EVolveSkills - Durham College

Upskilling Ontario’s technicians for the electric future

Durham College (DC) is supporting Ontario’s automotive service and body repair technicians as they prepare for the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) sector through EVolveSkills, a free upskilling program offered in partnership with Achēv. Designed for licensed technicians and apprentices, the program provides hands-on knowledge and essential safety training to properly service and repair hybrid and electric vehicles.

Through its collaboration with Achēv, DC is able to tap into their strong workforce development expertise and deep community connections. Achēv has engaged with hundreds of automotive shops across Ontario, identifying technicians who are eager to strengthen their skills and advance their careers.

Why EVolveSkills matters

As the automotive industry shifts toward electric mobility, EVolveSkills helps technicians stay ahead of the curve. Participants gain practical skills in:

High-voltage safety
Hybrid and electric powertrains
EV battery systems

Whether you’re looking to build confidence, expand your skills, or prepare your shop for EV service, EVolveSkills gives you the training to take the next step.

EVolveSkills details

EVolveSkills combines online learning with in-person sessions at DC’s Whitby campus. Key program details include:

Duration: 30 hours over approximately three weeks, including evenings and select Saturdays
Cost: Funded by the Government of Canada and is free for eligible participants
Format: Online modules plus hands-on in-person training
Eligibility: Licensed automotive service or body repair technicians, journeymen, and third-year apprentices who are Ontario residents aged 18+
Priority Access for Equity-deserving groups: Including women, youth, newcomers, Indigenous learners, racialized persons, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and persons with disabilities

Slide

This program gives licensed automotive professionals a chance to safely explore the technologies driving the shift to electric vehicles. It’s designed to build confidence through hands-on experience with high-voltage systems and components, supported by the same faculty and facilities that deliver our Electric Drive Vehicle Technician (EDVT) program.

Mike Frederick,
Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship, Durham College

Slide

This program helped me build confidence working safely with high-voltage systems and better understand the different types of electric vehicles. I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who’s unfamiliar or uncomfortable with EVs.

Matthew Fraser,
EVolveSkills participant

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EVolveSkills reflects the power of partnership between education and industry, equipping learners with future-ready skills while supporting employers in meeting the growing demand for EV expertise.

Tanvi Sukhija,
Program Manager, Achēv