Real-World Ready: Employers Commend Wentworth Co-op Program
Mariana Martinez Serratos (left) during her co-op with Palmer Capital Corporation
More than 1,600 unique organizations hired Wentworth co-op students in just the past three years—and 40% were repeat employers. Why do so many companies consistently seek out Wentworth students?
From the employer perspective, the answer is clear: for 50 years, Wentworth has been a key partner in preparing technically proficient, adaptable, and eager students who quickly become valuable assets. They contribute meaningfully to complex projects, integrate seamlessly into teams, and represent a vital source of future talent.
Preparedness and Reputation
Wentworth’s reputation for producing graduates who are ready to hit the ground running is clear to employers like Karl Walsh, Vice President of Special Projects at M. O'Connor Contracting. With nearly 30 years in the Boston construction scene, he views Wentworth as a "go-to school" known for delivering "great talent" – students who arrive well-prepared with solid experience.
This readiness stems from a curriculum designed for real-world application. Employers consistently praise the strong technical foundation Wentworth students bring. Whether it's proficiency in crucial software like Civil 3D CAD and GIS, essential for firms like Tata & Howard where alumna Brianna Sullivan works, or a grasp of fundamental engineering principles needed at POWER Engineers, Wentworth students demonstrate practical knowledge.
The Co-op Difference
The semester-long duration of Wentworth's co-op cycle allows students the time needed to truly learn company processes and make substantial contributions. Zachary Egnitz at Element Materials Technology witnessed this firsthand. He noted that his recent co-op student Kyle Driscoll learned and adapted "quicker than any other new hires we have seen,” … enabling him to tackle "very complicated, detailed tasks" requiring intense focus and precision. Kyle ultimately exceeded the company's quality requirements.
Consequently, Wentworth co-ops are entrusted with significant responsibilities across diverse functions. They might be found in the office assisting M. O'Connor Contracting with bids and project management support, or out in the field contributing to operations and safety protocols. The co-op experience at Bala Consulting Engineers provides co-ops opportunities to engage in nearly any project or system the team is working on.
This hands-on involvement means co-ops actively contribute, whether they are working on data center projects with Integra's design teams and superintendents, like alumnus Alex Cela describes, or designing energy storage systems that, as Sumul Shah of Palmer Capital Corporation anticipates, will actually be built in the future.
Beyond technical skills and adaptability, employers highly value the attitude WIT students bring. Shah found his co-op Mariana Martinez Serratos to be "everything I could ask for," highlighting her diligence and innate curiosity.
Real Impact and Building the Future Talent Pipeline
The deep engagement fostered by the co-op program means students often become indispensable team members. Their work translates into tangible results and real project successes. When a co-op like Kyle becomes a "very valued component of the team," as Egnitz described, it underscores the significant impact they can have during their placement. This level of contribution explains why many employers view the co-op program as a critical pipeline for future talent.
Companies aren't just looking for temporary help; they're often scouting future leaders, and finding them. The success of Wentworth alumni with partner companies—such as co-op students who have gone onto leadership positions at the same companies, including Gilbane and AVTECH—serves as powerful testimony to the program’s long-term value.
This is the third 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: