Co-op: Launchpad to Leadership and Global Impact
Carolyn Sicard (middle left) was involved in the creation of the glass dome (left) at the National Basketball Association's Naismith Hall of Fame, while Justin Howe (middle right) designed the UA Speedform Gemini running shoe (right) for Under Armour
Imagine launching your career with real-world experience that not only complements your studies but actively propels you to the forefront of your field. For alumni Justin Howe and Carolyn Sicard, Wentworth Institute of Technology’s co-operative education program wasn't just a resume builder—it was the springboard for visionary leadership and significant industry impact, proving that hands-on learning can ignite extraordinary success.
Justin Howe, a 2001 Industrial Design graduate, is now an accomplished creative director, consultant, and leadership coach with over two decades of experience guiding global brands like PUMA and Under Armour. Reflecting on his decision to attend Wentworth, he emphasizes the unique draw of the co-op program.
"Wentworth had a number of factors that made it a clear choice for me," Howe said. "But first, the school had a very compelling co-op program with an extensive professional network, and it offered the support to do an optional co-op prior to the requisite co-ops. This program became a key factor in shaping my career path."
Howe seized the opportunity for an optional co-op early in his academic journey.
"The co-op office connected me to a program at the Stride Rite Corporation. Despite interns usually being juniors and seniors in college, I took a chance and somehow landed a job at Sperry Topsider, becoming the youngest intern there,” Howe said.
Howe relates that the extra co-op was profoundly helpful in setting his career trajectory. “Starting early with co-ops and expanding my resume with each one created a strong professional foundation while in school, which was incredibly helpful in the transition from academia to the professional world,” he said.
Similarly, Carolyn Sicard, a certified builder and Chief Estimator at NEI General Contracting, found that her co-op experiences were fundamental in discovering her professional passion. "The co-op experience was incredibly valuable. I had the opportunity to explore many facets of construction,” said Sicard, who earned a Wentworth degree in Engineering.
After a co-op with a town engineering department, she realized she did not want to work full-time for a municipal government. “The pace was too slow for my personality and fast-paced lifestyle,” she said. “Additionally, my experience at an architectural firm helped me understand that I did not want to pursue a career as an architect."
It was during her third co-op that Sicard found her calling. "I discovered my passion for estimating," she recalled. "I loved the fast pace with constant deadlines and structure. I thrived on finding subcontractor coverage for projects and building strong relationships with subcontractors."
This early discovery has led to a remarkable career. Over nearly 30 years, Sicard has helped secure more than $2.5 billion in contracts. "One of the highlights was my involvement in the competitive bid for the Basketball Hall of Fame and the iconic glass sphere dome," she said.
Sicard has also contributed to a wide range of affordable housing projects, with more than 2,000 housing units awarded to firms for whom she has worked.
Today, both Howe and Sicard champion the co-op program that helped shape their careers. Sicard frequently recommends Wentworth students to others in the industry. "I have worked with Wentworth co-ops and have witnessed their growth and success, leading many to become exceptional superintendents, project managers, and estimators," she said. "The co-op program played a crucial role in our success, and I am forever grateful for the experience."
Howe advises current students to make the most of their co-op experiences. "When you enter college, no one is holding your hand to go places. It takes a certain level of courage and willpower to consistently, reliably, and independently adventure into uncharted—and often uncomfortable—new spaces for the first time,” he said. “Being open to co-op opportunities in front of you and embracing the full experience of being on your growth edge will help to lay the groundwork for great things ahead.”
This is the sixth in a series of features celebrating 50 years of co-op at Wentworth, exploring the individuals and partnerships that have made the program a cornerstone of the university: