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Durham College and University of the Highlands and Islands launch renewable energy training partnership

Durham College (DC) and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) are launching a joint online Renewable Energy Project Management program this fall, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals as the renewable energy sector continues to expand.

The first initiative to emerge from a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed during a recent DC visit to UHI House in Inverness, the program will combine expertise from both institutions to help learners develop the project management knowledge and sector awareness needed to advance renewable energy projects.

“Partnering with UHI allows us to bring global expertise directly to learners in the renewable energy sector. There is an immediate need for training that equips professionals with the expertise required to drive sustainable energy projects forward, and this collaboration helps us meet that need,” says Robin Young, Managing Director, Business and Workforce Development, Corporate Training Services at DC.

The MOU builds on discussions between the two institutions over the past several months, with leaders exploring opportunities to collaborate on programs that address evolving industry needs.

During the visit, representatives from both institutions also met with academic and institutional leaders to explore broader opportunities for collaboration in training, education and industry engagement.

“UHI is committed to working with partners around the world to develop the skills needed for the energy transition. Our approach is based on sharing our experience while learning from others working in similar contexts internationally, helping to support new and innovative approaches to renewable energy development. This partnership with Durham College brings together international expertise to create learning opportunities that will help professionals plan and deliver renewable energy projects while supporting workforce development in the regions we serve here in the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Perthshire of Scotland and beyond,” added Vicki Nairn, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of the Highlands and Islands.

For DC, the agreement reflects a continued focus on developing international partnerships that connect industry, training, and education. Through engagement with global partners, the college will expand opportunities for learners while advancing workforce development in emerging sectors.

Future innovators shine at FIRST Robotics Competition hosted by Durham College

Hundreds of high school students showcased their engineering skills and competitive spirit at the 2026 FIRST Robotics Competition, hosted and sponsored by Durham College (DC).

A total of 28 teams and over 1,000 students, mentors, parents and supporters from across Ontario gathered at DC on March 14 and 15 for the district competition, where groups competed for a chance to advance to the provincial championships.

The event is part of the global FIRST Robotics Competition program, which challenges students in Grades 9 to 12 to design, build and program industrial-sized robots capable of completing complex tasks in fast-paced matches. Working alongside mentors, participants apply engineering, programming and teamwork skills to compete on a themed field as part of a three-team alliance.

This year’s season explored how discoveries from the past can inspire future innovation. Teams were invited to use modern engineering and robotics to reimagine the tools and technologies of earlier civilizations while solving dynamic challenges on the competition field.

In the weeks leading up to the event, participants used STEM knowledge and problem-solving skills to design, build and program 140-pound robots capable of navigating the field and completing game objectives. Throughout the weekend, alliances of three teams worked together to score points and outmaneuver their opponents in a series of high-energy matches.

“Events like the FIRST Robotics Competition highlight the creativity, collaboration and determination that students bring to engineering and technology,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “At DC, we are proud to welcome these young innovators as they test their ideas, work together and begin to see how their abilities can lead to meaningful careers in STEM and the skilled trades.”

After two days of intense competition, the winning alliance was Bolton’s Alpha Dogs (alliance captains) with their partners Mississauga’s Theory6, and Kincardine’s Kinetic Knights.

Congratulations to all participating teams for their ingenuity and perseverance throughout the weekend. By tackling engineering challenges and collaborating under pressure, these students are developing the curiosity, resilience and technical expertise that will help shape the future of science, technology and innovation. Hosting this competition reflects DC’s commitment to creating meaningful connections between the community and its programs in technology, engineering and applied trades.

New Durham College research supports children’s emotional development in the early years

Durham College (DC) has received nearly $360,000 in federal grant funding to lead a new research initiative that will support early childhood educators in helping preschool children build strong social and emotional skills during their most formative years.

The project – Transforming Early Years Education with Simulations: Building Teacher Efficacy to Support Children’s Social-Emotional Growth – is designed to develop conversational and immersive mixed-reality training simulations that allow educators to practice responding to real-life situations they encounter in early learning environments before they face them with children and families.

The initiative is led by Social Impact Hub Project Lead and faculty member in the Faculty of Social and Community Services, Corrine McCormick-Brighton, and brings together expertise from DC’s Mixed-Reality Capture (MRC) Studio and Ontario Tech University as well as community partners from the Regional Municipality of Durham Children’s Developmental and Behavioral Supports, Grandview Kids, and Simulation Canada. It is funded by the College and Community Social Innovation Fund through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

The project is rooted in local data showing ongoing challenges in children’s social and emotional well-being across the Durham Region. These early experiences, including how children manage emotions, focus attention and interact with others, play a significant role in shaping long-term academic success, health, and well-being. By focusing on early intervention, the project supports an in-demand workforce while helping educators feel more confident and prepared in their roles.

