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From classrooms to careers: How Durham College is preparing students for an AI-driven workforce

In Durham College (DC) classrooms, students aren’t just learning course concepts — they’re building the skills that employers consider essential in today’s evolving workforce.

“We’re focused on preparing students for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow,” says Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping how people learn and work, and Durham College is responding with intention – thoughtfully embedding emerging technologies into hands-on learning experiences that help our graduates develop the adaptability, creativity, and leadership skills they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world.”

This approach is evident across many DC programs, where students interact with AI tools trained on their course materials, using them to test ideas, refine research questions, and make informed decisions. The goal isn’t simply to get answers faster, but to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and strategic technology skills — the very talents employers are looking for among graduates.

DC was an early adopter of AI, embracing it as a teaching and learning tool and taking a future-focused approach that equips both faculty and students with the knowledge and expertise to succeed in a technology-driven world.

For Jonathan Carrigan, a professor in the Faculty of Business and Information Technology, this evolution began with his own curiosity in 2023. “One week after ChatGPT exploded onto the scene, I experimented over the Christmas break and realized it would change everything,” he recalls. These early explorations led to a professional development session with 60 faculty members and eventually to a broader role supporting AI adoption across the college.

In Carrigan’s classrooms, AI is intentionally embedded to enhance student learning, not replace it. He creates a custom generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) for every course – an AI model trained on course materials to serve as 24/7 learning support. He also embeds AI literacy training into lessons, teaching students how to prompt effectively, evaluate outputs, and apply practices responsibly, skills they can carry into any professional setting.

“Artificial intelligence is like playing a guitar,” Carrigan explains. “Anyone can strum it, but it won’t make music unless you learn how to play it well.”

This philosophy is shaping the DC experience and students are seeing the impact. Sarah Adesuyi, a second-year Marketing – Business student, says AI has helped her approach assignments differently. “Professor Carrigan’s teaching methods feel balanced and realistic,” she says. “He shows us when AI can add value to enhance our analysis and understand why certain decisions work,” she says.

Fellow student, Ayah Akel, says learning to build custom GPTs has changed how she approaches learning altogether. “AI has become a thinking partner,” she explains. “I now feel confident using it strategically in class and eventually my future career.”

Alongside his teaching, Carrigan works as an AI consultant in DC’s Centre for Teaching and Learning (CTL), where he helps faculty members explore the technology in ways that align with their disciplines and student needs.

His current focus is extending beyond classroom tools, exploring how AI is reshaping the ways organizations operate, what employers value, and the skills graduates need to thrive. With job postings, hiring practices, and workplace expectations evolving faster than most curricula can keep up, Carrigan is examining what this means for program design, course development, and the competencies students will need to succeed.

By integrating AI resources and supporting faculty innovation, DC is equipping graduates with more than technical know-how — they leave with the confidence and skills to contribute in an AI-integrated economy.

Students can plan for success at Pathways to Further Education Fair

The Pathways to Further Education Fair is a can’t miss opportunity for Durham College (DC) students who are mapping out their academic future.

DC’s numerous partnerships and articulation agreements with post-secondary institutions across Ontario, Canada and the world allow our graduates to leverage the credits they’ve earned towards programs at other schools.

Students are invited to attend the Pathways to Further Education Fair on Tuesday, February 10 at the Whitby Campus and Wednesday, February 11 at the Oshawa Campus to connect with many of those schools and get a head start on their next credential. Registration is now open.

It’s a chance to explore all of your future opportunities in one place, according to Alexandra Bursey, Manager, Transfer Services.

“This event brings over 16 institutions right to your fingertips,” she said. “Whether you’re curious about what’s next or already have an institution in mind, nothing beats speaking directly with representatives who can answer your questions on the spot. You might even discover an opportunity you didn’t know existed.”

For students who want to get the most out of their post-secondary program, there are plenty of advantages to combining a college and university education, including cost-effectiveness.

