Ivy

My Path to Joining Acturis

I first discovered Acturis through the UVic co‑op job board. The posting immediately caught my attention, and after applying, I had an initial call to confirm my interest. That was followed by an interview with People Ops, which gave me a clearer idea of what the role would look like day‑to‑day.

From there, I went through two additional interviews that involved solving real problems. Working through those examples helped me understand the kind of thinking the role required and gave me a strong sense of what the job would actually involve.

What drew me most to Acturis was the balance between client‑facing work and technical responsibilities. I loved the idea of contributing both to technical problem‑solving and to shaping specific parts of the app through design. That combination felt like a rare opportunity, especially for someone early in their career.

Transitioning from University to the Workplace

Moving from university into a full‑time role can feel daunting, but the transition at Acturis was surprisingly smooth. The onboarding program is in‑depth and thoughtfully structured—it doesn’t just show you the product, but also introduces you to how different teams work and how everything connects.

One of the most helpful aspects was the new joiner sessions. Being able to meet other people who were also starting their careers created a supportive environment right away. It made the transition feel less overwhelming and much more collaborative.

Skills I Developed Through the Co‑op Experience

During my time as a co‑op, I gained a wide range of technical and professional skills. The team was incredibly patient and invested in helping me understand the tools I needed to use—especially SQL Developer, which became my main technical focus.

Beyond technical growth, I developed design skills and learned how to communicate professionally in a workplace environment. I also gained experience working directly with clients, which taught me how to listen, translate needs into requirements, and communicate solutions clearly.

Those skills became the foundation of how I now approach my work, and they continue to grow as I take on new challenges.

How This Experience Shaped My Career Goals

Coming from a background in fields like math or physics, you develop certain ways of thinking, but it isn’t always clear how those abilities translate into a career. Before joining Acturis, I wasn’t entirely sure how to apply the analytical and problem‑solving skills I had built through my studies.

My experience here changed that. Through real projects and hands‑on learning, I saw how skills from those academic fields can be applied directly to technical and real‑world challenges. It gave me a clear sense of direction and a better understanding of how my academic strengths could shape a meaningful career path.

Why I Recommend the Co‑op Program

I would absolutely recommend the Acturis co‑op program to other students. The training process is thorough, and personal development truly feels like a priority. From the beginning, you’re supported in building core skills and encouraged to grow.

On top of that, the workplace environment is genuinely enjoyable. The office itself is beautiful, and the people are welcoming, friendly, and always willing to help. There are also frequent social events that make the office feel vibrant and connected.

What I Enjoy Most About Working at Acturis

What I appreciate most is the opportunity to continually develop new skills. Every project brings something different to learn, whether technical or professional. There are always new challenges and new ways to grow.

I also value the chance to collaborate with others. Working with different teams and learning from people with diverse skills has been incredibly beneficial. Whether someone stays long‑term or moves on to another path, I think the skills gained here set you up for success wherever you go.

Learning and Development Opportunities

Acturis invests heavily in learning and development. The company offers access to subsidized courses in areas like business analysis and AI—skills that are becoming increasingly important. Beyond formal training, there are plenty of opportunities to talk with people who’ve built strong expertise in their fields.

Just as importantly, the environment encourages you to apply what you learn. You aren’t just taking courses—you’re using those skills in real projects, which makes the learning process more meaningful and practical.

Final Reflections on My Experience

As someone who completed multiple co‑op terms, one thing that stands out is how many co‑op students choose to return as full‑time employees. I think that speaks volumes about Acturis as a workplace. The focus on development, the supportive environment, and the meaningful work all contribute to a positive experience that makes people want to come back.

My time at Acturis has shaped not only my technical abilities but also my confidence in navigating a professional environment. It has been a valuable step in my career path, and I’m grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve received along the way.