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Durham College advancing learner mobility through two ONCAT-funded projects

Durham College (DC) is reducing barriers to education and advancing learner mobility through two innovative projects funded by the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT).

The initiatives will enhance access to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) and improve transfer credit transparency, helping learners receive recognition for their previous education, work and life experience while making more informed decisions about their educational pathways.

The projects reflect the expertise of our teams and our commitment to creating more accessible pathways for learners, and are part of ONCAT’s 2025-26 funding program supporting learner mobility initiatives across Ontario.

When completed, the work will make it easier for students to move into and through post-secondary education so they can focus on advancing their knowledge and skills.

Reducing Barriers to Post-secondary Programs through Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)

Last year, DC received more than 700 PLAR requests, representing a 38% increase over the previous year. This ONCAT-funded initiative will help DC manage the increasing demand while making it easier for learners to receive academic credit for relevant work and life experience.

The project will result in a searchable repository of PLAR assessments, providing DC staff with easier access to information to support a more streamlined process.

“Recognizing prior learning saves students time and money,” said Kate Staig, Director, Program Quality and Development, Professional and Part-time Learning. “This is an amazing opportunity to reduce barriers and create equitable opportunities for learners to thrive academically, personally, and professionally.”

Enhancing Transfer Credit Database to Support Learner Mobility

For students entering DC with prior education, understanding how their existing credits will apply to a new program is an important factor in the decision-making process.

To better support these learners, DC’s Transfer Services team is enhancing the college’s transfer credit system to provide clearer insight into potential credit recognition before a student accepts their offer of admission. By integrating application data with student information systems, the project will introduce automated pre-assessments that evaluate transfer credits at the point of admission.

“This is something students consistently ask for – they want to understand what credits they’ll receive before committing to DC,” explained Alexandra Bursey, Manager, Transfer Services. “By increasing transparency in the credit recognition process, DC will be a more attractive option for students who want to make an informed decision about their future studies.”

Barrett Centre recognized as Community Agent of Change by Pickering College

The Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture at Durham College (DC) has been recognized for its work in creating and supporting innovative solutions that empower the community to build and participate in resilient local food systems.

Earlier this year, Pickering College honoured the Centre with its Community Agent of Change award. The award is given annually to individuals and organizations who leave the world better than they found it and represent the Quaker values the school upholds.

“The Barrett Centre is honoured to receive this award, recognizing our team’s work to create lasting systemic impact,” said Brenna Bizley, Partnership Manager. “A core element of our work is related to food literacy and understanding how food grows, while also connecting with youth to help them become good stewards of the earth, their communities, and schools.”

The Barrett Centre has worked with Pickering College to deliver urban agriculture workshops to students, consult on the growth of the school’s Blue and Silver farm, and share expertise on best practices.

“Community engagements like this are a great opportunity to develop new programs and workshops for various age groups, demographics, and learning styles,” said Bizley. “Having engaged over 17,000 community members through educational initiatives and digital resources, we are building more resilient local food systems.”

New Chair and Vice Chair elected by Durham College Board of Governors

The Durham College Board of Governors (BOG) has elected Peter Pryce as Chair and John Ecker as Vice Chair for the 2026–2027 board year. In these leadership roles, Pryce and Ecker will guide the Board in fulfilling its governance mandate, providing strategic oversight and supporting the long-term success of the College.

Pryce has served on the Board for four years and brings an operational perspective through his role as a Senior Operations Manager at Lakeside Performance Gas Services. His experience with large-scale project execution, along with his interest in mentorship and workforce development, aligns with the Board’s priorities related to sustainability, industry connection, and student outcomes. He also holds a designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

“I am honoured and excited to take on the role of Chair of the Durham College Board of Governors for 2026–2027,” said Pryce. “I look forward to working closely with my fellow governors and engaging with management in a transparent, collaborative, and productive environment that fosters strong governance, advances our strategic priorities, and ensures long-term financial sustainability. Together, the Board will continue to guide the College in achieving its goals, upholding sound policies, driving continuous improvement, and supporting the College’s ongoing success.”

Ecker, a Lieutenant-Governor-in-Council appointee, has served on the Board for three years and brings executive-level experience in governance, communications, branding, and fundraising. His background spans the nonprofit, public, and faith sectors, and he currently serves as Chair of the Ontario Heritage Trust and as a member of several boards, including the Durham Regional Police Service Board.

“At their core, good boards function as teams. I look forward to supporting Peter as our new board team leader,” said Ecker. “The province’s recent $151.4 million investment in Durham College will help our incoming Board stay focused on student success and delivering programs that lead to great careers.”

