Navigating the Current Job Market: an information and networking event for recent AEC graduates
January 29, 2024 – The Centre for Continuing Education at John Abbott College hosted a special event titled “Navigating the Current Job Market” on Monday, January 29 at 5:30 p.m. in the John Abbott College Library. This unique event aimed to provide recent graduates with insights into the challenges of the current job market. The evening was partially funded by a Cooperative Education and Work Integrated Learning (CEWIL Canada) grant that also provided a stipend to 73 students during their internship experience as part of their program of study.
The event featured a distinguished panel of speakers, including seasoned HR professionals, employment advocates, business leaders, and recruiters. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from experts on navigating the challenges of the current job market. The panel was moderated by John Abbott College instructor, Gary Whittaker and featured the following guests:
- Danijel Dobric – Recruitment Supervisor, Bédard Resources
- Melissa Reis – Vice-President, Design Shopp
- Ellen Englert – Employment Counsellor, Youth Employment & Entrepreneurial Services
- Joanne Vassiliou – President and Partner, Prestige Human Resources
The highlight of the evening was a keynote address by Josef Azam, a successful entrepreneur, business owner, and motivational speaker. A John Abbott College alumnus, Josef shared a powerful story of perseverance and determination, offering valuable perspectives on the challenges faced by recent graduates and insights into the hiring process.
The event included a networking session, where attendees had the opportunity to connect with the panelists for job search advice, interview tips, and CV support. The networking session aimed to help participants expand their professional network and seek guidance from experts in the field. Isabelle Dubreuil from Carrefour jeunesse de l’Ouest-de-L’Ile, provided additional information on the support that her organization can provide to job seekers.
About CEWIL Canada
Cooperative Education and Work Integrated Learning partners with post-secondary institutions, community members, employers, government, and students to champion work-integrated learning (WIL). WIL is a model and process of experiential education which formally and intentionally integrates a student’s academic studies with learning in a workplace or practice setting. WIL experiences normally include an engaged partnership between an academic institution, a host organization/employer, and a student.
