Dilpreet started with WorkSafeBC as a fourth-year co-op student, studying business accounting at Kwantlen Polytechnic University. After eight months as a co-op student, she was the successful applicant for a permanent position on our accounting team, in a role that complements her education and skills. “I’m passionate about working with numbers and helping others, so this position really helps me to fulfill that passion while doing what I truly enjoy,” she says.

As an accounts payable clerk, Dilpreet has the opportunity to apply her education and software training in her daily work. “This role definitely helps me better understand what I learned in school, by allowing me to apply the accounting principles and concepts to the work that I do every single day. I am able to really see how the software and systems tie in together, and how we use them to process, analyze, and review financial information.”

Support and collaboration

“There’s a lot of support available for you, so don’t worry if you don’t know everything at first. If you have a willingness to learn, you can explore new opportunities and have some great experiences,” she says. She appreciates that anytime she is stuck or needs guidance, she can turn to her co-workers and work with them to resolve an issue or problem. This has also helped her develop relationships and build her personal skills. “My team has been super supportive in guiding me and making sure that I’m equipped with the tools and resources that I need for the position, and I’ve learned some valuable soft skills that I can use the rest of my career.”

Opportunities for growth

“I’m eager to learn, so I asked my manager if I could have the opportunity to learn about the various functions of accounting. I was able to learn about accounts receivable and payables which was really interesting. My co-op experience also gave me the opportunity to reflect on my goals and envision my career path. Now I’m more motivated than ever to pursue a CPA designation.”

An inclusive and diverse culture

Dilpreet was attracted to WorkSafeBC because she wanted to join an organization that makes a difference. “Making a positive difference in the lives of others is something that means a lot to me and something I value, so to work at an organization that shares the same vision is really fulfilling to me,” she says. “I appreciate how the organization respects diversity, encourages new ideas and innovation, and prioritizes employees feeling safe and welcome.”

It’s those values, as well as the support from her co-workers and managers that keep her motivated and engaged. “My managers are really passionate about what they do, and that energy is contagious. This fuels me as someone who is just starting out in my career,” she shares. “My team members recognize my goals and are available to support me every step of the way.”

Fostering success

During her time at WorkSafeBC, she’s had an opportunity to learn valuable skills, develop positive relationships, and challenge herself in a stimulating and progressive environment surrounded by a lot of support and encouragement.

Her advice to future applicants? “I’d definitely recommend co-op students apply here. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and you’ll gain a lot of professional skills and grow as an individual. I’ve had the opportunity to build my confidence throughout this experience, and that’s opened a lot of new doors for me. It’s been a valuable experience, and I would do it all over again if I could.”

Learn more about our opportunities

To learn about our co-op work opportunities, visit our student recruitment page.