Durham College leads the way with grand opening of PROTO and Electric Vehicle Lab

Whitby, Ont. – Durham College (DC) celebrated the grand opening of two new modern and collaborative learning spaces – PROTO and an Electrical Vehicle (EV) Lab – on Wednesday.

Together, these new state-of-the-art spaces span 9,060 sq. ft inside DC’s Whitby campus’ main building. PROTO provides clients, industry partners, student engineers and skilled trades faculty members and students an opportunity to collaborate and develop creative solutions and prototypes to address industry challenges. The EV Lab – which makes DC one of only a few Ontario colleges with a dedicated EV learning space – equips students with the specialized skills required in the evolving automotive industry.

PROTO and the EV Lab are propelling Durham College forward as a leader in innovation and transformative education,” said Don Lovisa, president, Durham College.  “The opening of these new spaces further demonstrates our commitment to driving change, generating big ideas and continuously adapting to meet the needs of our evolving industries.”

DC’s Whitby campus has developed exponentially over the past 30 years, becoming a skilled trades and automotive industry hub driven by student and faculty collaboration and partnerships with the local community.

“Our government is proud to support Durham College’s cutting-edge electric vehicle lab and PROTO, which will equip students with the hands-on experience and skills they need to secure in-demand jobs in the automotive industry,” said Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities. “Through collaboration with companies to solve real-world problems, students will be prepared for the workforce when they graduate, while at the same time strengthening our province’s position as a global leader in the manufacturing of electric vehicles and their batteries.”

With new spaces like PROTO and the EV Lab, students will gain unique opportunities through hands-on learning to enhance their expertise, strengthen their employability and help form meaningful connections with industry and community partners.

“Adapting and growing with industry demands and educating students just like me on the newest technologies and industry practices is what Durham College is known for,” said Electrical Techniques graduate and Canerector Scholar, Kathryn Fullerton, who spoke at the grand opening. “These new spaces will prepare students for the workforce and ensure they have the skills and knowledge they need to be successful.”

 

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ABOUT DURHAM COLLEGE
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need. 

 

MEDIA CONTACT
Carmen Doucette
Communications Officer
Durham College
Carmen.doucette@durhamcollege.ca


Barrett Centre Food Literacy Innovation Zone launched by Durham College and the Town of Ajax

Access to educational resources will help tackle food insecurity, inspire sustainable practices

Whitby, ON – Community education and engagement is the focus of a new food security and sustainability initiative launched by Durham College’s Barrett Centre for Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre), in partnership with the Town of Ajax through their new corporate giving program, the Ajax Partnership Fund.

The Barrett Centre’s new Food Literacy Innovation Zone aims to address challenges in food security and supply chains through the lens of urban agriculture by educating local community members about nutrition, gaining access to food and incorporating local and healthy food into their lifestyle.

“Food insecurity and supply chain constraints can lead to a lack of nutritious food that is accessible to the community, especially those who may be unable to locate a variety of food close to home,” said Brenna Bizley, partnership manager at the Barrett Centre. “Having educational materials in conjunction with the Barrett Centre Ajax Urban Farm will have an exponential impact on the community as people learn about the impact of food on their health and the importance of growing locally.”

The Zone, which is now under construction, will be based out of the Barrett Centre Ajax Urban Farm in North Ajax. At the farm, three garden models will be designed – a pollinator garden, home garden and balcony garden – and will act as a template to inspire community members to grow their own food at home. There will also be knowledge sharing through resources and materials to support and enhance food literacy via direct community engagements and the Barrett Centre Community Portal, coming in fall 2023.

“Ajax Council and the Town of Ajax are proud to support the Barrett Centre’s new Food Literacy Innovation Zone through the Ajax Partnership Fund. Thank you to Durham College for partnering with the Town to be able to offer these important resources to our community. This investment reinforces Ajax’s commitment to being a municipal leader in green and sustainable practices to ensure a healthier Ajax for all,” said Mayor Shaun Collier.

