UWindsor names NextStar Energy Co-op Employer of the Year

NextStar Energy exterior in Windsor, Ont

The University of Windsor has named NextStar Energy the Co-op Employer of the Year for 2025. A manager was also named Outstanding Supervisor by the school.

NextStar says it looks to create meaningful opportunities for students to get firsthand experience through its growing co-op program.

“By investing in highly skilled local students, we’re creating a strong talent pipeline and laying the foundation for NextStar Energy’s long-term growth and success,” said Brett Hillock, chief operating officer of NextStar Energy.

“Our co-op students have a rare opportunity to experience some of the most advanced battery technology in an environment where they can learn, grown, and contribute to our daily operations as part of our team.”

The University of Windsor said NextStar stood out because it ‘embraced co-op as a true partnership.’

“In a relatively short amount of time, they’ve grown their involvement with our programs and consistently provided students with meaningful work, strong mentorship, and a genuinely welcoming environment,” said Kerri Zold, manager of co-operative education and workplace partnerships at the university.

“Their commitment to developing co-op talent speaks volumes about how they value learning and the future workforce. We’re really proud to work with them and to recognize the positive impact they’re having on our students.”

Krista Ammonite, continuous improvement manager with NextStar, was named as Outstanding Supervisor for her ‘outstanding leadership in mentoring the next generation of talent and her dedication to hands-on learning.’

NextStar Energy has had more than 80 co-op students from six different universities in Ontario since 2024.