For many students, the food and beverage industry may seem unfamiliar and unconventional, which drew Alex Sooley, a Talent and Organizational Development co-op student from the University of Waterloo to his placement at Conestoga Meats.
“I was looking to challenge myself in an unfamiliar sector, one that is unique amongst other students. This position presented an opportunity to explore aspects of human resources that are not apparent in alternative industries,” he explains.
His WIL placement at Conestoga Meats allowed him to step outside of his comfort zone and explore the intricacies of HR in a new and evolving sector.
By diving into an industry he had no prior experience in, Alex gained practical skills that he might not have developed elsewhere. His role offered valuable insights into the sector’s operations, providing a well-rounded view of HR’s functions in a high-tech, fast-paced industry like food and beverage processing.
Hands-On Experience in Human Resources
During his placement, Alex was involved in various HR projects, giving him a wealth of experience that will undoubtedly benefit him as he continues in his career.
“Throughout my time at Conestoga Meats, I was involved in a range of HR activities that provided me with hands-on experience,” he says. “Over the past 20 months, I’ve contributed to several meaningful projects and developments, including recruitment processes, social media content creation, business analytics, systems management, and staffing initiatives,”
This diverse range of responsibilities enabled Alex to gain a practical understanding of HR operations within the food and beverage processing industry. The placement allowed him to develop a broad skill set while seeing firsthand how these functions contribute to the company’s success.
Discovering Ontario’s Food and Beverage Processing Sector
One of the most significant aspects of Alex’s WIL experience was the insight he gained into the food and beverage processing industry. This industry plays a critical role in Ontario’s economy but may not be top-of-mind for many students.
“This field was entirely new to me, and I began with limited insights into the food and agriculture industry. During my time here, I gained valuable knowledge of its complexities and the critical role it plays in the region’s economy,” Alex reflects.
This exposure to the inner workings of the sector provided him with a newfound appreciation for the industry’s importance and the many opportunities it offers. The placement has even made him consider a potential future in the field.
“It’s something I would consider, and I am open to exploring further opportunities in the future,” he says.
Tosswill highlights the importance of students engaging with the sector firsthand.
“There are often misconceptions about the food production sector, and we aim to change that by inviting students to experience our work firsthand,” she says. “By engaging with us, they can share insights about what we do and gain a deeper understanding of the industry.”
The Role of Innovation in the Industry
One of the most unexpected aspects of working in Ontario’s food and beverage industry, for Alex, was the level of technological innovation that is driving the sector forward.
“What surprised me most about working in the food and beverage processing industry was the level of technological innovation driving the sector,” he says. “The sophisticated automation systems, robotics, and advanced data analytics revealed how tech has transformed traditional practices and enabled rapid adaptation to market demands.”
The integration of technology within the food and beverage processing industry has not only improved efficiency but also created a dynamic and evolving workplace. For students like Alex, this offers an exciting opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking industry at the forefront of innovation.
Encouraging Others to Explore the Food and Beverage Processing Industry
For students considering their own WIL placements, Alex is a strong advocate for exploring opportunities in Ontario’s food and beverage processing sector.
“I’ve been encouraging others to explore this industry because my experience has been so positive,” he says. “If you enjoy diverse work opportunities and want to experience an interactive workplace, the food and agriculture industry is perfect for you.”