To recognize the farm’s launch and the partners who have supported the Barrett Centre projects to date, DC and the Town of Ajax will host an Open House event in October 2023, where community members will have the chance to explore the farm and Food Literacy Innovation Zone.

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About Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

About the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture
Durham College has established the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre) with the generous support of The Barrett Family Foundation.

The Barrett Centre’s vision is to become an internationally recognized hub of excellence in urban agricultural practices, research, education and training, to address some of society’s biggest challenges including food insecurity, access to safe and stable supplies of fresh food, and economic stability and regeneration of land for local food production.

About the Ajax Partnership Fund
The Ajax Partnership Fund (APF) is an opportunity for organizations and individuals to partner with the Town of Ajax on events, initiatives and projects of shared importance making a difference for the residents and wider community of Ajax. Applicants submit their proposal to the Town and are evaluated against a set of criteria to ensure the highest and best use of funding. To learn more about the APF please visit ajax.ca/PartnershipFund.

Media contact:
Jessica Rivers
Senior Communications Officer
Durham College
jessica.rivers@durhamcollege.ca


Durham College’s AI Hub leads the way with comprehensive support for local organizations introducing AI-powered technologies

$1.75-million Technology Access Centre grant will build AI talent, create new synergies 

Oshawa, ON – As more organizations incorporate artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in their daily operations, Durham College’s (DC) AI Hub is strengthening its reputation as an industry resource, increasing its research and development capacity, sharpening frameworks for delivery and growing its expert talent pool.

DC’s AI Hub is one of 16 recipients of the College and Community Innovation (CCI) program’s Technology Access Centres (TAC) grants, and will receive $350,000 per year over the next five years, creating new opportunities to support multi-sectoral organizations in Durham Region and beyond.

The CCI program is managed by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) in collaboration with the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).

As specialized centres of expertise, TACs offer timely innovation support to organizations from the private, public, health care or not-for-profit sectors in a college’s community. DC’s AI Hub TAC team will:

  • Enrich student training – Over the next five years, the AI Hub will hire: 15 students as members of the TAC delivery team; 100 students research assistants to support applied research and development projects; and 50 students with curricular work-integrated learning placements related to their field of study.
  • Support skills acquisition – The AI Hub’s training plan facilitates the development of in-demand technical, scientific, professional, leadership and entrepreneurial skills that will provide students on the TAC delivery team with the knowledge employers are looking for to address the skills gap for AI professionals.
  • Enhance service delivery plans – The launch of new services, including fee-for-service business and technical services and corporate AI training through DC’s Corporate Training Services, will further advance the Research & Development capacity the AI Hub is known for.

“The AI Hub team is fluent in the multi-sectorial business applications of AI technologies and the TAC grant will allow our researchers and industry partners to create new synergies that enable us to support clients from diverse sectors,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, dean, Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. “This funding will also create new opportunities for our students to gain valuable research experience and close the skills gap in this in-demand, evolving industry.”

Located in DC’s new Centre for Innovative Research, the AI Hub has a strong track record of engaging students in applied research and preparing them to fill the demand for qualified AI professionals. Over the last four years, 219 DC students have been trained through the AI Hub and 22 of these students were immediately hired by our partners.

Comprised of faculty researchers and students, the AI Hub TAC team will incorporate research outcomes into DC’s AI curriculum and invite industry partners into classrooms as guest speakers. These training opportunities will enable students to apply classroom learnings to real-world challenges and develop their technical, professional and soft skills, all of which provide competitive advantages as they enter the workforce.

DC has been consistently ranked by Research Infosource as one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges over the past eight years and won Applied Research and Innovation Excellence Bronze in the 2020 Colleges and Institutes Canada Awards of Excellence and the 2020 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Award for Innovation.

 To learn more about DC’s applied research centres, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/orsie.

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About Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

 Media contact:
Jessica Rivers
Senior Communications Officer
Durham College
jessica.rivers@durhamcollege.ca


Durham College partners with Johnson Controls to support next generation of skilled technology workers

Oshawa, ONDurham College (DC) is proud to partner with Johnson Controls to help meet the growing need for skilled technology workers in Ontario by providing Electromechanical Engineering Technology students with financial support as well as mentorship opportunities.