Together, the Chair and Vice Chair play a critical role in fostering effective governance practices, ensuring transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making. The Board remains committed to upholding its fiduciary responsibilities and advancing the College’s purpose through collaborative leadership and sound governance.

Learn more about the Board’s governance framework and officer roles by reviewing the Board policy.

Largest gift in Durham College’s history supports the future of sustainable urban agriculture

Durham College (DC) has received multimillion-dollar, long-term funding from the Barrett Family Foundation, marking the largest philanthropic gift in the college’s 59-year history.

This transformational donation will amplify the impact of the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre), a community-based living lab where DC students and community members gain hands-on learning experiences through urban agriculture programming and operations. Learning opportunities will be enhanced through new programs, expanded scholarships and bursaries, and open educational resources. The purchase of new equipment and technologies will ensure graduates are career-ready, with the knowledge and skills to advance sustainable practices in the agriculture industry.

“We are deeply grateful for the Barrett Family Foundation’s continued investment in Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President. “This support reflects the power of our partnership — creating future-focused learning environments for students while strengthening connections between education and the evolving needs of communities and industries. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the future of sustainable urban agriculture in Durham Region and beyond.”

Since opening in 2023, the Barrett Centre has cultivated thriving partnerships rooted in a commitment to developing strong, locally sourced food supplies and educating future generations about nutrition and the importance of diverse food systems. To date, more than 37,000 community members have participated in workshops and activations, and over 9,000 pounds of food have been donated to local food banks and partners.

The Barrett Centre aims to be a benchmark institution helping to shape the future of sustainable food systems. This includes driving systems change across Canada and globally, empowering communities to replicate and scale the successful farming operations already established at the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm and the college’s Whitby campus.

“Durham College is a leader in urban agriculture education,” said the Barrett Family Foundation. “Our financial contribution reflects our shared belief that sustainable urban agriculture is a key factor to building more resilient, food secure communities while also creating rewarding career opportunities.”

The Barrett Centre currently features approximately two acres of productive market gardens and orchards, an apiary, season extending hoop houses, the Food Literacy Innovation Zone, and an accessible indoor hydroponic farm – the first of its kind at a Canadian post-secondary institution. From June to October, the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm is open to the public during its Farm Gate Sales, when community members are invited to tour the farm and purchase fresh, low-cost produce grown on-site. Visit the Barrett Centre website to learn more.

Durham College joins four post-secondary institutions to form Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium

Durham College (DC) has joined forces with four leading Ontario post-secondary institutions to help meet Canada’s growing clean energy and nuclear workforce demands. Together with Centennial College, Georgian College, Humber Polytechnic, and Ontario Tech University, DC has officially committed to signing a Memorandum of Understanding that will establish the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium (CCEW).

The consortium will collaborate on a co-ordinated workforce development strategy including the design, delivery and scaling of education and training programs to prepare learners for careers across the nuclear and renewable energy sectors. As Canada accelerates its transition to a clean energy economy, demand for skilled talent continues to grow. Industry estimates indicate that beginning in 2030, close to 40,000 new workers will be required across Canada’s nuclear sector to support new build, refurbishment, and the broader clean energy transition. The CCEW partnership represents a unified commitment to work closely with industry and government partners, aligning education and training with employer timelines and national priorities.

“Durham College is proud to partner with Centennial, Georgian, Humber, and Ontario Tech, in a coordinated new model of collaboration focused on shaping the future of Canada’s clean energy workforce,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President. “Our strength at DC is in hands-on, career-ready education aligned with labour-market demands, and strong employer partnerships. Through the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium, we are building on that foundation — creating new opportunities for students, supporting innovation, and contributing to a resilient, future-ready workforce and ensuring Canada is well-positioned to lead in the transition to a clean energy future.”

Guided by an Industry Advisory Council, the consortium leverages the complementary strengths of each institution to support training and upskilling in priority areas including:

  • Skilled trades
  • Nuclear operations and Small Modular Reactor (SMR) support
  • Cybersecurity and digital infrastructure
  • Renewable energy systems
  • Microgrids and smart grids
  • Artificial intelligence applications in energy

While post-secondary program development can take years to move from concept to scale, the coordinated approach of the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium is intended to accelerate program development and responsiveness. This model enables faster program approvals, shared applied research opportunities for industry, and high-quality, experiential, job-ready learning for students.

Domestically, the partnership enables a coordinated approach to pursuing funding opportunities, while offering industry and learners a single, streamlined point of access. Credentials, ranging from micro-credentials to graduate programs, will help strengthen workforce pathways in Canada and support broader collaboration opportunities internationally. While CCEW partners are currently Ontario‑based, the consortium expects to expand to include institutions from across Canada.

