Tag: HBCM | Blogs

Building a career in the construction industry

Posted on June 11, 2026 at 9:16 am.

Graduate Spotlight: Reagan Francis-Newman

Reagan Francis-Newman is about to become a two-time Durham College (DC) graduate.

After completing the Civil Engineering Technology Advanced Diploma in 2024, she bridged into the Construction Management – Honours Bachelor and will be recognized as one of the program’s very first graduates at this year’s Convocation.

As she launches her career in the construction industry, she told us why taking advantage of your opportunities is so important, and how DC’s focus on student success prepared her to excel in the workforce.

Why did you decide to attend Durham College?

I chose Durham College because of its strong reputation for hands-on, career-focused programs. I was specifically drawn to the Construction Management program because it combines technical knowledge with practical, real-world application. I wanted an education that would prepare me for a career, not just a classroom, and Durham College offered exactly that.

What was your DC experience like?

My experience at Durham College has been incredibly rewarding. The supportive environment and smaller class sizes made it easy to build meaningful connections with professors and classmates. What stood out most was how practical the coursework was. Concepts I learned in class, such as scheduling, estimating, project planning, and construction management, were directly applicable during my co-op placements with organizations like Ontario Power Generation, Aecon Nuclear and the Region of Durham. Being able to connect classroom learning to real projects helped strengthen my understanding and confidence as I prepared to enter the industry.

How did your DC program prepare you for your career?

My program prepared me by giving me both technical and professional skills that I use every day. I gained experience with project scheduling, construction planning, cost control, and project coordination while also developing strong communication, problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork abilities. The program’s emphasis on real-world application made the transition into the workforce much smoother.

I currently work as a Project Coordinator supporting a major wastewater treatment plant refurbishment project. In my role, I assist with project planning, procurement, document control, cost tracking, and coordination between project teams. The skills and experiences I gained at Durham College helped me feel prepared and confident stepping into this role.

Would you recommend your DC program to other students?

Absolutely. The Construction Management program offers an excellent balance of theory and hands-on learning. It not only provides a strong technical foundation but also helps students develop the professional skills needed to succeed in the workplace. The combination of classroom learning, industry-focused projects, and co-op opportunities makes it a valuable experience for anyone interested in the construction industry.

What is your advice for future students?

Take advantage of every opportunity available to you, whether that’s participating in co-op placements, networking with industry professionals, joining committees, or simply asking questions in class. Some of my most valuable experiences came from stepping outside my comfort zone and getting involved.

I would also encourage students to stay consistent and organized throughout the program. Construction Management courses often build on concepts learned in previous semesters, so developing good habits early makes a significant difference. Learning how to manage deadlines, coordinate multiple priorities, and stay organized not only helps academically but also prepares you for the realities of working in the construction industry.

What do you love most about DC?

What I love most about Durham College is its commitment to student success. From knowledgeable professors to the various support services available, there is a genuine focus on helping students achieve their goals. The college creates an environment where students are encouraged to grow academically, professionally, and personally.

How do you feel about graduating?

Graduating is both exciting and rewarding. Earning my Honours Bachelor of Construction Management represents years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I am incredibly proud of what I have accomplished, and I am excited to begin the next chapter of my career while continuing to learn and grow within the industry.

What are your future goals?

My goal is to continue building my career within the construction industry, with a particular interest in project coordination, project controls, and project management. I look forward to gaining experience, taking on greater responsibilities, and contributing to meaningful infrastructure projects. Long term, I hope to grow into leadership roles where I can help guide successful projects and mentor future professionals entering the industry.

Every year, DC celebrates thousands of career-ready graduates. Read more grad stories about how DC has helped them thrive.

DC Construction Management degree responds to industry demand for next generation of workers

Posted on January 10, 2025 at 1:29 pm.

Sina Safinia is a faculty member in Durham College’s (DC) Honours Bachelor of Construction Management (HBCM) degree, and with lots of experience both in the industry and in the classroom, he’s still got an ear to the ground. From his contacts, he knows that there’s demand for what this program offers: a strong balance of management courses alongside business, project management, engineering and design. Two field placements (one optional) that provide options for on-site learning are also attractive components.

Now in its third year, this degree program offered at the Whitby campus is attracting a variety of students, from high school graduates to people working in industry who want to uplevel their skills to a career.

HBCM student Britney Reid said she chose the program because she’s always been intrigued by the transformation from concept to functional structure. “I’ve enjoyed learning about the engineering processes behind the construction of unique structures and everyday buildings. I find the coordination and speed of these projects fascinating, and I want to actively participate in this process.”

