Building the Future of Hydrogen: Co-op Experiences at HTEC

14 Nov 2024 | Blog, News Feed

As the demand for hydrogen grows alongside the global shift toward clean energy, the need for skilled professionals with hands-on experience in this field becomes increasingly critical. At HTEC, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of clean tech leaders through our co-op program as we expand our hydrogen production facilities, grow our network of refueling stations, and deploy hydrogen fuel cell trucks.

These programs not only offer students valuable industry experience but also bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to our team. Whether they stay for a few months or a year—or even transition to permanent roles—our co-op students make a meaningful impact on our mission of building the low-carbon future we want to live in and leave behind for future generations through clean hydrogen technology.

Meet HTEC’s Co-ops

Who are HTEC’s co-ops and what do they do? Currently, HTEC has five talented co-op students from diverse fields—including business, engineering, and IT—each bringing their unique skills and perspectives.

  • Kevin Chen, HTEC’s Electrical Engineering Co-op, is in his 4th year of Electrical Engineering. Kevin’s work at HTEC includes designing lighting plans, attending site inspections, performing calculations for cable tray sizing and overcurrent protection devices, and updating electrical drawings and documents related to HTEC’s hydrogen production facility, our hydrogen refueling stations, and a hydrogen compressor project.
  • Max Wei, HTEC’s Project Management Co-op, is studying for his Bachelor of Commerce with a specialization in Operations and Logistics. He has supported project planning, scheduling, coordinating between different teams, and tracking milestones for HTEC’s upcoming light and heavy-duty hydrogen refueling stations.
  • Kamryn Chin, HTEC’s Operations Engineering Co-op, is a 4th-year Manufacturing Engineering student. At HTEC, Kamryn works with the Stations and Distribution team executing projects and deliverables that aim to ensure operational integrity at our five hydrogen dispensing stations, ensuring that our customers can successfully fill their cars whenever they wish.
  • Gokul Nair, HTEC’s Mechanical Engineering Co-op, is in his 4th year in Mechanical Engineering. While working at HTEC, Gokul has prominently worked on HTEC’s first hydrogen production facility, a gas transfer module, and a hydrogen compressor. On these projects, Gokul is involved with CAD, design, documentation & writing, quality, equipment selection, calculations, and hands-on work activities.
  • Reuben Martin, HTEC’s IT Co-op, is studying Network Administration and Security as a Post-Degree Diploma program intended for international students with existing degrees and working experience in the field of IT. At HTEC, Reuben provides technical support, assisting users with hardware and software issues, troubleshooting problems, and resolving help desk tickets. During his time at HTEC, Reuben “has gained practical experience. Encountering real-world challenges has sharpened [his] troubleshooting and analytical skills.”

While our co-ops work in different areas of the company, they all share similar experiences when it comes to gaining knowledge from experienced co-workers. As Kamryn says, “It’s been amazing to observe the team of people working to grow the station network. I’ve loved watching our team ranging from in-house Technicians and Operators, Analysts, and Engineers, working together every day.”

They also engaged in specific project-related tasks, such as Kevin’s time working on a hydrogen compressor project, where he “had a major role in configuring and testing all of the sensors used for the build,” and Max’s time working across HTEC’s projects where he was “applying theoretical project management concepts to real-world projects, collaborating cross-functionally, and understanding the unique challenges of scaling hydrogen infrastructure.” The co-ops were able to apply what they know academically to real-world projects and problems.

A Commitment to Building the Clean Future

HTEC’s co-ops are entrusted with real-world tasks and responsibilities, putting them at the forefront of the cleantech sector and providing invaluable experience. As Reuben, our IT co-op, puts it: “Being part of a company dedicated to green energy has fostered a mindset focused on sustainability and innovation, encouraging me to think about how technology can contribute to a more sustainable future.”

When our co-op students return to school, we want them to leave HTEC with a sense of accomplishment and a mindset rooted in innovation, sustainability, and a passion for making a positive impact on the world. Our goal is to equip them with practical skills they can carry forward into their careers, while fostering a clean-tech mindset that empowers them to become the innovators, pioneers, and leaders who will drive the clean hydrogen revolution.

Alison Verheyde, Director of Human Resources, notes the importance of the co-op program, saying “We are extremely pleased with the value that our co-op student program brings, both for the students and for HTEC as an organization. The students provide us with fresh ideas and perspectives along with the latest skills from their education, all while they gain valuable hands-on experience and mentorship. We have welcomed several co-ops back after graduation and are excited to continue supporting them as they start their careers within the hydrogen sector.”

As Gokul puts it, this co-op experience offers “a lot of interesting, new knowledge to be gained while still being applicable to your engineering foundations.” By welcoming co-op students each term, HTEC hopes to provide the next generation with valuable opportunities to explore the hydrogen sector and deepen their expertise.

The Next Generation of Innovators

At HTEC, we are not just building the future of hydrogen; we are also building the future of the professionals who will lead this industry. By providing students with real-world experience and the opportunity to work on impactful projects, we are equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to drive the clean energy transition. As these co-op students return to their studies, we hope they carry with them a sense of accomplishment and a vision for a sustainable future.

If you are interested in exploring co-op opportunities with HTEC, please reach out to your school’s co-op coordinator for current postings.