GEOLOGICAL ASSISTANT JOB PROVIDES VALUABLE EXPERIENCE FOR STUDENT

A summer job as a Geological Assistant with the department of Industry and Resources is helping Chelsey Ebel achieve her goal of becoming a geologist.

"This job has confirmed my choice to become a geologist," Ebel said. "I really can't see myself in any other field of work anymore."

Originally from Hodgeville, Ebel is a student at the University of Regina and one of 502 students hired in 2005 by government departments as part of two summer student programs: the Centennial Student Employment Program (CSEP) and the Summer Student Employment program.

"We hope these students will find their experiences rewarding," Minister responsible for the Public Service Commission Pat Atkinson said. "When they are finished their education, we encourage them to consider career opportunities in the public service."

Atkinson said student programs are designed to offer students opportunities to gain work experience in the public service within their area of study, and to help offset the costs of education.

In her summer job, Ebel works at mapping geological data in northern Saskatchewan. Once she completes her degree, she hopes to seek permanent employment with the department of Industry and Resources. In the meantime, she says her summer job is a rewarding experience she won't forget.

"It's not in an office and every day is different," she said. "It is a real adventure."

Students in the public service Student Employment Programs work at various jobs including lab assistant, park interpreter and forestry technician. The majority of positions are for the summer months; however, some students will also work part-time during the school year. Other programs of interest to students offered through the provincial public service include internship programs and co-op work-term opportunities.

"The nature of the government workplace is so varied and diverse that we are able to offer students a range of interesting opportunities," Atkinson said. "Often students are able to gain employment in their field of study."

Students who wish to apply for future jobs in government may do so via the Government of Saskatchewan's student jobs web site, located at www.gov.sk.ca/psc/student.

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For More Information, Contact:

Colleen Hawkesford Public Service Commission Regina Phone: (306) 787-5581