DC has been approved for a grant from Johnson Controls that will provide:

  • Annual entrance bursaries valued at $2,000 each to five students who demonstrate financial need and belong to an equity-deserving group entering their first semester of studies in the Electromechanical Engineering Technology program.
  • Opportunities for students to be mentored and connect on and off campus with Johnson Controls employees to gain additional insight into their future careers.
  • New equipment that will support DC’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology curriculum and the establishment of a new building automation lab.
  • Opportunities to share the benefits of this program with new prospective students.

 The college will receive $95,000 this year, plus $5,000 in equipment, with the total $100,000 commitment renewable for three more years.

 We are grateful for this partnership with Johnson Controls and its generous support to further strengthen our Electromechancial Engineering Technology program and its students, said Don Lovisa, Durham College president. With this gift, we will continue to lead the way by developing knowledgeable and experienced graduates who are able to step into rewarding technical careers that can make a difference in our communities.

 Local Johnson Controls employees – many of whom are graduates from DC’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology program – will work with the college to mentor students in this automation program. Through relationship building with industry professionals, students will gain insight into their future career paths.

“Not only are we investing in the next generation of workforce leaders, but the mentoring associated with this initiative reminds our employees why we do what we do,” said Julie Brandt, president of Building Solutions North America at Johnson Controls. “We’re looking at our future and through partnership with these colleges we’re all contributing to a better-supported trades industry.”

 DCs three-year Electromechanical Engineering Technology program combines electronics design, mechanical technologies and industrial automation. Students receive access to our world-class Integrated Manufacturing Centre, where they can engage with real-world controllers, robotics and more. This hands-on experience prepares them for successful careers as they gain the skills needed to design and troubleshoot automated systems used in various technical industries.

Since 2021, the Johnson Controls Community College Partnership Program has distributed $1 million annually across 10 community colleges in North America, focusing on vocational programs to inspire the next generation of workers. Grant recipients have the opportunity to receive a renewed grant for up to three years, creating long-term opportunities for program development. Each college has the option to receive the grants in full monetary value or to receive partial monetary funds along with technical equipment donated by Johnson Controls. Durham College is the only Canadian institution to receive funding this year and just the second in the program’s history.

First-year students beginning DC’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology program in September 2023 can apply for the Johnson Controls entrance bursary online.

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About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

About Johnson Controls
At Johnson Controls (NYSE:JCI), we transform the environments where people live, work, learn and play. As the global leader in smart, healthy and sustainable buildings, our mission is to reimagine the performance of buildings to serve people, places and the planet.

Building on a proud history of nearly 140 years of innovation, we deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive digital offering.

Today, with a global team of 100,000 experts in more than 150 countries, Johnson Controls offers the world`s largest portfolio of building technology and software as well as service solutions from some of the most trusted names in the industry.

Visit www.johnsoncontrols.com for more and follow @Johnson Controls on social platforms.

 Media Contacts
Carmen Doucette
Communications Officer
Durham College
carmen.doucette@durhamcollege.ca

Kari Pfisterer
Director, Public Relations and Media
Johnson Controls
Direct +1 414 217 1488
kari.b.pfisterer@jci.com 


Durham College expands access to real-world learning for students thanks to transformational gift

Oshawa, Ont. – Neha Kalarikkal credits her co-op placement for her professional growth and future plans. The Durham College (DC) student, in her third year of human resources, said the experience working in a professional HR setting exposed her to new areas of the field and helped her discover a keen interest in data analysis and allowed her to tailor her learning and job search to this niche.

Work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities like Neha’s take classroom learning into real-world settings. Co-ops, field placements and applied research positions enable students to develop the workplace skills and knowledge employers are looking for and improve their financial and career-related outcomes.

Hands-on, practical education is a cornerstone of college education in Ontario and co-operative education, a longer and more intensive immersion in the workplace, is an increasingly important mode of WIL at DC. Supporting these valuable opportunities and other aspects of experiential learning and workplace preparedness was the motivation behind a recent transformational $2 million gift from philanthropist Diane Blake.