Maddie Gulenchyn, Client Support and Engagement Representative on the Transfer Services team, discovered those advantages for herself. Years after graduating from DC in 2019, she decided to further her education at Ontario Tech University and work towards an Honours Bachelors of Arts in Educational Studies. With her DC credits, she was able to enter the third year of a four-year program.

“It’s never too late, or too early, to figure out your ultimate goal, and work towards it,” said Gulenchyn. “Pathways allow students to see what is possible for them, and gives them the opportunity to get their previous education recognized.”

DC students can learn more about their pathway options online. A list of institutions that will be attending the fair is also available.

“Whether you want to continue your journey at DC or explore other institutions, adding an extra credential can set you apart in the job market,” said Bursey. “Our pathways make it easier to build on what you’ve already achieved. Your future deserves options!”

DC welcomes winter semester with energy and excitement on campus

This winter, more than 2,000 new students are beginning their Durham College (DC) journey in programs that start in January to prepare for careers in a wide range of industries, including business, IT, skilled trades, science and technology, and more.

Together, with thousands of returning students, they have the opportunity to participate in a variety of orientation and academic events, to help them get settled, make connections and feel confident navigating college life.

“Our winter welcome is about more than just orientation — it’s about creating a sense of belonging from day one,” says Lucy Romao Vandepol, Director, Student and Career Development. “Whether students are new to DC or returning to continue their studies, we want them to feel supported, engaged, and excited about the opportunities ahead.”

For students who are new to the country, connecting with the campus community is especially important. To support their transition to Canada, the International Education Office and Durham College Student Association are hosting a variety of activities, including a campus scavenger hunt, winter wellness workshop, and student-led networking event, to help international students feel at home at DC.

Johannes Ochensthaler, an international student from Munich, Germany, is starting the Marketing – Business Administration program this semester and looks forward to experiencing Canadian culture and adjusting to all the snow he has seen so far.

This intake also offers a number of future-focused programs designed specifically to meet the needs of in-demand industries, including:

With a focus on practical learning and real-world experience, these programs help students gain the necessary skills for rewarding careers in today’s rapidly evolving workforce.

It’s not too late to be a DC student and start classes in January – space remains available in select programs, offering flexible pathways to begin or continue post-secondary studies. We are here to help you get started. View a full list of programs online and learn more about how to become a student in a day.

Durham College seeking to honour exceptional graduates with 2026 Alumni of Distinction Award

From leading powerful local initiatives to making a global impact, more than 120,000 Durham College (DC) graduates are finding success in their careers and enriching their communities.

Each year, DC is proud to recognize the accomplishments of some of its most outstanding graduates through the Alumni of Distinction Award and nominations for the 2026 award are now open. Recipients are chosen based on their professional, community and personal accomplishments, the scope of their impact, as well as their contributions to the advancement of DC.

“Our alumni are powerful ambassadors for Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, DC. “We are incredibly proud of the impact our alumni are having around the world and the Alumni of Distinction Awards allow us to celebrate their remarkable contributions while reminding our students what is possible.”

The more than 120 alumni honoured have come from a wide range of fields and include respected medical practitioners to accomplished broadcasters and leaders in sport.

The 2025 Alumni of Distinction included Jeremy Burns and Aaron Dale, co-founders of the Military Veterans Wellness Program; Chris Cull, a mental health advocate, motivational speaker, and filmmaker; Shawn Small, founder and president of RISE Integrated Sports + Entertainment; and Paula Sojo, co-founder of Ostome Fashion.

The nomination form is available online at durhamcollege.ca/alumniofdistinction and must be submitted to alumni@durhamcollege.ca before 5 p.m. on Friday, March 6. As one of the college’s highest honours, the 2026 award recipients will be presented at DC’s Spring Convocation in June.

 

A Year in Review: 2025 at Durham College

Durham College (DC) marked another year of growth, achievement, and community impact in 2025. From launching bold new programs and strengthening industry partnerships, to celebrating a record-breaking Convocation and hosting thousands of visitors on campus, our students and employees continued to shine. Across athletics, applied research, and community initiatives, DC remained a place where talent is nurtured, curiosity is encouraged, and careers are launched.

