
Relatively new to the co-op process, ESDI staff quickly realized hiring a co-op student is an excellent and affordable way to augment available staff: "They are a pleasure to work with, keen to learn and not yet set in their ways or have too many pre-conceived ideas."
Improving technical skills
After seven years of traveling, surfing and tree planting, Sacha decided it was time for a change. She upgraded her high-school math and then enrolled in Camosun’s Computer Systems Technology program.
Through her work experience, Cooper feels better prepared for the ‘real world’ of the computer industry and better understands the balance between client’s expectations and realistic goals. "I am continually learning everyday. My technical and communication skills have improved significantly because I’ve had the chance to work directly with clients."
The Computer Systems Technology two-year Diploma program with optional co-op produces graduates with a variety of skills in programming and design. Graduates are able to work in both small systems environments and larger enterprises.
Find out more
Learn more about co-op education and internships from Camosun College’s Co-op department website or email coop@camosun.bc.ca
Interested in Camosun’s Computer Systems Technology program? Start here