The Diane Blake Student Success Initiative (DBSSI) will support the development of essential employability skills designed to help students launch their careers. It will accelerate DC’s goal of developing co-operative education components in all appropriate programs and increase the number of employer partners, so all eligible and interested students can participate in WIL opportunities. It will support the acquisition of technology to develop students’ soft skills related to job search and the workplace and create more research assistantship opportunities in DC’s applied research centres. And, students facing barriers to participation in WIL opportunities – such as costs related to transportation or accommodation, childcare, personal protective equipment or uniforms – will be eligible for financial support through the DBSSI.

“Durham College is committed to providing students with hands-on learning opportunities that complement their practical applied education, ensuring they have the skills, knowledge and competencies to be well-rounded graduates,” said Don Lovisa, president, Durham College. “Diane’s gift will make a difference in the lives of students who will have access to these incredible real-world experiences by improving our capacity to support and sustain these efforts.”

“Education is very important to me, and I am proud to support Work Integrated Learning at Durham College,” said Diane Blake. “The workplace is constantly evolving, as are employers’ expectations. New opportunities for students to participate in Work Integrated Learning will allow them to develop the necessary skills to meet employers’ expectations and be successful in their chosen careers. I am confident that students at Durham College will benefit greatly from this initiative.”

MEDIA CONTACT
Lindsay Holley, Lindsay.Holley@durhamcollege.ca
Communications and Marketing


Durham College celebrates student achievement at 2023 Spring Convocation

Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College (DC) recognized the outstanding academic achievements of the Class of 2023 at Spring Convocation, this week.

“Convocation is an incredible event that provides the opportunity to acknowledge the hard work and dedication demonstrated by our students over the course of their studies,” said Don Lovisa, president. “With dynamic hands-on learning and innovative programs led by industry experts, our graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead the way in their next chapter.”

A total of 2,604 graduates from the college’s eight faculties received their diplomas and graduate certificates, including the inaugural cohorts of the Behavioural Science Technician and Supply Chain Management – Global programs.

Guest speakers at the ceremonies included:

  • Kerri-Ann Williams, project management professional and professor and 2016 Biomedical Engineering Technology program graduate.
  • Stew MacDonald, president and chief revenue officer of OEG Sports & Entertainment Group, DC Alumni Leader, student mentor and 1981 graduate of the Sports Administration program.
  • Matt Hamilton, automotive industry professional and 2014 Chemical Engineering Technology program graduate.
  • Noor Ra’fat Ibrahim, television news on-air personality for Global News Toronto and 2017 graduate of the Journalism – Broadcast and Electronic Media program.

Over the course of the event, the college also recognized three deserving recipients with Alumni of Distinction awards based on their extraordinary contributions to society while achieving career success:

  • Christine Cunningham, Social Service Worker, Class of 2015
  • Stew MacDonald, Sports Administration, Class of 1981
  • Tre Sanderson, Culinary Management, Class of 2015

For more information about Spring Convocation, visit www.durhamcollege.ca/convocation.

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About Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media contact:
Lindsay Holley, Communications
lindsay.holley@durhamcollege.ca

 

 


Durham College names three new Alumni of Distinction

Oshawa, ON Durham College (DC) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2023 Alumni of Distinction award.

Christine Cunningham (Social Service Worker, 2015), Stew MacDonald (Sports Administration, 1981) and Tre Sanderson (Culinary Management, 2015) have all been selected this year and will be presented with their awards at Spring Convocation. It’s a meaningful milestone for all of the honourees, each of whom credits DC with playing a key role in their success.

“It was through Durham College that I was able to change my career and come into social service work,” said Cunningham, who runs a successful counselling private practice and is the founder and executive director of Perinatal Wellbeing Ontario (PWO). She also acts as a placement supervisor for Social Service Worker students from DC. I believe in the work I’m doing in this community and it’s wonderful to have more people learn about it because of winning the award.”

