OSPE - The Voice - September 2016 - 23

careerS T he labour market challenges facing engineering-degree holders in Ontario are well-known and top of mind to many stakeholders. Experiential learning (co-op programs, internships, and work placements) are correctly viewed as bridging the theoretical and technical knowledge that students gain in the classroom with hands-on experience needed to enter the workforce. As OSPE identified in its recent submission to the Premier's Highly Skilled Workforce Strategy Expert Panel, the benefits of participating in the Experiential Learning programs are real and many for both students and their employers. The 2013 National Graduate Survey found that bachelor's degree-holders who completed a co-op program were - in comparison to their non-co-op counterparts - more likely to report being employed in a job related to their education with higher earnings. Siemens Canada understands these challenges, but also recognizes the importance of investing in the current and future generations of engineers and engineering technologists through Siemens Canada Engineering and Technology Academy (SCETA). With over 35 years of experience in professional engineering and technical operations executive management, the Academy is led by Dr. Tom Murad, Ph.D., P.Eng., FEC, SM.IEEE, whose passion for engineering and education is unmistakable and infectious. The Academy provides students and Siemens' engineers with the educational and professional development required to build successful engineering careers. "At Siemens Canada, we believe that the main contributor to innovation is our people," Dr. Murad explains. "The spirit of innovation was embedded in Siemens from day one. This spirit has made Siemens a global leader, and is emphasized clearly in our latest branding as SIEMENS - Ingenuity for Life." In partnership with the Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME), and with funding from the Ministry of Employment and Social Development Canada in its first Year Pilot, the Siemens Canada Dual Education Program is an innovative, unique program that provides engineering and engineering technology students with the opportunity to 'earn as they learn.' Students participate in the program during their last two years of study, working as Siemens Canada employees, attending in person two four-month Academy sessions, earning a full-time salary, with the additional advantage of having their last two years of tuition paid by Siemens. Upon graduation, select students are offered full-time employment in one of Siemens Canada's nine divisions. Dr. Murad underscores that the culture of education is not unique to Siemens Canada, but a hallmark of Siemens and the value it places on investing in its employees around the world through training and talent development. Students from McMaster University, Mohawk College, the University of Waterloo, the University of Alberta, and the September 2016 The VOICe 23

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of OSPE - The Voice - September 2016