“Early childhood educators play a critical role in shaping children’s social and emotional development during some of the most important years of life,” said McCormick-Brighton. “By using mixed-reality simulations based on real early learning and child care classroom experiences, this project creates opportunities for educators to practice responding to complex situations in a safe and supportive environment. Our aim is to strengthen educator confidence and ultimately support better outcomes for young children.”

Developed with essential expertise from the MRC Studio, the simulations reflect real scenarios drawn from community experience and regional needs. Aligned with the MRC Studio’s commitment to exploring cutting-edge technologies and creating immersive applications that power education and training, the initiative demonstrates how extended reality can move learning beyond passive instruction to training through doing. Educators will engage in realistic scenarios that allow them to practice, reflect, and strengthen their approach in a safe, supportive environment.

“Simulation is designed to meet the training needs of a diverse range of users,” said Kelly Bradstock, Project Partner, Child Care and Early Years Division. “For newer educators or students, the simulation may offer more prompts and guidance to help users meet the learning objectives. For more experienced ECE’s, the simulation can provide more complex situations to provide a richer learning opportunity. With the right design, the learning experience is unique to each user.”

While the research is informed by local priorities, its impact is expected to extend beyond Durham Region. The project will help inform early childhood education programs at the college level and contribute insights that can be shared with early learning communities across Canada.

In keeping with DC’s Social Impact Hub’s mandate to advance community driven applied research, this project will strengthen social-emotional learning in the early years, fostering positive outcomes for children and families, while helping to build more resilient, inclusive, and supportive early learning environments. 

DC paralegal student takes her place in court

When Robin Simion enrolled in Durham College’s (DC) Paralegal – Honours Bachelor Degree program, she was drawn by something she hadn’t seen before, a degree offered through a college. She did not yet know that her legal education would unfold, quite literally, inside a working courthouse.

In her Provincial Offences course, Robin’s professor, Dalton Burger, moved the classroom from campus to Courtroom 105 at the Provincial Offences Courthouse. There, students observed live hearings, analyzed case law, and applied legal theory to proceedings in real time.

“Learning in the courtroom provides so much real-life experience that a student just wouldn’t take away from classroom-only learning,” says Simion. “It gives us real examples of how a trial should run, how prosecutors interact with court staff and members of the public, and so much more.”

“By having the class at the courthouse, students are able to observe hearings and then discuss them in our classroom, gaining a much deeper understanding of our legal system,” adds Burger.

The course culminated in a mock trial held inside the actual courtroom. Burger, who also serves as a deputy judge, presided as students delivered opening statements, examined and cross-examined witnesses, and presented closing arguments. High school students were invited to observe, creating an audience that made the exercise feel authentic.

“Having the ability to prepare and present the mock trial, especially in front of high school students, was nerve-wracking, but helped to inspire so much confidence,” notes Simion.

Simion’s achievement in the course earned her the Durham College Provincial Offences Award. Burger’s networks in the legal community opened another door. Encouraged by his mentorship, Simion applied for a paid summer position at the very Prosecution’s Office where her class had been held and was successful.

That summer, she gained practical legal experience alongside practicing prosecutors. She reviewed files, observed proceedings, and in her first appearance in court in a professional capacity, eventually made submissions to a Justice of the Peace on her own.

“My first time making a submission to a Justice of the Peace was both intimidating and very validating,” says Simion. “What really made the experience positive was the support of the prosecutors. They all consistently encouraged me and were very generous with their time and knowledge.”

Simion credits Burger not only with preparing her for the role, but with helping her believe she could pursue it. “Professor Burger helped me realize I could have a future in this profession,” says Simion. “His passion for the program and teaching made a world of difference.”

That mentorship reflects a broader commitment at DC, connecting students with the communities and professional networks they will one day serve. The Honours Bachelor Paralegal program is designed to develop graduates who are ready to contribute to access to justice in Ontario, a field where qualified paralegals are increasingly in demand.

“I did some outside research and learned about the growing scope of practice for paralegals in Ontario and the current need for more practicing paralegals,” says Simion. “The program presents a very practical approach, with a focus on legal procedures and advocacy strategies.”

