Building Connections and Finding Direction: Ben’s Journey Through the Connector Program
Connector July 24, 2026
When Benjamin Gotte graduated from Okanagan College in 2025 with a Bachelor of Business Administration, he knew he wanted to pursue a career in the financial industry. However, like many recent graduates, he was not entirely sure where to begin.
That uncertainty led him to the Connector Program.
“I joined the Connector Program as a recent graduate looking to build my professional network and learn more about opportunities within the financial industry.”
He was looking for more than just a job. He wanted to understand the landscape, explore different paths, and hear directly from those already working in the field. As he put it, he wanted to “connect with experienced professionals, gain career advice, and better understand the different paths available.”
Delivered through the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission (COEDC), the Connector Program helps students, recent graduates, newcomers, and professionals expand their networks through meaningful, one-on-one introductions with local business leaders. At its core, the program is built on a simple idea: one connection can lead to many more.
“One of the most helpful parts of the program has been the quality of the connections I have made,” said Ben.
Each conversation was an opportunity to learn. He connected with experienced professionals across the financial sector, people who were not only knowledgeable, but also generous with their time and insights.
“They took the time to answer my questions,” Ben shared, “explain different career paths, and recommend additional people and companies to connect with.”
As those conversations built on one another, his network expanded beyond the initial introductions, connecting him with professionals across a variety of industries. What began as a broad exploration of options started to take shape.
Going into the program, Ben was interested in exploring several different career paths. Through continued discussions, he began to narrow his focus.
He shared that the conversations helped him narrow down the areas he found most interesting and where he could see himself long term.
Each new connection reinforced the value of building relationships early in a career, while also deepening his understanding of the industry.
“As a result of participating in the Connector Program, I have learned a lot about the industry and the importance of networking. Each conversation has helped me grow both professionally and personally,” says Ben.
Hearing directly from professionals provided insights beyond what can be learned in a classroom, contributing to both his personal and professional growth. In some cases, those connections led to tangible opportunities.
Through one introduction, Ben secured an interview for a Member Advisor position at a major financial institution, an opportunity that stemmed directly from the relationships he built through the program. That connection continued to open doors, leading to introductions within other areas of the organization.
“Thanks to that connection,” Ben explained, “I had an interview for a Member Advisor position, and I am now being introduced to professionals in other divisions that I am excited to learn more about.”
For Ben, this is where the true value of the Connector Program stands out. It is not just about meeting people; it is about building relationships that create momentum and open doors over time.
“Overall, I have really enjoyed the Connector Program because it has given me the opportunity to expand my network and gain a much clearer understanding of the careers I am interested in pursuing,” he shared.
For students, recent graduates, and those new to the region, the program offers a supportive and welcoming way to build meaningful connections and explore career opportunities.
“I would absolutely recommend the Connector Program to others,” he said, describing it as “a great way to build meaningful connections, learn from experienced professionals, and gain insight into potential career opportunities.”
In the Central Okanagan’s collaborative business community, stories like Ben’s demonstrate how powerful a simple introduction can be, turning conversations into connections, and connections into lasting opportunities.
Interested in becoming a Connector or Connectee? The Connector Program is open to students, recent graduates, newcomers, and professionals looking to grow their network, as well as established business leaders interested in sharing their knowledge and connections. Individuals can learn more and apply by visiting the COEDC website and completing the online application to get started.
