WORCESTER—More than 50 students at Quinsigamond Community College completed cooperative education placements during the 2025–26 academic year, part of an effort to connect classroom learning with real-world job experience across a range of industries.
The college recently marked the end of the academic year with an event recognizing both students and employer partners involved in the program, which spans fields such as computer information systems, manufacturing and business administration. Ten academic programs currently require participation in a co-op placement.
College officials say the program is designed to prepare students for the workplace by combining technical training with exposure to professional environments.
“The co-op experience is about preparation, partnership and purpose,” Vice President of Academic Affairs Dr. Kathy Rentsch said in a statement released by the college. “Through relevant curriculum and real-world opportunities, we help develop the skills, work habits and confidence students need to step into the workplace and become meaningful contributors. And none of this happens without everyone being willing to do it together.”
Local employers participating in the program say the placements help meet workforce needs while giving students hands-on experience. Millbury Public Schools has hosted students in roles supporting instructional technology and classroom operations.
“It’s been nothing short of amazing for me and for the students,” said Jeff Berthiaume, director of instructional technology for Millbury Public Schools, in the release. “We need people who can provide consistent, professional customer service, think on their feet and understand how AI works, and this program helps build that.”
For some students, the experience has led directly to employment. Nader Baker, who completed a co-op placement in the college’s IT department, was later hired part-time and now works full time as a desktop support technician, according to the announcement.
“Experience from a co-op matters,” Baker said in the release. “You can get your foot in the door, jump in and know what you’re doing.”
Others said the placements influenced their career paths. SantaMaria Sessarego, who worked at the college’s First Generation Student Support Center, said the experience prompted a shift from pursuing nursing to focusing on public health.
“My experience with the co-op has been amazing,” Sessarego said in the release. “They give you the knowledge and the tools to move forward.”
College leaders said the program continues to expand connections between students and local employers, as institutions look for ways to address workforce demand while providing practical training opportunities.