DC’s Paralegal – Honours Bachelor Degree program prepares graduates to become licensed paralegals in Ontario, with pathways into areas including provincial offences prosecution, tribunal advocacy, and more. Graduates are equipped to enter a profession that plays a meaningful role in making the legal system more accessible to all Ontarians.

Alumni from DC’s first class of Business Administration students reconnect for 55-year reunion

In 1967, Durham College (DC) had just opened its doors and a brand-new program, Business Administration – Information Systems, was preparing students for careers in an emerging field.

This fall, members of that pioneering class returned to DC to celebrate their 55-year reunion, reconnect and reminisce how much the college has grown over the past five decades. The alumni met at Bistro ’67, DC’s on-campus teaching restaurant – a long way from the limited vending machine options the alumni enjoyed as students.

“When we’re together it’s just like we’re sitting in the classroom again,” said Adrian de Laat, who attended the event organized by Beth Sheyan and Gary Dionne. “Fifty years disappears and we just pick up right where we left off. We’re all proud to be DC graduates. I meet fellow alumni everywhere I go and I say ‘I’m student number 23.’”

De Laat and his friends have been connected for the majority of their lives, first meeting during their first semester.

“At the time I had the option to complete Grade 13,” explained de Laat. “But I had heard Durham College was opening up close to home and I was eager to start learning something I could apply to my future.”

After completing his credential, de Laat enjoyed a long career in information systems. Working at GMAC – a subsidiary of General Motors (GM) – right out of college, he set up their computer rooms, including the equipment, procedures, and practices. He was then hired on as a Programmer at GM in 1972. During his time at GM, he was promoted to progressively senior roles and then continued to work as a Senior Security Systems Analyst at Electronic Data Systems until retiring in 2005.

Looking back, de Laat credits DC’s industry-informed education for helping prepare him and his classmates for long, successful careers. “The faculty truly cared and treated us like adults,” said de Laat. “I remember Jim Walker took time to teach us how to write our resumes and do mock interviews to ensure we were prepared.”

They also reflected on how much the college has grown since its first year, noting the campus was made up of 16 portable classrooms. Lunch options consisted of four vending machines and a food truck operated by Tony’s Refreshment Services. All extra-curricular activities were organized by the Students Council, including the memorable Winter Carnival. DC’s first building was erected in 1970, during the final year of their program, and Alice Cooper came to play in the student lounge.

This reunion is not the first time the group has met up over the years. They began meeting in 2007 and have since met a total of five times. The driving force behind the ongoing reunions was their friend and classmate Rob Stewart who passed away in 2025. To honour their friend and celebrate his deep appreciation for DC, Stewart’s classmates made donations to the college, which supported the Faculty of Business and Information Technology’s annual Business Conference.

“Hearing stories about how our graduates’ time at Durham College shaped their lives always brings me joy,” said Sally Hillis, Senior Alumni Development Officer, Advancement and Alumni Relations. “I’m so thankful for people like Rob Stewart who inspire DC pride and life-long connection.”

If you’re a DC graduate celebrating a reunion, let us know. Contact the Office of Advancement and Alumni Relations at alumni@durhamcollege.ca.

Building confident, career-ready dental office administration graduates

Behind every successful dental practice is a skilled administrative professional who keeps appointments running smoothly, supports patients, and manages complex insurance processes with confidence. Durham College’s Dental Office Administration program prepares graduates to step into these roles ready to contribute from day one.

For Dental Office Administration student Shabaana Mohamed, the first time she was asked to log in to Dentrix, one of the most widely used dental practice management software systems in Canada, during her field placement could have been intimidating. Instead, it was affirming. As she sat down at the front desk and entered her credentials, she realized she already knew exactly what to do. “Because we had worked with Dentrix in class, I felt confident performing daily administrative tasks right away,” she says. “It made the classroom learning real and I felt well-prepared for my role in a dental office.”

The program’s hands-on approach is a key differentiator. Students work with industry-standard dental office software, including Dentrix and AbelDent, applying it to authentic tasks such as scheduling appointments, managing patient accounts, coordinating billing, and submitting insurance claims. By using these tools in realistic scenarios, students build skills and adaptability that employers value.

Insurance administration is another area where students gain expertise. Real-world case studies teach them to interpret benefit plans, manage predeterminations and claims, resolve rejections, and communicate coverage information clearly and ethically to patients. “Understanding insurance processes gave me confidence to support both patients and the clinic efficiently,” says Nicole Brouillard, DOFA graduate.

