Engineering Student Thrives in Subway Project Co-op Role

When Leah Cavaricci stepped onto the construction site for the Ontario Line Subway Project in downtown Toronto, she embarked on a journey that would significantly shape her career. Over a 14-month co-op placement with Green Infrastructure Partners Inc. (GIPI), Cavaricci transitioned from an uncertain engineering student to a capable site leader, ultimately earning the inaugural Engineering Co-op Award from Western University’s Faculty of Engineering.

Her placement at GIPI exposed her to one of Toronto’s largest infrastructure undertakings, connecting Exhibition Station to the Science Centre. Initially, Cavaricci supported project management and operations through design reviews, scheduling, and progress tracking. Her supervisors quickly recognized her potential.

Luis Alemany, project manager at GIPI, praised her work ethic: “Leah understood assignments immediately and always delivered quality work ahead of schedule. She kept asking the right questions, showing real initiative. Her growth in the field was outstanding.” Cavaricci began her placement learning from another co-op student but soon progressed to leading her own crew.

As she honed her skills, her responsibilities expanded. Cavaricci took command of the South SOE site, coordinating a five-person crew, managing concrete deliveries, and liaising with contractors and suppliers, all while navigating challenges posed by events like the Canadian National Exhibition and the Honda Indy.

“Each day brought new challenges,” Cavaricci noted. “Night shifts, road closures, concrete shortages – but that’s what I loved most. Solving problems on site taught me how to lead, adapt, and stay calm under pressure.”

Her commitment and resilience were evident in every project phase. By the end of her co-op, Cavaricci had transitioned from support to leadership. Notably, she delivered GIPI’s August 2025 learning session, presenting project progress and guiding colleagues through a site tour. Alemany reflected, “It’s always rewarding to witness a young professional grow so quickly. I wouldn’t be surprised if I find myself working under her supervision someday.”

The recognition from Western Engineering highlights the significance of co-operative education in cultivating future engineering talent. “Leah’s story captures what co-op is all about,” stated Kyle Reid, manager of career services and experiential learning at Western Engineering. “She brought curiosity, professionalism, and leadership to one of Canada’s most complex infrastructure projects. This award celebrates students like Leah who bridge classroom learning with real-world impact.”

Reflecting on her co-op experience, Cavaricci acknowledged its pivotal role in defining her career aspirations. “Before this, I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do,” she said. “Now, I know I want to be a site supervisor for shoring projects. It’s challenging, fast-paced, and rewarding to see something you helped build come to life.”

Looking toward the future, she expressed pride in her contributions. “One day, when I ride the Ontario Line, I’ll be able to say – I helped build that.” Cavaricci’s journey exemplifies how hands-on experience can transform students into leaders, ready to tackle the demands of modern engineering challenges.