DC Computer students are powering up their skills

For students in Durham College’s (DC) Computer Systems Technology and Computer Systems Technician programs, learning happens well beyond the classroom. Over the past year, students have connected with technology professionals, explored emerging technologies, and put their skills to the test through hands-on and simulated industry experiences.

Annual events such as DC’s IT Student Expo and Hack-a-Thon, held in March and April, give students additional opportunities for students to collaborate, showcase their work, and build connections within the industry.

Here’s a look at three experiences that brought classroom learning to life and gave students a closer look at the people, technologies, and challenges shaping their future careers.

Making industry connections
More than 50 students from Computer Systems Technology, Computer Systems Technician, Computer Systems Technician – Transfer to Ontario Tech University Bachelor of Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Computer Programming, and Computer Programming and Analysis connected with technology professionals through a networking event hosted in partnership with the ISACA Toronto Chapter. Students heard first-hand from industry leaders who shared their personal career journeys and insights into certifications, professional networking, continuous learning and adaptability, offering a closer look at the people and career paths behind the technology sector.

Putting technical skills to the test
Third-year Computer Systems Technology students took on simulated, real-world cloud challenges through AWS Jam — an interactive, gamified learning experience. Working in teams in a live AWS environment, students used cloud services to troubleshoot problems, think critically and collaborate under pressure. The experience gave students hands-on practice with cloud technologies while strengthening the problem-solving skills they can bring to future technology careers.

Students also strengthened their cybersecurity skills through the Cisco Cyber Games Americas 2026 Learn-A-Thon. Through the self-paced Ethical Hacker course, students explored cybersecurity concepts, ethical hacking methodologies and security practices used to protect modern organizations, expanding their technical skills beyond the classroom.

Exploring technology’s impact on the community
Through DC’s partnership with TeachingCity Oshawa, second-year Computer Systems students recently learned about municipal technology from Steve Patterson, Manager of Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Operations at the City of Oshawa. Patterson shared how networking, infrastructure, and cybersecurity support projects such as Next Generation 9-1-1 and Advanced Vehicle Systems, along with advice on certifications, professional development, and recruitment.