Ahmed Hussein

Did you have any concerns or hesitations before starting?

My biggest concern before starting the Co-op was that I was not going to be challenged enough when I start working, and having to move to Ottawa for this opportunity, I was uncertain whether or not I made the right choice.

What were your expectations?

I expected that I would use some of the concepts that I have learned throughout my time at Ontario Tech in combination with learning several new skills such as teamwork, time management and project management.

How did your experience compare with your expectations?

My experience has definitely exceeded my expectations so far. The work I have been doing is much more meaningful than I could have imagined from a learning perspective and from a broader perspective in that I have a hand, although a small one, in the protection of our environment and hopefully in the protection of future generations.

How would you say you enjoyed your experience?

So far, I feel like this the best decision I could have made. I have learned so much in a short period of time with no signs of slowing down and have made many new connections throughout Environment Canada as a whole and not just my own department.

In a few sentences, explain your position. Please provide details about your daily tasks, projects, and responsibilities.

I work as an intern for the vehicle engine testing and emission verification division of Environment Canada, specifically with the motorcycle, off-road and marine engines team. Some of my daily tasks include preparing requests to manufacturers for testing, preparing test plans, reviewing test results and making recommendations to the senior program engineers on what we should do with specimens based on their results.

What was your proudest moment? 

My proudest moment so far was attending an event that included representatives from all the major motorcycle manufacturers in Canada and being able to speak and network with them, while also gaining valuable experience from the event itself. 

What was your work atmosphere like? (flexibility, formality, team-centric, supportive)

The overall atmosphere is relaxed and casual, my two supervisors were always available any time I had a question. Although the atmosphere is relaxed my co-workers always maintained a professional yet positive attitude. Weekly department meetings ensured that everyone was kept up to speed with what was going on from new specimens being acquired to any changes happening throughout the department (such as budget meetings to determine what specimens were going to be acquired next and so on).

Did you feel that any training and/or support available to you was helpful or beneficial to you?

When I first started, there were several safety presentations/training sessions that were very beneficial. In addition, being a government employee, I was enrolled in French classes that would be a big advantage for opportunity advancement. There was also a training session on conflict management that would greatly benefit me in future office roles.

What advice would you offer to students thinking about pursuing co-op or internship?

My advice to other students is that, in my opinion, an Internship/Co-op is a must when doing undergrad. Personally, when I first started school my goal was to graduate as quickly as possible and find a job when I finish school. But after starting the internship I’ve learned so much more that has helped me reinforce concepts I have already learned and expanded on so many others.