North Island College business administration students are taking their skills to the community this year to help local businesses and organizations succeed.
Mo Mackendrick, president of the Filberg Heritage Lodge and Park Association, is a repeat customer.
The non-profit association has opened its doors to NIC’s Advanced Entrepreneurship students the past three years, saving thousands of dollars that can otherwise be used to restore the lodge, build new stages, and help the park remain a community resource for years to come.
Every winter for the past eight years, teams of students act as consultants to businesses with the goal of creating a detailed report with recommendations and an implementation plan.
Rheana Watterson enrolled in the post-degree diploma in business administration to strengthen her skill set. The advanced entrepreneurship class gave her practical consulting experience and an opportunity to support her community.
“I feel so strongly about working with an organization that gives back,” she said. “It’s easy to see this project’s value; we want to create the best possible report to help them achieve their goals.”
Bill Parkinson, NIC instructor and school of business department chair, says it’s important students have opportunities to connect with the community and showcase their skills.
“These students are just months away from graduating with their bachelor of business administration degree or post-degree diploma in business management,” Parkinson said. “After four years, they’re ready.”
NIC’s School of Business has grown exponentially in the last eight years, offering a range of flexible courses and programs for students who want to specialize in everything from human resource management to global business, accounting, marketing and more.
“Our community partnerships with Filberg Park and other local organizations are vital for students,” said Parkinson. “Many of them will start as co-op or internship students and end up contributing greatly either as employees or independent business operators. We are training the next generation of business leaders on the North Island.”
To partner with the School of Business, email Parkinson at bill.parkinson@nic.bc.ca.
www.nic.bc.ca/business