Name: Liz Uchida
Program: Mechanical Engineering
School: Queen’s University
Why did you want to join Bruce Power?
I chose engineering because I wanted to dedicate my career to the fight against climate change. When the time came to decide where my co-op would be, Bruce Power was the obvious choice. With Bruce Power producing 30 per cent of Ontario’s electricity, there are few other co-op placements where I could have such a direct impact on Canada’s transition to net zero.
I also chose Bruce Power because of the beautiful area and outdoor lifestyle. I absolutely love being a short walk to the beach and spending time outside after work!
What has been the highlight of your co-op?
Over the past 14 months, I have spent time in both engineering and operations. The highlight of my time in engineering was going on walkdowns to address issues. I really enjoyed listening to the discussions that happen between engineering and maintenance. I was able to learn so much from both groups as they each use their areas of expertise to create a solution, showing the power of cross-functional teamwork. I learnt so much about the station and different pieces of equipment by getting the chance to see and understand how different components work.
In operations, the highlights of my term have been going into the vault and going to see cobalt in the secondary bay. I never thought in my 16 months at Bruce Power I would get the chance to see so much. Before coming to Bruce Power, I did not know that we produced medical isotopes, but I have since become extremely interested in the program. Getting to see the cobalt glowing bright blue in the Secondary Irradiated Fuel Bay was surreal. Knowing the impact these isotopes have in the medical community made me especially proud to be a part of the company producing them.
What tips do you have for other students considering a co-op placement at Bruce Power?
My biggest tip to students who are considering a co-op placement at Bruce Power would be to apply! There are so many opportunities for students in all years of school and for placements off all different durations. Bruce Power is an amazing place to be a student. Everyone I have met here has encouraged me to learn as much as I can and to try new things.
I would also recommend that new students try to speak with a current student or employee. Bruce Power is such a huge company and there are so many different opportunities, trying to learn about different sections of the business and what their role is could help you decide where you want to be and if that section is right for you.
If you could describe your student experience in one word, what would it be?
Eye-opening
Name: Matthew Richards
Program: Engineering Physics
School: McMaster University
Why did you want to join Bruce Power?
Climate change is a problem that our generation has been tasked with finding solutions to. Knowing this, I’ve always wanted what I do in my career to be a part of those solutions. I also have a strong interest in physics. These things combined are what led to my overall interest in the nuclear energy industry. Bruce Power checks all of my boxes for what I am looking for in a future career, where I feel as though I am contributing to solutions to the climate change problem.
Bruce Power operates the largest nuclear generating site on the continent and has a wealth of operating experience doing so. It is consistently ranked among the top employers for young people, both on a local scale and on a national scale. I felt that these things combined would make for a great co-op experience — and 14 months into my co-op experience, I feel as though I made the right call!
What has been the highlight of your co-op?
I’ve been on a co-op placement with Bruce A Mechanical Engineering Fix-It-Now (EFIN) for 14 months and have gained a ton of valuable experience. This EFIN team is generally the first line of defence when it comes to troubleshooting high-priority issues and meeting the immediate needs of the station. I have two experiences that stand out as highlights.
The first one was my involvement with a high priority repair team for one of the boiler feed pumps. This repair involved support from coordination with vendors, maintenance personnel, and Bruce Power to formulate a plan and execute it. This experience was extremely valuable as I got to participate in the engineering discussion leading up to the repair, as well as being able to further my understanding by being hands on with the crew executing the plan. This field experience allowed me to understand the finer details regarding rotating equipment and the boiler feed system as a whole. Being a part of the full process from start to finish was definitely a highlight of my term thus far.
The second experience that was a highlight was putting together a proposal for a project in the Unit 1 and Unit 2 Moderator System. I worked with other engineers and nuclear operators to refine the project proposal and what the scope would entail. This gave me exposure to the project management side of engineering while also allowing me to build my own technical understanding of the moderator system and its operation. After reviewing the proposal with multiple stakeholders, I was given the opportunity to present the proposal to the Bruce A leadership team, which was a great test of my presentation skills and my ability to answer technical questions. It was great to see my work had paid off as the project proposal was endorsed by the leadership team!
What tips do you have for other students considering a co-op placement at Bruce Power?
If you are considering applying, it is absolutely worth it, regardless of where your education may be focused. Students have joined teams throughout all areas of the business — all streams of engineering and science, nuclear operations, finance, human resources, as well as communications and community relations. Throughout my time with Bruce Power, I have had the opportunity to shadow teams that I have had an interest in to expose myself to other areas of the business. This has been valuable, allowing me to build a better overall understanding of how different careers look in practice.
If you do end up pursuing a co-op placement with Bruce Power, my best advice is to always put your hand up. Some of the best experiences I’ve had have been from spontaneously volunteering for things. Although sometimes daunting, asking questions when you have them is the best way to build your technical knowledge.
If you could describe your student experience in one word, what would it be?
Exciting
Name: Ireland Smith
Program: Indigenous Community and Social Development
School: Georgian College
Why did you want to join Bruce Power?
Growing up in Bruce County exposed me to Bruce Power and the opportunities the company provides, especially to students. I’ve always wanted to be an advocate and voice for Indigenous peoples, which is why I pursued Indigenous Studies. After researching more about Bruce Power, I learned about the work the company does to contribute to reconciliation. I knew that this was a company where I could grow and learn!
What has been the highlight of your co-op?
This is my second summer working at Bruce Power. My first term was spent in Community Relations at the Visitors’ Centre. This exposed me to so many learning opportunities, and I got to experience community engagement at its fullest. I had a lot of fun providing site bus tours and attending all the community events.
What tips do you have for other students considering a co-op placement at Bruce Power?
Bruce Power is a great company to consider for a student placement. You are guaranteed to learn and experience so much. Take every opportunity that comes your way and find mentors within the company that you can ask questions to and learn from.
If you could describe your student experience in one word, what would it be?
Fulfilling