Explore some of the highlights that made 2025 a year to remember.

News

Durham College unveiled a new Strategic Vision that will guide the institution’s priorities and decision-making for the years ahead, strengthening our focus on students, employees and community impact.

The Minister of Colleges and Universities Nolan Quinn visited DC to experience the hands-on learning of our in-demand culinary and hospitality programs alongside local MPPs.

A new bursary established by The Joyce Family Foundation is expanding access to preparatory programs at DC and helping remove financial barriers for learners.

At our state-of-the-art Ontario Power Generation Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology, we welcomed Ajax Fire and Emergency Services for a unique, hands-on emergency elevator rescue training session.

A $75 million provincial investment in post-secondary institutions will expand construction and planning programs across Ontario, ensuring DC will play a central role in strengthening the province’s workforce.

Thousands of future students and supporters visited campus at our Open Houses in Spring and Fall as well as our Program Information Nights, giving learners and families the chance to explore programs, meet employees and experience life at DC.

The annual Mature Student Event showcased why our supportive services and flexible delivery models make DC the perfect place to help returning students strengthen their professional skills.

We highlighted student ingenuity across engineering and sustainability challenges at the DC Innovation Showcase, where learners presented creative projects and connected with industry partners.

There was a real buzz on campus when DC was officially recognized as a Bee Campus by the Pollinator Partnership, recognizing our sustainability efforts to support pollinators and protect biodiversity.

DC marked a historic milestone at Spring Convocation 2025, celebrating the achievements of our career-ready graduates.

A collaborative applied research project was launched to empower parents with cognitive challenges by developing tools and supports that enhance daily living and family well-being.

A strategic partnership with NAIT was formed to advance AI literacy in Canada’s energy sector, equipping learners and industry with skills for emerging technologies.

The Centre for Craft Beverage Innovation expanded its capabilities with a new grant to strengthen industry-aligned training and applied research in craft beverage production.

Indigenous artist Emma Whiteye created space for reflection and connection within the DC community.

Accolades

DC was once again named one of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges by Research Infosource Inc., affirming its national leadership in applied research and innovation.

Durham College faculty were recognized this year for excellence, innovation and teaching, with Dr. Teresa Avvampato honoured with the OSOT Innovation and Impact Award, Dave Hawey earning a prestigious Worldchefs Global Certification, and Professor Chris Daniel named an Outstanding Educator by OACETT.

The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture was honoured with a 2025 Durham Region Accessibility Award for its commitment to inclusive design and community impact.

DC student Abigail Ansell received golden recognition from Colleges and Institutes Canada, celebrating student leadership and achievement on a national stage.

Durham College graduate Daylan Belsey claimed first place in animation at the Ubisoft Toronto NEXT Challenge, highlighting student talent and creative achievement on a global stage.

DC proudly celebrated its 2025 Alumni of Distinction recipients, recognizing graduates who are making meaningful contributions in their fields and communities. Two of those recipients were awarded one of Ontario’s highest honours for college alumni. Jeremy Burns and Aaron Dale, co-founders of the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP), received the Premier’s Award for their groundbreaking work supporting military veterans.

Durham College graduate Andre Ata received the prestigious New World Award from the Canadian Bureau for International Education in recognition of his contributions to global learning through transformative international experiences.

Programs and Academics

This year, we welcomed the first classes in our new Electric Drive Vehicle Technician and Interior Decorating programs.

DC’s new partnership with RPA Canada is creating an innovative pathway for accounting graduates to advance their professional credentials.

We partnered with Achēv to train licensed automotive service and body repair technicians on how to properly service electric vehicles.

Our partnership with Seven Generations Education Institute helped to expand access to healthcare education for Indigenous and non-Indigenous learners in Northern Ontario.

A new program to strengthen mental health care skills for healthcare and community service professionals was launched to respond to growing demand for compassionate, evidence-informed care.

