Authors:
Martha Wallace, Residence & Conference Centre – Kitchener-Waterloo (located on Conestoga College Campus)
Susan MacKenzie, Wilfrid Laurier University Conference Services
Susanne Keppler, University of Waterloo – Conference Services
As we meet over lunch just after another snow-filled weekend, we decided as a group to come up with the top 10 reasons why we love our job in Canada; working within conference services at either a university or college campus.
Reason #1:
Friendly, Non-Competitive Relationships. We build relationships through CUCCOA and various organizations at different colleges/universities. CUCCOA plays a very important role in unifying this relationship and coordinating events throughout the year.
Reason #2:
Unique Facilities and Services. Each campus offers unique, specialized and leading-edge facilities and services. What hotel has a theatre, large gymnasium and restaurant all within the same location?
Reason #3:
Campus Culture. There is a camaraderie that is formed with students, staff and faculty. It is a young atmosphere with students always willing to provide a new perspective or modernized way. There is always something we don’t know and can learn from!
Reason #4:
Work that Matters. We are part of something larger that makes a difference throughout the institutions, the community and the region. We are surrounded by living, connecting, learning and growing. Student development works well in this environment, as we open doors for future employees by offering students placements, co-op and/or related work experience.
Reason #5:
A Flexible, Understanding and Cooperative Working Atmosphere. We have a strong team that cares about the vision and overall success of the operation.
Reason #6:
No Two Days are the Same. From quilting, academic, and religious groups, to a cycling tour, every day brings new opportunities to the business.
Reason #7:
PD is Encouraged. We are always developing new skills with courses available through our institutions and associations such as CUCCOA, MPI, etc. Current technology trends with Ecommerce, social media and online booking agencies are ongoing.
Reason #8:
Problem Solving and Thinking Outside the Box. We do what we can to accommodate our clients with limited resources available. There are always challenges related to facilities, renovations and campus construction, staffing, etc. and each problem requires creative solutions to ensure guest satisfaction.
Reason #9:
Seasonal Operation. The curtains open at the end of April and close at the beginning of September. As campus resources are limited throughout the year there is less focus on coordinating during the academic season.
Reason #10:
Job Opportunities. There are always new opportunities both within our institution and our association communities that open up throughout the year. The skills that we develop as conference professionals are transferrable to departments both on and off campus. Growth and expansion on college and university campuses will offer opportunities to experience new career challenges.
Martha Wallace, Residence & Conference Centre – Kitchener-Waterloo (located on Conestoga College Campus); Email: mwallace@stayrcc.com; Tel: 519-895-2272 x713
Susan MacKenzie, Wilfrid Laurier University Conference Services; Email:smackenzie@wlu.ca; Tel: 519-884-0710 x3958
Susanne Keppler, University of Waterloo – Conference Services; Email: slkeppler@uwaterloo.ca; Tel: 519-888-4567
