(TRI-CITIES) December 1, 2023 — Coquitlam Continuing Education (CCE) student Lena Jun recently completed a three-week practicum at the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce as the capstone of her Administrative Assistant Diploma program.
"Lena joined us at one of our busiest times of year, with our Annual General Meeting at the end of her practicum with us," said Leslie Courchesne, CEO, Tri-Cities Chamber. "Her eagerness to help us with a wide variety of projects could not have come at a better time. Lena was excellent to work with."
Tri-Cities Chamber Office Manager Camelia Maxim said, "Lena was a total joy to work with and to have around in the last three weeks. Her willingness to learn new things, her warm nature, and her professional approach to every task she had, small or big, made a great impression to our team, members, and visitors. With her passion for the administrative work, along with her attentiveness and strong work ethic, she is already set for success. Good luck with your future endeavors, Lena!"
"I wanted to say a big thank you for the wonderful practicum experience," said Lena Jun. "Working with your team taught me a lot about teamwork, respect, and organizing social events... Your guidance in teaching me office administration skills has been invaluable. I appreciate your kindness and positive atmosphere that made my time here special."
Originally from South Korea, Lena moved to Canada 20 years ago. She was motivated to take the CCE program to increase her skills and advance her work experience.
“Our Business, Careers and Job Skills programs are vital for members of our community to get the 'right now' training that they need to quickly and confidently enter or return to the workforce," said Michael McGlenen, Coquitlam Continuing Education District Principal. "The bravery and commitment exhibited by our students who graduate from these programs deserves celebration and I am deeply appreciative for you taking this time to recognize Lena and our Administrative Assistant diploma program. We hope she is as proud of her accomplishments as we are.”
“We are grateful for the support from our fellow Chamber members and other local businesses who host our students during their practicums," said Adrian Cheng, Assistant Coordinator, Business, Careers & Job Skills, CCE. "These business leaders generously provide the opportunities for our students to apply the skills they’ve learned in their courses in real life situations.”
"I know many of our members are struggling to fill their vacant positions right now, given the challenging labour market. If you're an employer looking for some additional help, and also want to pay it forward by giving these students an opportunity to grow their skills and experience, I highly recommend Coquitlam Continuing Education's practicum students," said Courchesne. "And you might just find a great match. We have hired a practicum student into a full-time roll. Camelia Maxim, Office Manager with the Chamber, is a CCE grad as well. Camelia has been with us more than five years."
For employers looking to host a practicum student, contact Coquitlam Continuing Education at 604-936-4261.
Coquitlam Continuing Education has been a member of the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce for nearly 40 years. CCE is the lead sponsor of the Chamber's Tri-Cities Young Professionals program.
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Since 1971, the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce has been the largest business association serving Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, Anmore, and Belcarra, now representing 1,300+ organizations from every sector. The Chamber works to foster economic development, provide connections and benefits, and influence public policy at all levels of government to ensure strong business and strong communities. The Tri-Cities Chamber is an active member of the BC and Canadian Chambers of Commerce.
For more information, contact:
Leslie Courchesne, Chief Executive Officer
Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce
ceo@tricitieschamber.com
604.468.6870