The AI Hub launched a new executive development program to help professionals get up to speed with artificial intelligence and its transformative impact.

Five new industry-driven programs launching in Fall 2026 were announced to help learners build career-ready skills aligned with evolving workforce needs.

An international partnership with Ayrshire College was launched to drive innovation in industry and skills development, expanding global learning and collaboration opportunities.

A new diploma-to-degree agreement with Trent University was established to accelerate talent development for the supply chain sector through a clear pathway from college to university.

Experiential Learning

Students applied their skills through online game development for the Barrett Centre, gaining real-world experience while supporting a community partner.

A partnership with Community Care Durham is delivering workplace training that supports personal support workers and strengthens local care services.

DC students deepened their learning by travelling around the globe, gaining global perspectives through international experiences.

DC partnered with the Lakeridge Health Foundation for the NightShift 2025 emergency simulation event, giving students and community members hands-on experience in fast-paced medical scenarios.

Sport Management and Sport Business Management students had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to work as ambassadors for Major League Baseball and Stand Up To Cancer at Game 2 of the World Series.

DC Supply Chain students embraced experiential learning through real-world challenges, including the SAP ERPSIM competition and collaborative international projects.

Athletics

The Durham Lords completed a successful winter season, with men’s basketball capturing the OCAA championship and earning national silver, volleyball teams posting strong performances and the varsity curling squad making a memorable return.

DC volleyball players shone on the national stage, showcasing talent, teamwork and competitive excellence.

Sitting volleyball became a hit at DC, highlighting inclusive sport opportunities on campus.

The Durham Lords men’s basketball team captured the OCAA championship and earned CCAA silver, marking a standout campaign. Our volleyball teams also posted strong performances, and the revived curling squad made its mark on the ice.

The Fall 2025 season was another successful one for Lords, with our Women’s Rugby Sevens club became the first in OCAA history to win four consecutive provincial championships. The men’s rugby team brought home provincial silver while DCSA Executive Chairwoman Megan Bent, who is also serving as Student Governor on the DC Board of Governors, wrapped up her stellar collegiate rugby career and welcomed her sister as a fellow student.

As we close the chapter on 2025, we celebrate the achievements, creativity, and dedication of our students, employees, and partners, and look ahead with excitement to all that 2026 will bring to the Durham College community.

Durham College spreads holiday cheer with Wrap for Hope

Durham College (DC) is embracing the holiday spirit by participating in Wrap for Hope, a volunteer-driven initiative that supports families in our community through the Durham Children’s Aid Foundation’s Holiday Hope campaign.

On December 19, more than 50 DC staff members are spreading festive cheer as they volunteer at the Oshawa Centre’s gift wrapping station. Decked out in DC green across day and evening shifts, colleagues are tying bows, chatting with holiday shoppers, and encouraging donations. Every wrapped package raises funds that directly fuel the Holiday Hope Shop, a welcoming space where parents and caregivers can personally select gifts and essentials at no cost. This approach fosters dignity and belonging at a time that can be especially challenging for those facing financial strain.

“Wrap for Hope raises critical funds that support children, youth, and families throughout the year. We are grateful to Durham College for volunteering at the Wrap for Hope station and helping make this work possible,” says Julie Van Hartingsveldt, Executive Director of the Durham Children’s Aid Foundation.

For DC, the opportunity to participate is about more than just gift wrapping. “We’re thrilled to offer our employees a meaningful way to give back,” says Ariel Sully, Associate Vice President, Advancement and Alumni Relations. “Partnering with the Durham Children’s Aid Foundation reflects our commitment to being a community-connected college and to making a positive impact beyond our campuses.”

The event also highlights how volunteering strengthens workplace connections. “Working side by side and sharing in the collective effort highlights the power of coming together,” says Jennifer Cosway, Associate Vice President, Human Resources and Equity, “reinforcing the values of care, inclusion, and generosity that define our culture at Durham College.”

