Durham College is leading the way in skilled trades

Category: Programs & Academics

There has never been a better time to enter the skilled trades, and there’s no better place to do it than Durham College (DC).

Ontario is facing an unprecedented labour shortage in the skilled trades, and it’s only getting bigger. With the population booming, 1.5 million homes are expected to be built by 2031, with an estimated 72,000 new workers to do it.

That represents a lot of opportunities for students like you, and DC’s wide range of programs will have you ready to take advantage of them by the time you cross the stage at graduation.

DC has been leading the way in this critically important sector for a long time, but last year’s opening of the Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology (CSTT) further cemented our Whitby campus as the place to be for skilled labour education.

If you have your eye on one of those 72,000 new jobs, we have the program for you, no matter which trade you have in mind. Here’s a look at just some of the programs that will make sure you’re ready to answer Ontario’s call in the coming years.

  • Carpentry – Building Construction Technician and Carpentry and Renovation TechnicianDC offers two Carpentry programs, both of which will have you ready to help build Ontario’s future.

    In the Building Construction Technician program, you’ll hone fundamental carpentry skills like framing, sanding and roofing. At the same time, you’ll learn the foundational skills you need to build homes and buildings that meet the Ontario Building Code, using up-to-date materials and a low carbon footprint.

    The Renovation Technician program expands your knowledge of all the other aspects of a project, including electricity and plumbing. You’ll study important topics like kitchen and bath Renovation, HVAC building science and demolition and deconstruction.

  • Electrical Engineering TechnicianSo much of our world is powered by electricity. The lights that illuminate your home and office, the televisions you watch, the ovens and microwaves that heat your food; none of them would function without it. With electricity playing such a key role in our society, a skilled electrician is always in demand.

    This program will teach you the fundamentals of electrically based technologies and how to safely assemble, install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical equipment. You’ll learn the intricacies of the Canadian Electrical Code, electrical theory and motor controls, among other subjects.

    You’ll be able to put your skills to work in a variety of roles, from electrical apprentice to telecommunications technician and beyond.

  • Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques (HVAC)If you can’t wait to enter the booming market of skilled labour jobs, this might be the program for you. In just two semesters, you’ll develop highly sought-after skills and learn the fundamentals of heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

    HVAC technicians have a number of important responsibilities, like installing the furnace that heats your home and the air conditioning system that cools your office. Learning about electric circuitry and gas installation systems will get you ready to enter the fuel and trade sectors.

  • Mechanical Technician – Elevating DevicesElevators and escalators are ubiquitous in modern life. We use them every day, but we rarely think much about them until they stop working. When that happens, everybody has to use the stairs; at least until an elevating devices mechanic arrives!

    Working in the CSTT’s specialized lab, students in this in-demand program get hands-on experience working on functional elevators and escalators.

    With so many high-rise buildings throughout Durham Region and the Greater Toronto Area – and more going up every year – there are countless opportunities for work in this field. Whether you’re installing a brand-new elevator or escalator and ensuring it functions safely, or repairing an aging device in an older building, your knowledge and experience will be put to good use.

  • Mechanical Techniques – PlumbingLike the other skilled trade fields, plumbing is critically important. After all, every one of those new homes will need to have plumbing installed and maintained in the years to come.

    Working in the CSTT’s specialized plumbing lab, you’ll gain valuable theoretical knowledge and practical hands-on training in the basics of residential and commercial plumbing as well as hydronic heating system designs and installations.

    In just two semesters, this program will have you ready to enter this high-demand field as a plumbing apprentice.

    For information on these and other programs in the skilled trade fields, visit our website.

Durham College is proud to partner with the Schulich Foundation to award Schulich Builders Scholarships to students enrolling in full-time certificate and diploma programs in some of the most in-demand skilled trades fields.

Scholarships are valued at up to $40,000 — $20,000 per academic year – and support the cost of tuition, living expenses and tools. Schulich Builders will also benefit from opportunities at DC that enhance their experience and assist with their employability after graduation. Learn more at www.durhamcollege.ca/schulichbuilders.