Safinia notes that the program is attracting students who see themselves in the industry long term. “The program is good for a person who is planning to get into management, who might be starting in project management and site supervision, and then might move into positions as firm managers,” he said. He added that the program is also attractive to employers for its extensive placements at 14 weeks (420 hours), which provides a longer timeframe for mentorship and training.

The opportunity to build skills through multiple courses provides the kind of in-depth learning that will set degree students apart in this industry, said Safinia.

“Analysis skills, research skills, working with teams, learning advanced levels of skills, for example in the four-year program, students learn about research methods, and conduct a research project.”

He adds the program also responds to an industry concern about aging leaders aging and the need for a new generation of managers who can step up. “As managers are getting closer to retirement, there’s not a lot of fresh blood to take their place,” he said.

As a full-time professor in the program, Safinia teaches the Introduction to Construction Management, Business Foundations and Foundations of Project Management courses. Yet the program also brings in part-time faculty still working in industry, including organizations such as Metrolinx and Stantec. Guest speakers from a variety of firms boost that industry connection even further, a combination that students appreciate.

“The professors sharing their real-world knowledge and experiences provides a comprehensive understanding of the industry, and also I appreciate the opportunities for industry exposure through guest lectures, site visits, and upcoming field placements, which help connect the classroom to real-world practices,” said Reid.

The program even organizes field trips, for example this past year to a concrete plant, and regularly to housing charity Habitat for Humanity. “This all helps students build those important connections,” said Safinia.

Pathways are available into the program from DC’s Civil Engineering Technology advanced diploma program, and the degree also opens options for graduate studies, including two already formally established pathways to the master’s level. HBCM also lays the foundation for graduates to pursue certifications from relevant industry bodies such as the Canadian Construction Association, the Canadian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, and the Project Management Institute.

While Reid is still pondering her own pathway, she’s certain that she chose the right training. “The comprehensive knowledge provided by this degree program is extremely valuable. The exposure to various technologies, software, and practices is amazing and will help me stay ahead in this evolving industry. Combining the skills and knowledge from the program with real-world experience, I’m confident I will be able to deliver successful outcomes in my future career.”

Three reasons to take a degree at Durham College

Posted on August 1, 2024 at 9:42 am.

At Durham College (DC), we offer more than diplomas and graduate certificates.

Students who want to combine comprehensive knowledge with practical experience can take one of our honours bachelor’s degree programs. Offered in five critical and in-demand fields – Artificial Intelligence, Behavioural Science, Community Mental Health, Construction Management, and Paralegal – our degrees integrate theory with intensive applied learning, setting you up for success after you graduate.

Here are three reasons why a DC degree may be right for you.

High-quality programs taught by industry professionals
At DC, our degrees are developed collaboratively between expert faculty and Program Advisory Committees made up of subject matter experts. These leaders in their fields help us ensure that students gain the skills and knowledge employers need.

We remain on the cutting-edge of education by providing programs that respond to shifting industry needs. Our Honours Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence (HBAI) was developed in response to the impact of AI on global business processes, and prepares students with the skills, tools and techniques required to design AI solutions. Similarly, we introduced our Honours Bachelor of Construction Management (HBCM) to address the labour shortage in this crucial field and produce graduates who can make an immediate impact on residential and industrial construction projects.

Our faculty members combine top scholastic qualifications with professional experiences and strong ties to their industry.

Variety of pathway options
Whether you’ve just graduated high school or have previous post-secondary experience, our degree programs are open to you.

For example, if you hold a diploma in Child and Youth Care, Behavioural Science Technician, Developmental Services Worker or Social Service Worker, you can leverage your previous learning to pursue your degree in Behavioural Science with advanced entry into the program. In less time and for less money, you can earn a degree and dramatically increase your employment prospects following graduation.

Similar opportunities are available for our Community Mental Health degree, where students with a diploma in Child and Youth Care or Social Service Worker can enter directly into semester four of the program.

Theory and training, all in one program
By combining classroom theory and hands-on training, our degree programs will enhance your practical skills with theoretical knowledge and give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Much like our diploma programs, our degrees offer you the invaluable opportunity to get out from behind your textbooks and put your knowledge to work in the real world via field placements. Artificial Intelligence students can gain experience working in the data analytics or artificial intelligence industry, while Community Mental Health students spend 14 weeks utilizing their studies in a supervised setting.

In the Paralegal program, students spend time at the Access to Justice Hub, where they represent real people in real court cases. By doing so, they see how the skills and knowledge they acquire in class can be applied in the workplace, gaining an incredible amount of practical experience and knowledge.