Leah Cavaricci’s journey at the Exhibition Station construction site in downtown Toronto marks a significant milestone in her career. As a co-op student with Green Infrastructure Partners Inc. (GIPI), Cavaricci contributed to the Ontario Line Subway Project. Her experience transformed her from a novice into a confident leader.
Leah Cavaricci’s Role in the Ontario Line Construction
During her 14-month placement, Cavaricci served as a Shoring Co-op Student. Initially, her responsibilities included supporting project management and operations teams with tasks such as design reviews, scheduling, and daily progress tracking. However, her dedication quickly caught the attention of her supervisors.
Rising to Leadership
- Cavaricci was often the only female on site but overcame initial nervousness.
- She progressively led her crew, earning respect through her initiatives and quality work.
- By the end of her placement, she managed a five-person crew and took charge of the South SOE site.
Her project manager, Luis Alemany, praised her work ethic, noting her ability to deliver quality results ahead of schedule. “Leah understood assignments immediately,” said Alemany. She demonstrated problem-solving skills by navigating challenges such as road closures and material shortages, gaining invaluable experience in the process.
Acknowledgment of Excellence
At Western’s Faculty of Engineering, Leah was recognized as the inaugural recipient of the Engineering Co-op Award. This award highlights exceptional performance and professionalism during long-term placements. Kyle Reid, manager of career services and experiential learning, emphasized the importance of co-operative education in shaping future engineering leaders through Leah’s narrative.
Impact of Work-Integrated Learning
Cavaricci reflected on her co-op experience, stating it solidified her career aspirations. “I now aim to become a site supervisor for shoring projects,” she shared. Her time at GIPI not only developed her technical abilities but also fostered leadership qualities.
With her confidence and skills, Leah Cavaricci is poised for a promising career, illustrating the transformative potential of co-op programs in engineering. “One day, when I ride the Ontario Line, I’ll be able to say – I helped build that,” she concluded, looking forward to her future in construction.