Durham Lords shine in the fall

The Durham Lords were one of the Ontario College Athletic Association’s (OCAA) most successful programs this fall.

Three of our Durham College (DC) teams brought home OCAA medals, while the others all enjoyed competitive seasons they can build on next year.

Read on for a closer look at how our teams made us DC Proud.

  • Women’s Rugby

    Our DC Women’s Rugby Sevens club were a force once again in the OCAA, going undefeated for a 14-0 regular season. They followed that with three more impressive victories (22-0 over Fleming, 52-0 over Seneca and 34-0 over Humber) to become the first team in OCAA women’s rugby history to win four consecutive provincial championships.

    The Lords were simply unmatched this year, outscoring their opponents in 17 games by an astonishing combined score of 702-19.

    Unsurprisingly, our athletes took home a number of individual awards. Amber Edgerton was named Player of the Year as well as Championship MVP, while Sarah Clayton grabbed Rookie of the Year honours and was named a Championship All-Star alongside Daniella Kimevski.

    Clayton, Edgerton and teammate Camryn Wood were also named League All-Stars. Clayton added yet another accolade when she was named to the All-Rookie team.

    “Dominance is the way to describe their season,” said Scott Dennis, Athletic Director. “A ton of individual awards as well, but it really was a team effort.”

  • Men’s Rugby

    Like their counterparts, the Men’s Rugby Lords were undefeated in the regular season, going 6-0 for their first-place finish. They fell just shy of the provincial championship, bringing home the OCAA silver.

    Devonne Henry was a force for the Lords, recognized as Player of the Year, Scoring Champion and a League All-Star.

    Owen MacKinnon, Dylan McLean-Henry and Ethan Montgomery were also named League All-Stars, while Taylor Payne earned All-Rookie honours.

    The accolades weren’t limited to the field. Head coach John Watkins was inducted into the Rugby Ontario Hall of Fame as a builder in recognition of his contributions to the sport.

    “It was a tremendous season, with an undefeated regular season and then a return to the podium. It was quite the accomplishment,” said Dennis.

  • Women’s Softball

    With a 17-3 regular season record, our Women’s Softball team finished first, once again proving they’re among the very best in the OCAA. A strong effort in the playoffs earned a provincial bronze medal, and they fell just shy of replicating the feat at the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) National Championship. They travelled to Calgary for the competition, where they picked up victories over Laurier and Humber and lost by just one run to the eventual champion University of British Columbia - Okanagan. In the bronze medal game, they fell to the University of Saskatchewan to finish fourth in the country.

    Makayla Benz was named Pitcher of the Year, while Jessica Benz was a Championship All-Star. The sisters were also named First Team All-Stars alongside their teammate Emily Taylor. The team boasted a number of Second Team All-Stars as well, including Jessica Greene, Vanessa Ng, Jocelyn Shelton and Georgia Willsie, who also made the All-Rookie team.

    “They had another tremendous season on the diamond, and we'll look to get even stronger next year,” said Dennis.

  • Men’s Baseball

    With a competitive 11-7 record, the Lords finished fourth in the regular season and matched that result at the OCAA Championship.

    Standout players included Matt Jones (Pitcher of the Year, First Team All-Star and All-Rookie), Eddie Borutskie (First Team All-Star), and Second Team All-Stars Malik James and Erik Smith.

    “They won their game against Humber to play in the final four, and then they lost their next two games by a single run,” said Dennis. “It could have gone either way. Overall, it was a great season for head coach Scott Cawker and the team.”

  • Women’s Soccer

    Our Women’s Soccer team posted a 6-4 regular season record to finish fourth in the East division, before bowing out of the Provincial Championship in the quarter final.

    Alexis Bayley was named a First Team All-Star while Julia Fontana, Erin Michalicka and Sage Thomas-Roberts were Second Team All-Stars.

    “They had another run at the championship, making it to the final eight. They lost to the eventual champion,” said Dennis. “It was a good showing by the team overall.”

