Empowering success: A student testimonial - Margaux Knoerr
September 13, 2024 – Defence Stories

Margaux Knoerr
My name is Margaux and I'm from Ottawa, Ontario. I am currently in my final year of my Honours Bachelors in Conflict Studies and Human Rights in French at the University of Ottawa. I have been a student with the Department of National Defence (DND) for almost a year now.
I work in the Engagements and Strategic Partnerships team under Chief Professional Conduct and Culture (CCPC). I joined DND through my university's Co-op program in September last year where I've stayed on for two four-month terms and as a part-time student during my studies. I contribute to a couple different teams in communications, strategic partnerships, and stakeholder relations. I've also helped our Outreach and Engagement team plan and deliver internal and external conduct and culture engagements.
While this is not my first experience in the federal government, it is my first position with DND. My student experience here has been really rewarding. I've gotten many opportunities since I've joined. For example, I was able to travel to Montreal and tour the HMCS Harry DeWolfe, volunteer in my organization's social committee, become a Positive Space Ambassador, and be a member of the Defence Women's Advisory Organization (DWAO).
Although I am working on a hybrid schedule, one of my favourite things about DND is coming into the office at NDHQ Carling. Working alongside military members and other dedicated public service employees has shown me many valuable and diverse perspectives that can be applied both in my professional and personal development.
This summer, I am leading the implementation of the Framework for external DND/CAF conduct and culture related engagement throughout DND, so I am really looking forward to achieving that. Working at DND has been an enriching experience and is a workplace I recommend to all students interested in supporting our Defence Team!
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Contact
- If you are a student and want to submit a testimonial, please send an email to hrciv_communications_rhciv@forces.gc.ca
- Hiring managers, if you need support finding a student for your team, contact the National Student Hiring Team at CIV.DND.NationalStudentHiring-EmbaucheNationaleEtudiants.MDN@forces.gc.ca