OCNews

What is your name? 

Jessica Skerlec

What are your pronouns? 

She/her

Where is your hometown and where are you located now? 

Raised in Kelowna and still currently living in Kelowna.

What did you take at OC? What campus did you attend?

I took my Bachelor’s of Business Administration at Okanagan College, specializing in Human Resources Management at the Kelowna Campus.

What is your current position?  

Negotiator for the National Collective Bargaining Institute.

Why did you choose your program at OC? How does it relate to what you’re doing now? 

I chose to complete my BBA at OC because of it’s outstanding reputation for producing qualified graduates and offering variety of specialized course offerings students are unable to find at other institutes and universities. 

What was one of your most meaningful memories during your time at OC?

My most meaningful memory at OC was winning Gold at the 2023 Queen’s University Intercollegiate Business Case Competition in the Human Resources Stream.

What do you think has been the biggest turning point for your career success?

My biggest turning point was joining the OBSA executive team in my second year of studies, eventually becoming president of the association. Pursuing this allowed me to become more involved in the school outside of the classroom and expanding my network of connections, while creating opportunities to host meaningful events for the student body and further establish myself in the local business community. 

Are there any awards, achievements or activities that you would like to highlight?

I.C.B.C. 2023 Human Resources Gold Medalist, 2023 HRC West Case Competition Competitor, President of the OBSA, Dean’s List Graduate. 

What advice would you pass on to current/future students? 

I strongly encourage all students to become involved at the College beyond their classrooms, as it creates valuable connections and opportunities with their peers, professors and faculty, and the local community. Whether it is competing in case competitions, joining associations or clubs, or simply attending networking and social events on and off campus, students become exposed to information and learnings that expand beyond their course material, and are able to truly create a meaningful brand for themselves.

When you’re not working, what are you doing?

When I’m not working, I’m always staying active playing soccer or spending time with my family and friends!

Connect with Jessica

LinkedIn       National Collective Bargaining Institute