  • Men’s Soccer

    The Men’s Soccer team made us proud in September with a big win over Ontario Tech University in the Campus Cup. Their regular season record of 6-2-2 was good for fourth in the East, and they delivered a strong effort in the Provincial qualifier.

    Deandre Watkis was a First Team All-Star, with Second Team All-Star honours going to Jaden Grant, Zachery Hamedi, Kahlil John-Wentworth and Michael Arfanis, who was also an All-Rookie.

    Head coach Dave Ashfield was recognized with the East Division Coach of the Year award.

    “It’s always great to start off the year by beating your campus rivals. They had a great regular season, but ultimately fell short in the playoffs, losing a tough one to Niagara College here on home turf at Vaso’s Field. But overall, it was a good season and good progress for the team.”

  • Golf

    Our DC golfers finished fourth at the OCAA Championship and sixth at the CCAA National Championship. Owen Mailhot had a terrific year, earning Rookie of the Year and Golf All-Ontario honours, and finishing fourth out of 34 golfers at the provincial championship. He was 15th out of 47 at the national competition, with teammate Cory Pharand finishing 17th.

    “They were back in the national championship scene and had a great showing. They continued to improve throughout the year,” said Dennis.

It was a season filled with highlights, achievement and growth for our varsity programs, and one for the DC community to be proud of.

“We have some of the top talent here at Durham College playing for our varsity programs, and they do such a great job representing us.”

Making the cut: DC Carpentry students craft sustainable creations from scraps

When Colin Darch enrolled in Durham College’s (DC) Carpentry and Renovation Technician program in 2024, he looked forward to hands-on projects that would challenge his creativity and problem-solving skills. He didn’t expect, however, that a pile of leftover wood scraps would become such a memorable learning experience.

The idea began in the Carpentry shop, where students repurposed offcuts from larger projects into sleek, DC-branded cutting boards – a classroom exercise that quickly evolved into a green initiative now connecting programs, departments, and communities across the college.

“This project is all about sustainability and providing students with hands-on experience they can carry with them,” said Mick Weinberg, Carpentry professor and project founder. “Students not only learn essential woodworking skills but also an understanding of the value of using – and reusing – materials in meaningful ways.”

Students from the Carpentry and Renovation Technician, Carpentry – Building Construction Technician and Trades Fundamentals programs have embraced the challenge, which offers the chance to operate a wide range of tools and equipment — from planers and jointers to sanders and routers — and learn everything from precision cutting to finishing techniques.

“As the students measure, shape, sand, and assemble each piece, it’s rewarding to see the confidence they gain with tools not always used in the classroom. These practical skills will translate directly to industry work when they graduate,” said Weinberg.

Darch said the project has helped him deepen his understanding of carpentry and lesson content discussed in class: “Working on projects like this lets us put into practice the techniques we’re taught. It really helps set the information in your mind.”

Collaboration was a key part of the project, adding to the overall experience. “Everyone brought different experience to the table, and we learned from each other,” said Darch.

For fellow student John Kozak, seeing the transformation was the highlight. “I enjoyed watching rough lumber go through many stages into a final project I’m proud of. It feels good knowing that things I created are being used by so many people,” he said.

The cutting boards have since taken on a life of their own. With more than 60 crafted to date, they have been sold in the Pantry – DC’s unique retail food store, auctioned at the Enactus fundraising gala, gifted at work-integrated learning events, shared with donors, and even presented to industry partners in Scotland. The boards have also been featured in giveaways in the Bistro ’67 dining room and sold at college events, such as Open House, offering guests a unique and lasting keepsake of their visit to DC.

This student-powered project highlights DC’s sustainable, hands-on approach to learning and is just one of many ways the college continues to foster innovative experiences that strengthen a greener, more connected campus community.

Hospitality students prepared for adventurous future with Fairmont

Durham College’s (DC) Hospitality students receive hands-on training from industry professionals, developing the transferable skills that employers in the service industry are looking for. Recently, they got a glimpse of what their future careers could look like with one such employer.