MacDonald is president and chief revenue officer with the Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League. Throughout his tenure, the team has won multiple Stanley Cup championships, hosted the NHL’s first-ever outdoor game and relocated to a new, state-of-the-art arena. Throughout his career, he has supported DC as an Alumni Leader, a participant in the DC Talks: Alumni Series, and a mentor to students.

“I am forever grateful to Durham College for accepting me as a student and for preparing me for my career,” he said. “I have always been very proud of being a Durham grad, so to be recognized by the College as an Alumnus of Distinction is a huge personal honour. The list of past recipients of this award is so impressive, and to be included in that group is incredibly special.”

Tre Sanderson made history last year as the first Black winner of Top Chef Canada. He has worked in some of Toronto’s best kitchens throughout his career and incorporates his diverse culinary influences into his creations. He returned to DC earlier this year as the guest chef for a special event at the campus restaurant, Bistro ’67, and shared his knowledge and experience with today’s students.

“This means a lot to me. Being recognized for my accomplishments since graduating from Durham with this awesome award is rewarding,” he said. “I’m very thankful.”

“We are proud to celebrate Christine, Stew and Tre who, throughout their remarkable careers, have epitomized what ‘leading the way’ is all about,” said Linda Flynn, associate vice president, Office of Development and Alumni Affairs. “These exceptional individuals show the power of a DC education, and they are an inspiration for our entire community.”

Learn more about this year’s nominees.

About Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media contact:
Jason Chamberlain
Communications Officer
Durham College
jason.chamberlain@durhamcollege.ca


New culinary scholarships help Black students lead the way in the food industry

Applications now open for the DoorDash #BlackFoodEnergy Culinary Scholarship

Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College (DC) is proud to partner with DoorDash to launch the DoorDash #BlackFoodEnergy Culinary Scholarship. Two scholarships – valued at $20,000 each, divided between two years – will support domestic and international Black students in DC’s Culinary Management diploma program, gain the skills and experience needed to pursue a career in the culinary field.

“We are grateful for this partnership with DoorDash and the generous supports for Black students in the culinary program,” said Kelly O’Brien, Associate Dean, Faculty of Hospitality & Horticultural Science, DC. “With these scholarships, we will continue to lead the way by developing skilled and experienced culinary students who will take on rewarding careers and further representation of Black individuals in the food industry.”

These scholarships are an extension of the DoorDash #Blackfoodenergy program that supports, amplifies and celebrates Black chefs and Black-owned/led restaurants across Canada.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Durham College to introduce the first #BlackFoodEnergy Culinary Scholarships, designed to give the next generation of chefs and entrepreneurs a head start on their path to success,” said Shilpa Arora, General Manager, DoorDash Canada. “#BlackFoodEnergy helps level the playing field for Black chefs and restaurant owners in our communities with increased access to support and opportunities, like the Culinary Scholarships.”

Applications are now open and close on Monday, July 31. Learn more about the DoorDash #BlackFoodEnergy Culinary Scholarship and how to apply, online.

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ABOUT DURHAM COLLEGE
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs.

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

About DoorDash Canada

DoorDash (NYSE: DASH) is a technology company that connects consumers with their favorite local businesses in more than 25 countries across the globe. Founded in 2013, DoorDash builds products and services to help businesses innovate, grow, and reach more customers. DoorDash is building infrastructure for local commerce, enabling merchants to thrive in the convenience economy, giving consumers access to more of their communities, and providing work that empowers. With DoorDash, there is a neighborhood of good in every order. For more information, visit doordash.com.

 

MEDIA CONTACTS
Carmen Doucette
Durham College
Carmen.doucette@durhamcollege.ca

Camille Cote-Begin
DoorDash Canada
cotebegin@veritasinc.com


First responders participate in first-and-only, GM-led EV training in Canada, hosted at Durham College

Event held in brand-new EV lab at DC’s Whitby campus

Whitby, ON – Durham College (DC) welcomed more than 540 participants to its new, leading-edge EV lab for an exclusive two-day battery electric vehicle (EV) training event hosted by General Motors (GM). Four half-day sessions were held on May 24 and 25 to provide hands-on training to first responders to learn how to respond to emergency situations involving EVs.

