Georgian College is a College of Applied Arts and Technology that has built an unmatched reputation for relevant, cutting-edge curriculum and quality work experience in the Ontario region. They take pride in providing real value to our students, grads, employers and communities. 

Georgian College is partnering with the Barrie Chamber of Commerce to co-develop an employer engagement model for small- to medium-sized employers (SMEs) to participate in WIL in a rural context. This project seeks to educate SMEs  on effective collaboration with the region's key post-secondary institutions, Georgian College and Lakehead University Orillia Campus, and guide them in leveraging various work-integrated learning methods. This multifaceted approach aims to foster a progressive and relevant talent recruitment strategy for participating employers.

The project will bring together novel forms of WIL offered through Georgian’s Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship area under an initiative called the Collaboratory. The Collaboratory will act as a catalyst for introducing employers to the evolving landscape of workplace requirements, enhancing their understanding of emerging trends and expectations, and positioning them to attract top-tier talent in an ever-evolving business landscape.

Participating employers will achieve a Changemaker Workplace designation that demonstrates their commitment to fostering a work environment aligned with the values and skills of the emerging workforce. This designation will, in turn, help students who complete their Georgian Changemaker Micro-Certificate find workplaces that match the values and skills they have acquired through social purpose WIL opportunities. 

For more information about Georgian College, visit: https://www.georgiancollege.ca/