CAPILANO UNIVERSITY
CapU recognizes top Work Integrated Learning student and partner

Capilano University (CapU) is pleased to announce Simon (Wenjun) Wang as CapU's Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Student of the Year and Gray Line Westcoast Sightseeing as CapU's WIL Partner of the Year for 2024. The awards recognize an individual and an organization for outstanding work and commitment to supporting WIL at CapU.

Wang, a student in the Bachelor of Tourism Management program, completed a WIL placement at Grouse Mountain. He started his co-op work experience as a guest services agent at the base of the mountain. 

Left to right: Simon (Wenjun) Wang (WIL Student of the Year), Magdalena Mot (senior manager, WIL) and Andrés Martínez Lima (honourable mention, WIL Student of the Year).

"Simon was determined and thoughtful as he considered employment opportunities that would allow him to develop skills while building a meaningful network at this early stage in his career journey," said Christine Dodds, co-op education coordinator and instructor. "He exemplifies how a co-op student can expand an entry level position into a season packed with new experiences that go far beyond day-to-day work duties."

Gray Line Westcoast Sightseeing (WCSS) has hired co-op students, practicum students and CapU tourism graduates for over a decade. They have been consistent supporters at various CapU events such as RiSE alumni event, industry days, and the tourism annual hiring fairs. 

"Working as a guest service specialist for WCSS has given me the essential skills to deliver outstanding customer service through effective communication between management and staff," wrote Emma Lemus, a tourism management co-op student at CapU. "The team leaders actively encouraged new ideas and proposals, creating an open and direct communication channel. My direct manager, Sharmaine Beltran, was always available to address my concerns, which contributed significantly to my work-integrated learning outcomes and a positive work environment."

Sharmaine Beltran, sales manager at WCSS, is a graduate of the School of Tourism Management at CapU and completed a co-op during her time at CapU. 

"I remember supporting her as she applied to work with WCSS back in summer 2015. It warms my heart to see our graduates eager and willing to support our co-op program. Students love seeing the possibility of a similar career path," said Dodds. 

Tourism management student Andrés Martínez Lima received honourable mention for WIL Student of the Year and Destination Greater Victoria received honourable mention for WIL Partner of the Year. 

Work-integrated learning (WIL) combines academic studies with quality workplace experiences, fostering skills, employability and lifelong learning. CapU WIL programs provide a supportive environment for students to develop professionally while contributing to local communities.

March is national WIL month and National Work-Integrated Learning Day is celebrated annually on the fourth Wednesday in March.