I always enjoyed working with computers ever since I did a co-op with my high school IT department up in northern Ontario. From high school I went directly to University to study engineering, but found that although I enjoyed many of the classes, I could not picture myself as an engineer, it wasn't my passion. From there I decided to work in retail for a time while I could figure out what I really wanted to do. I had done some schooling in woodworking and although it was probably the most fun I had while in school I realized that it was also not the career path for me. Having spent the past few years working in retail allowed me to start to look at the direction in which I wanted to take my life and realized that throughout all of my schooling and work, I always maintained my interest in computers.

After looking at my options I settled on Willis College to begin my IT career and I can honestly say it was one of my best decisions. The instructors are incredibly knowledgeable and focus on not only teaching you the material in the curriculum, but showing you how the software will work in actual production environments. The college prepares you for not only employment for today but shows you how to stay competitive in the future and to embrace the technological changes to come. I've started looking for jobs, and even before graduation, thanks to the career preparation and job fairs held at the college, my future employment prospects are looking great. I can now say with confidence that I have chosen the right career path for me and thanks to Willis College Ottawa Campus I know that I will be able to achieve my goals.

Jacqulyn Sorensen,
MCTS, MCSE
Willis College Ottawa Campus Student

My experiences at Willis College have been life changing. In completing my program, I grew in many ways. My confidence increased and I was amazed of my capabilities that I didn’t recognize until I came to Willis. The atmosphere at Willis made me feel like I belonged to a large family; that we were all in it together to succeed. Hats off to the staff of Willis College because they work together as a team and everyone helps everyone. No one falls through the cracks. Thank you Willis College

Sharon Schwartz
November 18, 2011

I came to Willis in January of 2011. I was 21 and still hadn’t decided what it was I wanted to do with my life. I worked in retail at the time and a fellow employee told me about the Personal Support Worker program at Willis. That’s when I hit me what I wanted to do! When I first walked into Willis, I didn’t know what to expect. It was a small college and I was used to big schools. However, all it took was that first day to realize that Willis was the place for me! Everyone was close and extremely helpful! It wasn’t just school, it was a place to grow- and have A LOT of fun doing it! I have now graduated from Willis College at the top of my class with distinction honours and I have a job in the PSW field before I even finished! None of that would have been possible if not for Willis and the amazing staff there! So thank you Willis- I couldn’t have asked for more, you made my dream come true.

Chelsea LaForce-Syme
Dec 2/2011

Coming back to school was the best decision I’ve ever made. I was scared of the unknown but I was ready for a change. Willis College became my home away from home, the staff became like family and my classmates have become lifelong friends. Learning was made fun at Willis and especially by Jenifer Willis, my instructor. She is a great teacher and a wonderful person to talk too when you need her. Thanks to Willis College, I now have the tools and knowledge when caring for my residents at Rose Bridge Manor where I’ve been employed since July 2011. I love my job and I couldn’t have done it without the guidance and support of the College or its Staff.

Bev Clarke
December 7, 2011

I decided to come back to school to better myself as a person and to work in a field I truly love. I found it to be a lot of hard work, but in the end it has all worked out. I now am working for an Assisted Living Program for seniors to stay in their own homes as long as possible and I love it!

Tanya Giff
Dec 7/11

The decision to come back to school as an adult was easy. I was working full time at Future Shop in Brockville and hated it. It was time for a change. I had previously worked as a H.C.A. in the health care field, and found that I missed it. I contacted Willis College in Smiths Falls and enrolled in the PSW bridging program. The teachers and staff at Willis College were very helpful. Jenifer Willis was a great teacher and always challenged me to be my best. I am now employed at Sherwood Park Manor in Brockville and happy doing what I love.

