Andrew Martin (AM), a second year Commerce student from Dalhousie University may not call the Saint John region home, but he's certainly not new to the area. Originally from Crofton, Maryland, Andrew graduated from Rothesay Netherwood School just outside of Saint John before choosing to stay in Atlantic Canada to continue his education. 

Andrew joined the Construction and Equipment Division's Build Your Career program as a Finance student. 

"Our Co-op programs offer students the ability to apply and develop their skills in a hands on environment. This experience elevates their success and continues to add value within JDI. We believe that continuing to engage students in the co-op program, especially during these uncertain times with Covid-19, demonstrates our organization's commitment to both safety and growing talent," says Lacey Lavoie, Finance Lead at Irving Equipment.

We sat down to chat with Andrew about his Build Your Career experience so far.

This is your first co-op, so what do you hope to learn, what are you most excited about during this term?

AM: I hope to gain experience inside the world of finance and the everyday decisions that go into managing such a diverse group of businesses. And I'm most excited to learn and experience new opportunities that will benefit me in my career going forward. Opportunities helping me Build My Career.

Okay, so at 2 months into the work-term what’s been your biggest learning so far? How will this help you down the road?

AM: The most impactful thing I have learned so far would have to be the general financial planning and detail that goes into operating a company. And the importance of understanding the cost and areas of new opportunity for the business.

It can be surprising to learn what exactly can go into the running of a business, but one of the most important pieces of that puzzle is the people. How would you share your experience at JDI from a hiring perspective?

AM: It's all about how welcoming and receptive the people of JDI are. They want to help you get the most out of your co-op term and are willing to give you exposure to the areas that interest you and support you with training.

The Construction and Equipment Division is currently looking for students to join their Summer Build Your Career program. If you or someone you know is looking for a dynamic, educational and hands on co-op experience, applications are now open here.