Summer Student Profile: Gessika Laliberte

November 7, 2024 in People
Explorer: Fall 2024

Gessika Laliberte, a proud member of the Fond du Lac First Nation, has made the most of her summer with the Athabasca Basin Development summer student program by working at Optek Solutions in Prince Albert. As she approaches graduation with a degree in Education, Gessika reflects on her valuable experience and the skills she gained during her time with the company.

Gessika said, “Having the opportunity to work in this program has given me a chance to gain employment during the months of not being in class and gain knowledge of the technical side of computers and photocopiers. This experience has taught me to appreciate the machines that will be used daily in the future. If I were allowed to work for this company again, I would and, without hesitation, would encourage others to do as well. The staff at Optek Solutions are very welcoming and easygoing, making the place a great place to be.”

The Athabasca Summer Student program started in 2021. In partnership with PAGC Dene, Athabasca Basin Development organizes the program, matching students from the Athabasca region with employment opportunities within its investments and with the community economic development corporations. Participating organizations have included Points Athabasca, Flyer Electric, Optek Solutions, Arctic Beverages, Tru North Recreation Superstore, Team Drilling, Points North, Athabasca Basin Security, Hatchet Lake Economic Development, Black Lake Ventures, and Fond du Lac First Nations Development.”

“We want to extend our congratulations to Gessika and to all our summer students,” said Treena Fosseneuve, who oversees the program. “Gessika’s story illustrates the importance of the program for students who are furthering their education. Her dedication will surely lead her to a successful future, and we look forward to seeing what she achieves in the years to come.”

The program opens to student applications January each year and is exclusively for students from the Athabasca communities.

For more information, visit:

www.athabascabasin.ca/summer-students