Melissa Pepper
December 7/11

Thank you very much for all the assistance you provided while I was an Administrative Assistant student at Willis. The whole staff was very helpful and professional. My teacher (Darlene Webber-Crawford) was very knowledgeable and polite to everyone. She made the learning fun and interesting. Returning to school as a mature student was very daunting but I it sure feels great to be able to say I am now a college graduate. I really enjoyed my time at Willis College and would highly recommend it to anyone. The small class sizes were great and there was a friendly atmosphere where everyone was more than willing to help. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to study with instructors who are so passionate about teaching and so committed to their students

Sheila Summers
Aug 25/11

Finding myself out of a job and heading back to college again at age 43 was very scary for me. I had a family to support and it had been awhile since I was in school. Was I smart enough? Would I be able to handle homework and family obligations? Would I crack under pressure? All these questions were going through my mind. I worried for nothing. I began classes and made new friends. The smaller class sizes made it easier to learn. The staff and instructors at Willis College were fantastic. When things got rough, they were all there to support me and their doors were always open to talk. The instructors saw my potential and gave me the tools and skills to reach as high as I dared to dream! They taught me to believe in MYSELF! At Willis College, not only did I receive a quality education, I became part of a family. After graduation, the staff continued to support me through the job finding process. You are never alone at Willis College. Thanks, Willis!

Karen Bradford
Sept 20/11

When I first came to Willis College I had held jobs mostly in the customer service industry. I wanted more out of life. I wanted to make something of myself, have a career and set some goals. Willis College was the first step, and probably the most important. It has been an amazing journey. Being in a smaller class, I got to know my classmates and instructors on a more personal level. They became like family to me. They were always there with encouragement and support. This school provided me with a positive atmosphere filled with positive people who honestly cared and wanted me to succeed. All staff members at Willis College give 110% to help you achieve your goals and live up to your full potential. On top of the everyday support within school hours, I was also given the perfect opportunity to gain experience in my field through a co-op placement, which turned into a full-time job as soon as my program ended. So after a lot of hard work, determination, and encouragement from staff and students, I left Willis College with a new-found confidence and a full-time job with a reputable company. I feel like there are endless opportunities for me now and I have a bright future ahead of me with a challenging and rewarding career. Wills College was one of the best decisions of my life. I would highly recommend this school to anyone looking to make a difference in their lives

Laura Willey
Client Service Specialist, Revera Home Health
Oct.13/2011

I cannot give enough credit to Ann Knowlton, for her excellent effort in helping me secure a placement through the Honours Business Administration program. Ann went beyond what I could have expected and I am extremely thankful for that. Some excellent teachers, Administration staff, a few difficult spots and a one year later, I am pleased to say that I have secured a casual position within the Upper Canada District School Board. Many thanks to Ann and Darlene for their patience, listening ears, and extra effort all around.

Paula Gullen
Dec 16th, 2011

Willis College gave me the tools and skills necessary to make my transition to P.S.W a very successful one. Very professional teachers and enrollment staff. Thank you Willis College. Thanks

Pat Donahue
Dec 5/2011

"My name is Cory Page and I'm a 28-year-old student here at Willis College. I'm currently studying Network Systems Engineering and I volunteer at the Canadian Breast Cancer Network (CBCN) when I'm not studying. I left the CRA to pursue my dream job by going back to school and I chose Willis College over all of the other options available to me because of the quality of the program I'm taking and the extremely positive feedback from past students that I've received about Willis College"

School

My Mid-term evaluation shows I currently hold a 94% average overall.

I work with the school's placement worker and was able to, through my networking at the CBCN, facilitate a brand new partnership between Willis College of Business, Technology and Health and Workshift Systems Corporation.

I have already obtained two industry-recognized certifications in the Information Technology sector: CompTIA A+ and Microsoft MCP.

Volunteer Work with the Canadian Breast Cancer Network (CBCN)

I chose to volunteer here as this organization speaks to an issue that hit close to home last year. Last year my Mother went into the hospital to be treated for lumps inside once of her breasts and our family had worried it could be cancerous. Fortunately, it was determined to be benign and it has since been removed. During my studies, an opportunity through my college arrived with the CBCN and they needed someone that would help them with their day-to-day IT needs that any small business would have. They were also in the process of purchasing a new server and needed someone to help advocate their technical needs to their IT consulting company.

