2026 Ottawa Industry Tour

Your gateway to exceptional co-op opportunities

February 18–20, 2026

Are you deciding where to apply for your Summer or PEY Co-op work term? Consider launching your co-op journey in Canada’s capital city!

Ottawa is home to leading employers across several key sectors, including:  public administration, high-tech, communications, life sciences and healthcare — and offers a vibrant lifestyle you’ll love exploring.

Join the Engineering Career Centre’s Ottawa Industry Tour (February 18–20, 2026) for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at top companies and industry leaders shaping Canada’s economic landscape.

Why Consider a Co-op in Ottawa?

Home to Canada’s Largest Tech Hub — Kanata North

500+ companies in telecom, cybersecurity, software, hardware and AI.

Hands-On, High-Impact Work

Opportunities to contribute to real engineering projects in industries shaping Canada's future.

Strong Hiring Pipeline for U of T Engineering

Ottawa employers regularly recruit and hire multiple U of T co-op students each term.

Affordable, Balanced Living

Lower cost of living than Toronto, shorter commutes and a supportive young professional community.

A Launchpad for Career Growth

Many students receive return offers, and Ottawa experience is highly valued across tech and government sectors.

Tour Highlights

Visits to leading employers, government agencies and the Kanata North Technology Hub.

Networking opportunities with industry professionals, hiring managers and U of T alumni.

Behind-the-scenes access to workplace environments, labs and engineering teams.

A day in the Kanata North Technology Hub engaging with local and international employers.

Structured activities including site tours, presentations, panels and employer-led engagement sessions.

Itinerary Overview

February 18–20, 2026

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Day 1

Travel to Ottawa and participate in an evening networking event with industry partners, alumni and current co-op students.

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Day 2

Visit three leading companies for in-depth conversations about their workplace culture, engineering teams and co-op opportunities.

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Day 3

Spend the day at the Kanata North Technology Hub meeting a wide range of employers through panels, rotational presentations and networking sessions. Government representatives may also be present. Conclude with return travel to Toronto.

2025 Tour Snapshots

Who Can Join and How to Register?

Eligibility

The Ottawa Industry Tour is ideal for:

  • Second- and third-year U of T Engineering students in the Summer or PEY Co-op recruitment cycle
  • Undergraduate students who have completed PEY and are exploring Ottawa employers for full-time opportunities
    • Due to capacity limits, graduate students are not eligible.

Fee

The student fee varies each year and includes:

  • Round-trip bus transportation
  • Local transportation for ECC-organized activities
  • Two hotel nights (shared room)
  • Select meals (excluding alcoholic beverages)

Registration

  • Registration will open in early January 2026.
  • Eligible students will receive an email invitation with a registration link.
  • Students can also register through the U of T Co-op Portal’s Events & Workshops.
  • Payment is accepted by most major credit cards (excluding AMEX).
  • Registrations may be transferred to another student by emailing ecc@utoronto.ca. Conditions may apply.