Interns today, leaders tomorrow: The value of internships at Qualico

To find the next generation of leaders, Star Building Materials is working with Supply-Build Canada (formerly the Western Retail Lumber Association) and the Government of Alberta to launch a new paid internship program this summer targeting high school students. 

Spearheaded by Ken Crockett, Vice-President, Star Building Materials Alberta, the new internship program aims to give young people valuable experience and explore the wealth of career opportunities in the construction field.

“Within our industry, we tend to get caught up looking for that experienced person to fill job opportunities, and we lose sight of how most of us got started,” said Ken.

At the age of 16, Ken got his start in construction loading pick-up trucks at the local lumber yard. With a strong work ethic, curious mindset, and commitment to professional development, he worked his way up the ranks by taking on different roles and building an in-demand skillset that positioned him well for a successful career in the construction industry.

Today, Ken is Vice-President of Star Building Materials, a Qualico Company that has grown to become Western Canada’s largest independent lumber and building materials retailer.

A steadfast proponent of construction as a rewarding and fulfilling career, Ken highlights that the industry offers competitive pay and requires minimal upfront investment in education to begin. He also emphasizes the "vastness of opportunity" available in various roles at Star and Qualico, many of which can be challenging to fill.

“It just requires hard work and guidance, and if you're willing to put in the time, you'll get the experience on the job, and the sky’s the limit on where that can take you,” said Ken.

The value of internships

Throughout Qualico’s diverse operations, there are countless stories of highly valued long-term employees who began as summer students or interns and worked their way up to achieve great things for the company.

Claudio Palumbo, Regional Vice-President, Qualico Southern Alberta, says the benefits of hiring interns, co-op and apprentice students are immense.

“They bring new energy, a willingness to learn, and different perspectives to various roles throughout the company,” said Claudio. “It is also an excellent way for us at Qualico to engage and assess talent and abilities for potential full-time employment.”

These benefits also extend to candidates themselves, who get an opportunity to gain valuable work experience that could lead to a rewarding career with one of Western Canada’s largest fully integrated real estate companies.

Kim Engel, Senior Regional HR Business Partner, Qualico Southern Alberta Region, says interns can explore different career paths without any long-term commitment.

“Internships allow young people to try out a career, helping them make more informed decisions on what they want to do with their life. Students can find a new passion, learn new skills, discover their strengths, and look forward to building a fulfilling career at Qualico.”

Stories of intern success at Qualico

Qualico offers rewarding career paths and opportunities in a multitude of positions. Here are some stories of interns who got their start with Qualico, and went on to become valued full-time employees who are Helping Build Better Cities.

Cole Hendry, Sales Manager
Star Building Materials Calgary

After pursuing his love of golf and competing for a spot on the Canadian Tour, Cole studied business at Mount Royal University where he secured a marketing internship with Qualico Communities Calgary in 2018. 

The opportunity gave Cole a chance to explore his professional interests outside of golf and build valuable skills aligned to his degree and career aspirations.  “I met many people through the internship, which helped build my network and apply my education in a professional setting,” said Cole.

Those experiences and connections led him to full-time employment with Qualico where he was able to test the waters and refine his career path. In 2020, he was hired at Star Building Materials and was promoted to Sales Manager in 2024. He continues to thrive there today as a leader and valued team member.

Alexandria Gauthier, Designer
Star Ready to Move Homes

While studying architectural technology at Red River Polytech, Alexandria got an opportunity to intern with Qualico.

“Given the size and popularity of Qualico, I saw an opportunity for advancement and growth,” Alexandria said. “The internship gave me the resources and connections to get to a position that I love, where my hard work is not only valued and appreciated but rewarded with further opportunities for growth and advancement.”

Upon graduation in 2021, Alexandria knew that wood frame and residential construction was her passion. Today, she is a vital contributor to Star Ready to Move Homes’ drafting team, where she applies her keen eye for detail and love of design to help customers obtain the home of their dreams.

Manny Goossen, Digital Marketing & Branding Specialist
Qualico Corporate

An accomplished musician and music producer, Manny always brings a creative touch to everything he does.

After completing a B.Sc. degree at the U of M, he sought to leverage his creative strengths through Red River Polytech’s Creative Communications program, where he had an opportunity to intern with Qualico in his final year.

“I made strong connections and knew that if you’re hard working, honest and treat others the way you’d like to be treated, more often than not you’ll set yourself up for success in your role and also later down the road,” he said.

Manny was hired on a permanent basis in 2019, working in Corporate Services as a Communications and Marketing Specialist. In 2024, he transitioned to the Marketing Support Services team, and now with Qualico Marketing, he manages and executes on branding, design and website development projects that help Qualico connect and remain top of mind with customers, employees and the wider community.