Since I've started I've been able to save the CBCN thousands of dollars in IT-related costs. This is achieved by having me resolve the problem onsite immediately without having to place a call to their IT consulting firm which charges per incident.

Last month the CBCN asked for new bids from IT consulting firms to provide service and support and I was asked to review the considerations and offer my recommendations to the CBCN. My review saved the CBCN an additional $700.00 during contract negotiations on parts and labour.

Most importantly, I've been able to help maintain the efforts that this organization puts into advocacy by making sure all of their equipment is functional and ready to use every day.

“Just 2 months after graduating from Willis College, I was hired by a major Network Security Company, making the best money I've ever made in my life!"

I came to Willis in the winter of 2009. I had spent a good 8 months looking for work. The economy was tanking, layoffs were piling up, and I had exhausted all my Employment Insurance benefits. I got a lucky break and with second career funding, I was able to secure a seat at Willis for their Network Engineer course.

When I walked in, I told myself, if I get anything from this at all, I would consider it worthwhile. I knew I was going to learn lots of new and interesting things, but I never expected walking in, that I would get any Certifications, and I wasn't even sure if coming out I'd be able to find work in the IT field. I had a lack confidence, and perhaps self esteem in me and my own abilities.

I worked hard, got good grades, and with some motivation from my instructors I found the courage to write my certifications. A year later, I stand proud holding: A+, MCP, MCDST, MCSA, MCSE, and I intend
to write my CCNA soon. I have plans to continue pursuing certifications such as CCNA wireless
and eventually CCNP. I've met new friends, made new memories and graduated with honors.

I've just recently been hired on with a major Network Security company, just 2 months after
graduating from Willis, making the best money I've ever made in my life!

Furthermore, thanks to the encouragement and positive motivation from the instructors, I have
gained confidence in my skills and abilities. Seriously, if I can do it, so can anyone! If you are
interested in Networking, or IT, this is the place for you.

Thanks to Everyone at Willis. I really miss you guys, and I honestly appreciate everything from
the knowledge to the memories. It's an experience I'll never forget!

Chris Magee

"I chose Willis College to further my education and career. It seemed like a natural choice because my grandmother graduated from Willis many years ago and she’s had a prosperous and challenging career in the same field of interest: office administration.

I followed in her footsteps and I haven’t regretted it since! I gained valuable skills and began my new career as an Administrator. Within a short amount of time I was promoted to a managerial position.

I decided to send my two daughters to Willis as well after they completed high school, making it now three generations of my family to graduate from Willis College and take on stimulating careers. I highly recommend Willis College!

Julie Lamarche
Supervisor, Revenue & Receivables
Ottawa Senators Hockey Club

"I appreciate the time and enthusiasm the staff and instructors contributed toward my training as an IT Professional at Willis College - Ottawa Campus. The course has become part of my professional training in the field.
Clearly the College's experience, especially the IT instructors shows the knowledge and maturity in managing a professional training institution.
Upon my graduation, I moved to B.C. and managed to land a job with the "Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympics Winter Games" as a Desktop Deployment Technician.
I feel it would be wonderful to be part of something as big as the Olympics for Canada and especially Vancouver.
Again I would like to thank Willis College for all the effort."

Zaid Hilfi
Desktop Deployment Technician
Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympics Winter Games

I am excited to write to you about my new job at CARE Canada. I am thrilled to be given an opportunity to work with this organization applying my IT skills in a Knowledge Mgmt and Technical Support Specialist role, which will include the opportunity to make use of my Microsoft .NET Certified Technology training provided by Willis College. It is a great match with my goals and my experience.

During my transition, I was aware of your support and good wishes. Thank you very much for your kindness and efforts. Each Willis College staff member has been instrumental in supporting me in my journey throughout my career in one form or another, and for that I am most grateful.

Friends, family, and the caring people that one surrounds oneself with become even more significant during life transitions. Please let me know if I can ever send extra support to your corner. I would love to return the help and support I have received.

I have always wanted to secure a permanent position in the Government. All the benefits, security and flexibility offered with Government departments are a must for a single mother like me with twin daughters. However, getting my 'foot in' has always been a challenge.