Bre Wittgen, Talent Acquisition Manager with Fairmont Banff Springs, paid a visit to our Whitby campus to share information about the iconic hotel company’s Summer Work Experience Program (SWEP) and graduate programs.

“Students can take the education that they’ve learned here at DC and apply their skills to get hands-on experience of working in a luxury property,” explained Wittgen, a native of Whitby who spoke of her own experience moving out west to pursue her career in the picturesque locales of western Canada.

The SWEP program was of particular interest to the DC students. More than just a summer job, it’s a program geared towards students on their academic break. The four months are packed with learning experiences and professional development opportunities, including welcome and networking events, guidance from seasoned staff and mentors, and a special graduating ceremony at the end of their term.

DC has partnered with Fairmont for over 15 years, and the agreement has been mutually beneficial according to Tricia Wiseman, Faculty Member in DC’s Faculty of Hospitality and Horticultural Science (HHS).

“Our partnership helps connect students to industry, supports our work-integrated learning goals, and provides additional training that extends beyond the classroom,” she said. “Our students bring concrete, transferrable and technical skills to their workplace. Fairmont values the enthusiasm and skills our students bring to their operations. They gain motivated, well-trained, and engaged students eager for a career in Hospitality.”

The presentation had the current DC students in attendance thinking about the possibilities that lie ahead. One of them was Devonte Black, a first-year student in DC’s Hospitality Skills program.

“I learned a lot. Bre shined light on how many different options you have when you first enter this industry,” he said. “The career path I see for myself after the presentation is a bit brighter. There are so many different pieces of a hotel, like food and beverage, guest services and the golf courses too. From there you can enter a position like front desk agent or server, and then earn your stripes to become a manager.”

Wittgen introduced students to Fairmont’s properties, job roles, and the personal experiences employees can have, giving them a clear understanding of what to expect and how to apply.

First-year Hospitality – Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management student Sasha Gracez was particularly intrigued to learn that over 50 per cent of Fairmont’s management are women.

“It was quite enticing,” she said. “There are a lot of opportunities to move and grow in the Fairmont properties.”

DC students who thrive in their Hospitality program will be ready to take advantage of those opportunities.

DC recognizes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

The Durham College (DC) community came together this week to recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

Students and employees gathered in the Rotary Global Classroom of the Oshawa campus on Thursday, December 4 for a memorial event to honour the victims of École Polytechnique de Montréal and all those affected by gender-based violence.

This year marks the 36th anniversary of the attack on December 6, 1989 when a gunman entered a mechanical engineering classroom at the Montreal school, killing 14 young women and injuring 13 others.

Their memories were top of mind for everyone who attended the event, including DC President, Dr. Elaine Popp.

“This tragedy shook post-secondary institutions across the country — including communities like ours — and continues to resonate deeply more than three decades later,” said Dr. Popp. “As we reflect on the lives lost that day, we renew our commitment to confronting the hatred that fueled this violence and the gender-based discrimination that persists today.”

The gathering included memorial readings, with the names of the Montreal victims read aloud, as well as a moment of silence. There was also a powerful musical performance by Aqua Nibii Waawasskone, accompanied by the dancing of Rachel Taunton, Indigenous Communities Outreach Coordinator with DC’s First Peoples Indigenous Centre.

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women will officially be observed on Saturday, December 6, and all flags on campus will be lowered to half-mast.

Durham College remains committed to fostering a safe, inclusive campus free from all forms of violence. The college encourages every member of the DC community to speak out against harmful behaviours and help end gender-based violence.

“We are called to create communities where every person can pursue their dreams without fear and live free from intimidation or harm,” said Marisa Mei, Sexual Violence Education and Prevention Coordinator. “Education, awareness, and strong allyship are essential in the fight to end femicide and gender-based violence. By challenging harmful assumptions, supporting survivors with compassion, and advocating for systems and policies that uphold safety and accountability, each of us has the power and the responsibility to make a difference.”