Field placements are structured to support progressive learning. Early placements focus on observation and guided reflection, while later placements provide hands-on responsibility in the same practice whenever possible. This continuity allows students to deepen skills, build professional relationships, and transition seamlessly into the workforce.

Beyond technical skills, the program emphasizes professionalism, communication, and resilience. Small cohorts ensure individualized support, and students receive enhanced Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) training, preparing them to contribute safely and effectively in clinical environments.

“Our Dental Office Administration students are trained to manage infection control procedures such as cleaning, disinfecting and sterilization to help clinics remain compliant with regulatory standards,” says Sara Gordon, dental programs professor. “They also develop a clear understanding of instrument reprocessing and documentation requirements, which strengthens patient safety and allows them to step in and support the clinical team when needed.”

Graduates leave the program ready to make an immediate impact in dental offices, specialty clinics, and related health-care settings. As Mohamed notes, “The combination of classroom learning, software training, and field experience gave me the foundation to succeed in my placement and step into my career with confidence.”

Discover how the Dental Office Administration program can prepare you to launch your career with confidence.

Durham College joins Canada-ASEAN Business Council Nuclear Energy Working Group

Durham College (DC) has joined the Canada-ASEAN Business Council (CABC) Nuclear Energy Working Group, creating new opportunities to help shape the future of global energy workforce development.

Through this new partnership, DC will contribute to critical conversations about nuclear energy, clean power, and the upskilling and reskilling required to support a rapidly evolving global energy sector. The collaboration underscores DC’s role as a leader in applied, industry-aligned education and reinforces its commitment to supporting innovation, sustainability and economic growth at home and abroad.

“Joining the CABC Nuclear Energy Working Group reflects Durham College’s commitment to supporting Canada’s leadership in clean energy and workforce development,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “This partnership gives us the opportunity to contribute our expertise on a global stage, strengthen international relationships, and help shape the skills and talent strategies that will power the future of energy.”

The CABC, Canada’s only entity officially associated with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), works to strengthen trade and investment between Canada and Southeast Asia. As a member of the Nuclear Energy Working Group, DC will engage in knowledge sharing, partnership development and sector-specific initiatives that support workforce readiness in highly regulated, safety-critical industries.

DC’s Corporate Training Services (CTS) will lead the college’s involvement, with a primary focus on workforce development for the energy sector. This includes customized training solutions for industry and government partners, as well as potential research and innovation collaborations through the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

“We are pleased to welcome Durham College as a member of our Nuclear Energy Working Group. Durham College’s applied expertise in nuclear energy, green technologies, and industry-aligned training brings a practical, workforce-focused perspective that is essential as Southeast Asian countries advance their clean energy ambitions,” said Wayne Farmer, CABC President. “Their strengths in capacity building and curriculum development will add meaningful value to the Working Group’s efforts to support nuclear deployment and long-term energy transition across the region.”

For students, the long-term impact could include expanded partnerships, new co-op and work placement opportunities, and more industry-focused applied research projects. Insights gained through the working group will also help inform future programming and curriculum development, ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills needed in a growing sector that continues to see significant investment worldwide.

Durham College’s MRC Studio receives nearly $2 million in funding to launch immersive research stage

A state-of-the-art immersive research stage will be built at Durham College’s (DC) Mixed Reality Capture (MRC) Studio, thanks to a $1.886 million combined federal and provincial investment. The funding comes equally from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) – College Fund and the Ontario Research Fund (ORF) and will help further solidify DC’s position as a regional leader in immersive technologies, virtual production, and motion capture.

The immersive research stage will enable applied research that blends physical and virtual worlds, allowing researchers to observe, test, and measure human behaviour in highly realistic, interactive environments. Using advanced extended reality (XR) technologies, including real-time game engines and head-mounted displays, the specialized stage will support controlled experimentation in areas such as training simulations, interactive audiences and human-centred technology development.

“This funding allows us to expand applied immersive research that directly benefits students and industry,” says Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research. “By working with industry-standard immersive technologies, students gain skills employers are looking for, while our partners gain a trusted environment to innovate, test, and scale new products and services.”

The new stage will support applied research projects led by faculty and students in collaboration with industry clients. Through partnerships managed by the MRC Studio, it will provide advanced capabilities in virtual production, motion capture, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) to develop real-world solutions for digital entertainment, training, emergency response, and other high compliance environments. Located adjacent to DC’s Centre for Innovation and Research, the stage will integrate with the college’s other research centres, including the AI Hub, Cybersecurity Innovation Centre, and Social Impact Hub for interdisciplinary projects. The stage is expected to be operational by Fall 2027.