I needed to polish those customer service/administrative/clerical skills and experiences that I acquired in the work field and I needed to secure my future with a diploma that would highlight my knowledge. After carefully screening a list of qualified colleges, Willis College seemed to be the best college to offer me what I was aiming for - a career.

Throughout my journey at Willis College, I received the outmost attention; support and a helping hand that I needed to complete my program. At the end, I got more than just an administrative diploma from Willis College; I got exactly what I have been dreaming of, planning and hoping for: a chance to have a career within the Government.

Willis staff worked closely at getting me an interview, provided excellent references when needed, gave me good feedback and followed up on my progress. All of which resulted in getting me a paid Co-op placement in the Federal Government with the possibility of bridging into full time permanent employment.

WOW! Who would have thought within one year I would have accomplished this? Well let me tell you, with lots of ambition, determination and WILLIS COLLEGE, anything is possible!

“My previous technical I.T. skills became obsolete in the Ottawa area. With the economy in the dumps and lots of competition in the job search, I returned to school and graduated from Willis’s Microsoft .NET Technologist Specialist program within 5 months.

I do have extensive previous experience in the IT field however, What I learned at Willis College gave me current new updated skills which was the breaker in being selected for a Programmer/Analyst position within 2 months of graduating. I now work at the Ottawa Hospital. Thank you Willis College!"

Dear Chris,

I am done pounding the pavement thanks to you; I found employment with Bell Canada as a Network Technician. I couldn’t be happier with my new career move and I owe many thanks to you and Willis College Staff. You gave me All the leads, Networking, Advice, and encouragement anyone could want I hope I can return the favour to each of you.

Thanks

Ahmed Hassan

“I have attended schools in Canada both in the public and private sector - at Willis College everything is different - but you have to see for yourself to believe it.
For my 2nd career, I was looking for real education and training that leads to a job in a short period of time and honestly that is what I got from this great school - Isn't this what we all go to school for? 
There are no words describing my happiness right now - from the administrative staff to the instructors, they are the best!  

I will recommend this institution to everyone for a second career or for any skills training needs.
Thank you very much for everything you have done for me - this is not a traditional testimony, this is a real story.”

Believe “I.T.”, or not…It’s not hard if you’re a Willis Graduate!

“Once again Willis graduates proved they can make it regardless of the challenges involved.” – Imad Elzein, MCSE &CCNA

“In 2007 when I decided to enroll in the IT program at Willis College, I found it unique in providing students with hands-on and quality education, taught by experienced instructors who are professionals in their field.

In addition, I found the atmosphere is not only professional but gives the student an overall feeling of confidence and motivation. The program provided me with a solid knowledge of information technology and networks design and prepared me to excel in today's workplace as an IT professional.

After graduation, Willis College assisted me in getting a job opportunity with Health Canada where I got involved in working with teams of experts in the field of IT and networks to design, develop, migrate deploy and test new systems and applications for the Deputy Health Minister office.

At an early stage the project was called a Proof Of Concept (POC) since the outcome was unknown and a sample of 50 users were selected to apply our design methodology to their PCs.

The knowledge, education, and experience I gained at Willis made me succeed in the POC project and my contributions along with the rest of the team released a $32 million dollars budget to implement nationwide the next phases for 13,000 users of Health Canada employees.

As a result of my success in July 2008 the Deputy Health Minister of Canada recognized my outstanding effort as a member of the Email and Office Automation Suite Proof of Concept (POC) Migration Team and issued me a Certificate of Recognition for the hard work and dedication I made. – Thank you Willis“

BA & Willis…
The best thing
I have done!

“Willis College was a great experience in life early on. The training I received helped me get focused on my future and better understand what to expect when I would join the work force. The instructors were fantastic and really knew what they were talking about by providing a curriculum that was understandable, relevant and on point when it came to what I would use once I would graduate.

I would recommend Willis to anyone who really wants to get a head-start on understanding what it takes to be successful in today business world.”

MCSE & Willis
-the best thing
I have done!

