Have you ever admired a company from afar? Popped onto their website every once in a while to see if there happen to be any openings?

That was me with WEtech Alliance. I had seen their engaging events online, voted on their popular Tech Awards, and held those individuals that I knew from the organization in very high regard. I often thought, “How do I join the team?”

Thanks to Canada Summer Jobs, I finally found my opportunity. Squeaking in under the age cap at 29, I was thrilled to see an Event Coordinator position become available. This opportunity was truly a dream come true for me, as I’ve had this organization on my radar as an organization I would love to work for.

To reflect on a period in life that was very brief yet very impactful seems like a daunting task.

In my role as an Event Coordinator, I had the privilege of working closely with community partners and founders from various industries. I was able to attend several events and meetups where I had the chance to connect with entrepreneurs, startup founders, and other individuals who are passionate about the tech industry. These networking opportunities allowed me to learn more about the industry and the people who are driving innovation in the region. I also had the chance to learn about various programs and initiatives that are designed to support local startups and entrepreneurs. These opportunities have allowed me to expand my professional network, which I believe is essential. Establishing meaningful connections benefit both parties in terms of opportunities to share ideas, successes, and failures to help each other learn and grow.

From my very first day, the entire WEtech team has made me feel valued and included, making my venture into a new industry and environment an easy transition. I never felt hesitant to ask a question to any member of the team; everyone’s approachability made me feel comfortable from the start.

As someone who has typically preferred work from home positions in the past, the nicknames shared, puns, and welcoming spirit make the WEtech office a place that I like to spend time. The WEtech team combines humor and professionalism, making work feel fun and uplifting and I am very grateful for the friendships that I have built within this role.

Not only does the WEtech team foster a culture of inclusion and acceptance, but the team knows how to work as hard as they play. Although the team may be small, it is a stacked roster of passionate individuals in each of their fields. The WEtech team truly lives by the philosophy of “Founders First” and it was amazing to see the synergies between industry, academia, and community partners that happen within the WEtech atmosphere.

I am extremely grateful for the opportunity that WEtech Alliance has given me to work with such an amazing team. I can confidently say that this experience has been an essential steppingstone in my career. WEtech Alliance is the perfect organization for anyone who is passionate about the future of Windsor-Essex and Chatham-Kent, and is looking for an organization that is dedicated to making a change.

I am thrilled to share that my journey at WEtech is not over, as I will be continuing my employment as the new Manager of Talent Programs and Engagement. I am eager to contribute to the growth and success of the WEtech team with great enthusiasm and purpose in my new position and excited to face new challenges and work together with the team to achieve our goals.

I am thankful for the opportunity to continue growing my career in such a dynamic and forward-thinking organization. Working with our small but capable team, I am eager to assist in attracting, developing, and retaining top talent, and to help WEtech Alliance achieve its mission of driving innovation and growth in the region.

As I prepare to start this new chapter, I am excited about what the future holds and look forward to the new challenges and experiences that lie ahead.

Editors Note: Special thanks to Windsor-West MP Brian Masse for his continued assistance and support of the Canada Summer Jobs program. Learn more about our past Canada Summer Jobs graduates HERE.