Co-op students adding camouflage to their studies

“There’s no life like it.” This may be an older Canadian Armed Forces advertising slogan, but Canada’s military and Fanshawe College are showing students how their education can lead to a life like no other. 

The first cohort of Fanshawe's co-operative education program agreement with the 31 Canadian Brigade Group (CBG) has wrapped up their school year. 

Since fall 2024, students can receive co-op credits while receiving basic military qualification training and condensed military occupational training that aligns with their studies. After their work term, they can also continue with the reserves in a part-time role, which will provide them with important and relevant job experience.

Ahmet Cetinkaya is a fourth-year student in the Bachelor of Commerce (Human Resources) program at Fanshawe. He joined the 4th Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment (4RCR) as a human resources administrator. He thought joining the army would be a wonderful experience as he can serve in an amazing co-op work term, giving him valuable skills.

So far, he’s been surprised at the support he’s received from unit members and how they consider teamwork important. In addition, the Basic Military Qualification was more challenging than he thought it would be, given they were co-op students.

“My experience has been great. I’ve made a lot of friends and learned essential skills like shooting a weapon, setting up a tent, surviving in the field, different tactical approaches, and the importance of teamwork,” Cetinkaya said. “I’ve also learned how to maintain my kit and stay on top of my responsibilities.”

For Denver Churilla, his military expectations were based on military movies. The second-year accounting student, who joined the 1st Hussars as a financial service administrator, has had an enjoyable experience. He said the military instills good behaviours, such as discipline and resilience, which helps in and out of school.

While the school term has wrapped up and their co-op work term in the military is ending, Cetinkaya and Churilla plan to stay in the army for the time being. 

“I recommend this program,” said Cetinkaya. “It’s a unique experience that you won’t get in the civilian world, and I think it’s a great opportunity.” 

The 1st Hussars is a Primary Reserve Armoured Reconnaissance Regiment while the 4 RCR is a Primary Reserve Infantry unit. 

31 Canadian Brigade Group, headquartered in London, is an Army Reserve Formation of the 4th Canadian Division and is headquartered in London, Ontario. Its area of responsibility reaches from Hamilton to Windsor and north to Owen Sound and Barrie. The Brigade has nearly 2,500 members, the vast majority of whom are reserve soldiers.