Participants included first responders and community partners, faculty members and 30 students from DC’s Firefighter – Pre-Service Education and Training program. The opportunity provided students the chance to network with industry experts as well as gain valuable experience in a growing field.

“Our primary goal is to provide key information directly to first and second responders,” said Joe McLaine, GM global product safety and systems engineer, and leader of the training effort. “This training offers unique material and hands-on experiences that can help increase responders’ awareness of procedures to help maintain safety while interacting with EVs during the performance of their duties.” 

The event was hosted in DC’s brand-new EV Lab – a state-of-the-art facility uniquely designed in a multi-purpose, modular format that allows students to gain hands-on experience with EVs and their electrical and computer programming components. The lab features advanced equipment that enables DC to offer more in-depth training on the battery aspect of EVs – including their handling, testing and rebuilding – an area the college anticipates will see a growth in industry demands as the number of EVs increase.

“As more Canadians make the switch to electric vehicles, Durham College is proud to be one of only a few Ontario colleges with a dedicated EV Lab that will lead the way for future automotive professionals to effectively respond to evolving industry needs,” said Don Lovisa, president, DC. “We’re pleased to host General Motors for this unique training and explore further opportunities to leverage our leading-edge facilities.”

About Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

Media contact:
Jessica Rivers
Senior Communications Officer
Durham College
jessica.rivers@durhamcollege.ca


After over 15 years of Leading the Way, Durham College President Don Lovisa Announces Plan to Step Down by March 2024

Oshawa, Ont. – For over 15 years, President Don Lovisa has been at the helm of Durham College. Today he announced to employees at a Town Hall meeting, that he will not renew his contract after March 2024.

Under Lovisa’s leadership, Durham College (DC) has thrived, evidenced by an impressive track record of success focused on students, employees and the community.

“As a leader, Don embodies Durham College’s mission: Together, we’re leading the way,” said Gary Rose, Chair of the Board of Governors. “His vision for the college has truly come to life through his innovative, forward-looking and collaborative approach. DC has grown exponentially throughout his tenure. He has not only met challenges with tenacity but welcomed opportunities that have positioned DC as a leader in post-secondary education and an invaluable asset in the community.”

Since Lovisa’s presidency began in 2008, DC has experienced significant enrolment growth, supported by the introduction of a number of new leading-edge programs driven by community and industry needs, including five new honours bachelor’s degrees.

On campus, Lovisa spearheaded over $300 million in capital investment projects focused on expansion and modernization of DC’s working and learning spaces, including the Student Services Building, Centre for Collaborative Education, Energy and Innovation Centre and the expansion of the Whitby Campus, including the Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food and the Centre for Organic Regeneration. Most recently, the Centre for Innovation and Research opened, which houses four of DC’s six applied research centres, all of which have opened during Lovisa’s time as president.

DC’s collaborative, innovative and hard-working culture is a testament to Lovisa’s energy, passion and priorities. It has led to recognition as one of the Greater Toronto Top Employers, Greenest Employer and one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges, securing DC’s reputation locally, nationally and internationally as a college of choice, a community partner and a leader.

Lovisa is a lifelong advocate for education, lending his voice and experience to several areas, including improved training in skilled trades and equity in international education. In addition, he has been Chair of Colleges Ontario and a member of the CICan Board of Directors, furthering DC’s presence in the education sector.

“It has been an honour and a pleasure to serve as president of Durham College and work alongside our talented leadership team, employees, the Board of Governors and industry and community partners. Being part of an organization that makes such positive and significant changes that impact our students and our community has been the highlight of my career,” said Lovisa. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together and look forward to watching DC continue to lead the way in the future.”

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About Durham College
With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 12,000 full-time post-secondary and apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including five honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs.

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

MEDIA CONTACT
Lindsay Holley
Communications and Marketing
lindsay.holley@durhamcollege.ca