I found my learning experience with Willis College to be beyond my expectations. This experience provided me with new-found learning and life skills, and the confidence to get my career back on track. The MCSE 2003 Certification along with Willis College’s name gave me the opportunity to find a job that suited my skills and interests in the IT field. This is the best thing I could have done with my career!

I am a proud
alumni of
Willis College!

“As a skilled immigrant who was trying to transfer her own knowledge into a Canadian practice, my enrollment as a student at Willis College has been a changing and positive opportunity for me.

At Willis College I found a perfect classroom medium such as small and fast-paced classes, professional and excellent instructors, hands-on simulated applications, references and materials for thorough studies. Their courses are well tailored to increase employability, to update students’ knowledge for today’s job market, and more than all, they promote an attitude for success.”

Willis Training
Sets You Apart!

“After graduating from the Willis College MCSE 2003 Program, I was hired on for a coop by United Way from the IT Manager who also happened to be a graduate of Willis College!
Now I am a Network Administrator hiring other Willis graduates to work at United Way of Canada."

IF YOU WANT TO RECHARGE YOURSELF OR REDIRECT YOUR CAREER, CHOOSE
WILLIS COLLEGE!

“In this information booming era, it is hard for IT professionals to remain on top of the game without continuous learning and training.

Fortunately, I found Willis College, which is one of the best training institutes in Canada and provides quality courses with IT certificates and diploma.

The college possesses a well organized team, knowledgeable and experienced instructors and excellent Labs. It also provides more co-op opportunities for graduates. After several months of training, I eliminated my skill gaps quickly and acquired competitive certificates in IT fields such as MCSE 2003 and CCNA.

Thank to Willis, I regained my self-confidence and obtained more exciting employment opportunities. Otherwise I would have to spend a long time trying to find my ideal career position, even though I have a Computer Science Master’s degree.

Therefore, if you want to recharge yourself or redirect your career, choose Willis College!”

AFTER THREE YEARS OF GRADUATING FROM WILLIS COLLEGE, ERIN LAMARCHE-BLASKIE HAS BEEN FORTUNATE ENOUGH TO GROW, LIVE AND EXPERIENCE THE ENTREPRENEURIAL DREAM

“I chose Willis College to further my education and career and I have not regretted it. It seemed like a natural choice because my grandmother, mother, aunt and sister all graduated from Willis College. I highly recommend Willis College to anyone who is serious about their career success!”

Willis College
gave me
confidence!

“I highly recommend Willis College for those who want to change careers. It has surely changed my lifestyle, my career, my self-esteem and confidence. If you’re looking for competent, up-to-date material and an overall outstanding quality of training, Willis College is the one for you.”

Willis Training
Sets You Apart!

“Willis is the only college where student’s overall success is the only priority. There are no words to describe marvels of Willis College staff and the quality of their education!

Did you know that there are organizations in Ottawa where you will find Willis graduates as employers hiring another Willis graduates over and over again?

I was told that Willis College was the state of the arts recruitment center for the state of the arts community”.

Willis IT
Training
= JOB!

“Willis College enabled a smooth transition during my career change into the IT field. They provided excellent instruction and assisted with Co-op placements upon completion of the course. Through the confidence and skills I gained at Willis College, I was able to secure a position in the IT department at Canada Border Services Agency.”

Proud to
join a family of Willis graduates!

“Like many other same families, my boyfriend and I are both Willis College graduates! Working as an Administrative Assistant has given me the chance to further my career. I was so pleased with Willis that I had referred my boyfriend who has graduated with a Network Administrator Diploma and now is working at Canada Border Services Agency in the government. Learning, Living and Working – Thank-You Willis!”

As part of the building blocks to a second career, I chose Willis College. Now I am an A+ MCSA/MCSE!

“I truly believe that people need to know more about a Willis student’s experience. 
I had one of the best educational experiences anyone could ever ask for. 

In just 44 weeks, Willis provided me with invaluable knowledge, insight and information in order for me to be better prepared in securing work in the IT sector. As a result, gainful employment has been secured for yet another Willis grad!”