Local associations and industry groups

by | Job hunting

student at the front of a classroom with students raising their hands

Do you know the local associations and industry groups related to your program?

One of the best steps you can take in your career is getting involved with local professional associations and industry groups. These organizations often offer networking events, student rates, mentorship, specialized industry job boards, and conversations with professionals who want to support emerging talent.

Here are a few great groups in Greater Victoria to explore:

VIATEC (Victoria Innovation, Advanced Technology & Entrepreneurship Council): https://www.viatec.ca/
Ideal for students in Business, Tech, Entrepreneurship, Engineering, and Marketing. Hosts events, job boards, and a strong local startup/tech community.

COAST (Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies): https://canadacoast.ca/
Ideal for students interested in ocean tech, marine sciences, sustainability, engineering, and environmental innovation.

Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce: https://lnkd.in/g7xF3cFP
The Chamber hosts networking events, workshops, and panels that connects students from all disciplines with employers, entrepreneurs, and leaders across the region.

South Island Prosperity Partnership (SIPP): https://lnkd.in/g2f2K7cZ
Focused on regional economic development, innovation, and collaboration. Great for business, public administration, economics, and policy-minded students.

Island Women in Science & Technology (iWIST): https://www.iwist.ca/
iWIST brings together women and allies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math located in the West Coast island communities

Vancouver Island Life Sciences (VILS): https://www.vils.ca/
Vancouver Island Life Sciences association (VILS) is a volunteer, nonprofit society that brings together the life-sciences community in Victoria and around the Island, and connects it with the global life science community.

If you’re exploring co-op pathways or building your career direction, these groups are a great place to begin building relationships.

Showing up, asking insightful questions, and getting plugged in to the local community can open doors to co-ops, mentorship, and meaningful opportunities.