George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
George Brown’s Work-Integrated Learning and Career Services teams came together in April to host two end-of-year career fairs that connected students directly with employers across key industries, bringing together students, employers, and industry partners at a critical moment in the academic year.
Organized in partnership between the Career Services and Work-Integrated Learning teams, the fairs were the first centralized spring career events for the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Construction and Engineering Technologies and the Faculty of Business, Creative Industries, and Culinary Arts.
Together, the events welcomed more than 600 students and 41 industry partners and employers, with opportunities spanning summer jobs, co-op and work placements, and full-time roles for graduating students.
In-person connections that matter
Throughout both days, students met with employers face-to-face, shared résumés, asked thoughtful questions, and gained firsthand insight into industry expectations. At a time when many hiring processes are driven by digital platforms, the value of in-person connections, where conversations could lead directly to interviews and follow-up opportunities, resonated with students.
Despite a competitive job market, the fairs demonstrated strong demand for in-person networking. Students were able to present themselves beyond a résumé, making meaningful impressions and building professional networks aligned with their fields of study.
Industry engagement powered by campus collaboration
The events were supported by dedicated teams from Work-Integrated Learning, Career Services, Spaces and Events, and Facilities, with approximately 50 staff members and 20 volunteers contributing to their success.
“Students choose George Brown for work-integrated learning that connects them with industry from day one. These events created meaningful WIL conversations between students and employers, and they’re made possible by the dedication and teamwork of our incredible staff and volunteers,” said Tara Zabella, Senior Manager, Work-Integrated Learning. “The excitement of connections happening in real time was visible on the faces of attendees, and that’s why these events have a real impact.”
“Career fairs give students the chance to explore options, test their career goals, and start professional conversations before they graduate,” said Matei Savulescu, Manager, Career Planning and Development, emphasizing the importance of timing and accessibility. “Creating spaces where students can connect directly with employers is a critical part of preparing them to transition confidently into the workforce.”
Building career readiness through experience
George Brown’s career-focused programs include experiential and work-integrated learning opportunities that help students develop practical, real-world, sector-specific skills while gaining a clearer understanding of industry expectations. The April career fairs reinforced that commitment by bridging students and employers through direct, purposeful engagement, ensuring students leave campus better prepared to take the next step in their professional journeys.
Learn more about Experiential Learning at George Brown
Discover resources and opportunities for students and grads with Career Services