The expansion builds on the MRC Studio’s strong track record of research projects with dozens of industry partners. Over the next five years, the new facility is expected to support 40 partnerships, develop more than 30 innovative tools and workflows, and create at least 20 new products, generating new jobs, market opportunities and competitive advantages for industry clients. It will also provide hands-on training in immersive technologies to over 150 students, up to 60 industry professionals, and 15 post-secondary researchers, helping address critical skills shortages in the sector.

“This research stage will enable industry partners to explore and adopt immersive technologies through hands-on development of training solutions, interactive entertainment, and next-generation content,” says Jason Hunter, Senior Manager, MRC Studio. “At the same time, it equips students with the in-demand skills needed for careers in this rapidly evolving field.”

“The expansion of Durham College’s Mixed Reality Capture Studio is great news for our region. It gives students, researchers and local businesses access to cutting-edge tools that are transforming the interactive digital media landscape while strengthening our talent pipeline. As a leading film and digital media hub, Durham is well positioned to help more companies innovate and bring new ideas to life,” says John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham.

The project reinforces DC’s commitment to applied research excellence, hands-on student learning, and innovation partnerships that benefit industry and communities across the region.

Learn more about the MRC Studio and Durham College’s applied research initiatives.

Top five reasons to attend Spring Open House at Durham College

Choosing the right college is a big decision. Spring Open House is your chance to get it right.

No matter where you are in your planning – whether you have already applied, are weighing your options, or are just starting to explore – Spring Open House is your opportunity to imagine yourself at DC. Tour our campuses, meet faculty members, and explore more than 145 career-focused programs, all in one visit.

Spring Open House takes place Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with an optional special session beginning at 9:30 a.m. for those interested in DC's degree programs.

Here are five reasons you won't want to miss it.

  • 1. Explore campuses and learning spaces

    Spring Open House gives you the chance to explore DC's Oshawa and Whitby campuses and see where students learn every day.

    As you explore our campuses, you can check out key spaces such as classrooms and specialized learning labs, student gathering areas, libraries and study spaces, recreation and wellness facilities, and campus residences. Along the way, you’ll get a feel for the environment, resources and community that support student life at DC.

  • 2. Meet the people behind the programs

    Open House is one of the best opportunities to connect with the faculty and employees who support students throughout their journey.

    Speak with program experts to learn about DC's programs and discover how learning aligns with the needs of today's employers. You’ll also have a chance to ask questions about admissions, program pathways, and the career opportunities available after graduation.

  • 3. Learn about student supports and financial aid

    Starting college is exciting, and having the right support makes all the difference. At Spring Open House, you can learn about the many services designed to help you succeed academically and personally.

    This includes financial aid options, scholarships, and bursaries. DC offers more than $5 million in scholarships, bursaries and awards to help students pursue their education.

    You can also check out our services that support student success, including counselling and wellness programs, tutoring, accessibility and academic supports, and career planning.

  • 4. Experience campus life at DC

    Beyond the classroom, Open House gives you a taste of what it is like to be part of the DC community.

    You can learn about student clubs, athletics, residence and the many ways to get involved on campus. Conversations with current students and time spent exploring campus offer an authentic look at daily life at DC and the supportive community that helps learners thrive.

  • 5. Discover DC degrees and pathways

    Kick off your visit with Discover DC Degrees, an exclusive information session focused on the college's growing portfolio of degree programs and pathways.

    The session begins at 9:30 a.m. and is an opportunity to learn how DC degrees prepare graduates for in-demand careers and graduate studies. You’ll hear more about admissions requirements, program options, and how pathways and transfer credits can help save time and money.

    From 10 to 11 a.m., you can connect one-on-one with program experts and Transfer and Pathways advisors for personalized guidance.

    If you are interested in the session, simply select Discover DC Degrees when completing your Open House registration.

Spring Open House is also a great time to apply to Durham College. Applications submitted during the event will have the $150 application fee waived, and admissions staff will be available to answer questions and guide you through the process.

Learn more and register for Spring Open House. We hope to see you there!

Celebrating women’s achievements: Meet inspiring DC students, employees and alumni making an impact

As we approach International Women’s Day, Durham College is proud to recognize and applaud the incredible achievements of women.