Waterloo benefits from having three of Canada’s most highly-regarded post-secondary institutions – the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and Conestoga College. For tech companies looking to grow, these schools are an incredible resource with a multitude of tech-specific programs.
While our “Tapping Talent: Tech Talent in Waterloo” booklet covers the Waterloo tech labour market in more detail – including experienced talent and cost comparisons – here’s a quick overview of how each school feeds the top-quality talent needs of tech companies locating in our community:
University of Waterloo
One of the top technical schools in North America, the University of Waterloo has Canada’s #1 Computer Science program, #2 Engineering program and the world’s largest collection of math and computer science talent. Students are also top-quality – in 2018, more than 85% of students entering the Software Engineering program qualified with a 95% average in secondary school. This school is also home to the world’s largest co-operative education program, which means the majority of their tech-oriented students graduate with two years of paid on-the-job experience. Some relevant programs include:
- Software Engineering
- Nanotechnology Engineering
- Computer Science
Wilfrid Laurier University
Home to the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics, Wilfrid Laurier University plays a key role in developing the business talent needed to help tech companies grow. In fact, the Lazaridis School specializes in technology management. Wilfrid Laurier University also claims Canada’s largest business-specific co-operative education program, which means hires from this school are work-ready. Some relevant programs include:
- Business Technology Management
- Business Administration and Computer Science (double degree)
- Data Science
Conestoga College
One of the top polytechnic institutes in Ontario, Conestoga College specializes in producing work-ready talent, and has a particular strength in information technology and engineering programs. In fact, it’s the only college in Ontario accredited to issue engineering degrees. Some programs that tech companies can recruit from include:
- Software Engineering Technology
- Big Data Solution Architecture
- Electronic Systems Engineering
Want more information about Waterloo’s tech talent pipeline and cost comparisons with Boston, New York, Toronto and Silicon Valley?
Are you exploring the possibility of locating, relocating or expanding your business?
Contact us – we’re here to help.