On October 9, 2024, the University of Waterloo's Co-operative and Experiential Education team honoured the Region of Waterloo with the 2023 Employer Impact Award for Student Experience.

The Region's Waste Management division was recognized for its significant impact on the University of Waterloo student community by providing stimulating work terms in positive, thriving environments and understanding the importance of skills development through experiential learning. The Region was selected from over 100 nominations in this category.

"On behalf of Regional Council, I'd like to thank the University of Waterloo's Co-operative and Experiential Education team for this honour and the opportunity to learn from and help develop the next generation of talent that will inspire and lead our community," said Colleen James, Regional Councillor and Chair of the Sustainability, Infrastructure, and Development Committee.

The Region's Waste Management division has been participating in the University's co-op program for over 20 years, hiring over 150 students. Many former students have continued to work in the waste management industry, including returning to work in the Region's Waste Management division.

"The Region of Waterloo Waste Management division provides meaningful work experiences for Waterloo co-op students that focus on their personal and professional growth," said Norah McRae, Associate Provost, Co-operative and Experiential Education at the University of Waterloo. "Congratulations to the Region for its Employer Impact Award and thank you for helping to prepare Waterloo students for the future of work."

To learn about the award and Waste Management's story, read Hire Waterloo's article, Training and community outreach benefit the Region of Waterloo and their co-op students.