Internationally, the consortium will develop a capacity building framework to support emerging nuclear economies including Indonesia and the Philippines, delivering workforce training programs in partnership with Canadian industry.

Durham College, Johnson Controls celebrate three years of driving engineering innovation

Durham College (DC) and Johnson Controls are working together to bring the best in engineering technology education to students across Durham Region.

Since 2023, the multinational company has contributed close to $400,000 in grant funding to DC. The successful partnership has made a profound impact on DC’s Electromechanical Engineering Technology (EMTY) program by:

  • Delivering $56,000 in bursaries for students facing financial barriers
  • Funding the purchase of Building Automation Trainers and 3D Printers
  • Expanding hands-on learning opportunities that align education with industry needs
  • Pairing 27 students with mentors from Johnson Controls

“Through our partnership with Johnson Controls, we’ve been able to drive excellence in teaching and learning for those interested in pursuing a career in automation and engineering technology,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students.

“This partnership is a meaningful example of applied workforce innovation in action, highlighting how industry, education, and community collaboration work together to support student success, meet labour market needs, and drive regional economic growth.”

Last week, representatives from Johnson Controls as well as Oshawa City Councillor Jim Lee joined Dr. Choi and EMTY program coordinator Beau James for a tour of DC’s Integrated Manufacturing Centre.

One of those representatives was System Team Leader Ken Scott who, like a number of his colleagues at Johnson Controls, is a proud DC alumnus. In fact, that history played a key role in the creation of the partnership.

“Why was Durham College chosen? I would say it’s because so many of our employees got their start here,” said Scott, who reminisced about his days as a student working on his first traffic light project. “We know the value of the program; it has a sound curriculum crafted through outreach to industry partners. We know that DC students will bring value to Johnson Controls. We’re hoping that this collaboration can continue well into the future.”

The partnership continues to evolve. This year, a $5,000 grant went to the Robotics Club at O’Neill Collegiate and Vocational Institute, and third-year students enjoyed an experiential learning trip to Ripley’s Aquarium in Toronto. In addition, plans continue for a new teaching lab at DC; the Johnson Controls Building Automation Laboratory.

Johnson Controls continues to look to DC for new talent, with two 2026 graduates already having secured full-time jobs and one current student preparing for their summer co-op. With such a clear pathway available, it’s no surprise that enrolment in the program has been steadily rising since the partnership began in 2023.

Wherever our EMTY graduates end up, they’re sure to make us DC Proud.

“It’s inspiring to hear about our DC graduates who have been recruited by industry and have become leaders in their sector. It really does speak to why we do what we do,” said Dr. Choi.

Durham College and Ayrshire College advance international partnership through immersive training innovation

Durham College (DC) and Ayrshire College are strengthening their international collaboration through a project that emphasizes workforce development, learning innovation and industry-focused education.

At the centre of this project is a 3D mixed-reality model of a Boeing turbine engine, managed by DC’s Corporate Training Services and developed by DC’s Mixed Reality Capture Studio (MRC). The interactive model allows students to explore the engine in detail, virtually disassembling components to better understand how the technology is built, maintained and serviced.

“Our partnership with Ayrshire College demonstrates how collaboration can transform workforce development. Together, we are creating immersive learning experiences that give learners a deeper understanding of complex systems, while preparing them for the evolving demands of industry,” said Robin Young, Managing Director, Business and Workforce Development, Corporate Training Services at Durham College.

The model was developed after Ayrshire College secured funding in 2025 to enhance programming through advanced learning technologies, with DC working closely with partners in Scotland to bring it to life. A DC delegation recently travelled to Scotland to meet with Ayrshire College partners and participate in a funders’ event celebrating the launch.

During the visit, representatives from both colleges also identified priority areas for future work, with a focus on initiatives that respond to evolving industry and labour market needs.

“Partnerships like this are vital in ensuring our learners are equipped for the future world of work,” said Alistair Rodgers, Director of Enterprise Development, Ayrshire College. “Working with Durham College allows us to bring innovation to life through immersive, industry-relevant learning that enhances both skills development and learner experience. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to delivering high-quality education that responds to the needs of employers, supports economic growth, and creates meaningful opportunities for individuals and communities both locally and globally.”

Established in 2025 through the Scottish Educational Exchange Programme (SEEP), the partnership enables both colleges to pursue joint initiatives in applied research, skills development and industry engagement. By combining their expertise in workforce training and immersive technologies, they are creating new opportunities for learners and strengthening the global exchange of knowledge.

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. 

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.

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.