Khan isn't the only one to recognize that academics and industry are complementary. ATOP was established by the Ontario government in May 1998 and is aimed at increasing university and college enrollments in high demand computer science and engineering courses. The province gives Carleton funding for every month an employer hires a co-op student. This money will be devoted to increasing the number of spaces available in the university's applied sciences and engineering programs. Carleton prides itself on offering longer work terms.
Many universities offer only four-month placements.
Rosemary Carter, manager of the co-op office, says this past summer there were 245 students on work placements. Carter attributes this to the wider range of co-op programs now offered at Carleton, an increase in enrolment and a rising interest among students and employers. For many students, co-op is a way of making contacts that will help them land a job after graduation. Dennis Leung, director of product development at The Object People, describes the experience as an extended job interview for both the student and the employer. The student has the chance to explore future career possibilities, while the employer seeks outs potential full-time candidates.