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Durham College powers up Ontario’s workforce with new Electric Drive Vehicle Technician program

As the demand for electric and hybrid vehicles continue to rise, so does the need for skilled technicians capable of maintaining and servicing these advanced systems. Responding to this industry need, Durham College (DC) has launched its new Electric Drive Vehicle Technician (EDVT) program, one of only two offered in Ontario. With the automotive sector rapidly transitioning to greener technologies, DC’s program is designed to equip graduates with the expertise needed to thrive while meeting the province’s demand for electric vehicle (EV) professionals.

“With the automotive sector undergoing a significant transformation, Durham College is committed to offering new programs that align with industry trends and provide students with career-ready skills,” says Dr. Rebecca Milburn, Executive Dean, Faculty of Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship and Principal at Whitby campus. “What makes the Electric Drive Vehicle Technician program unique is its focus on both traditional mechanical expertise and the specialized knowledge required for electric and hybrid vehicle systems. Our graduates will be well-positioned to succeed in this growing field.”

For more than two decades, Canada’s clean transport industry has been the fastest-growing industry within the country’s clean energy sector. With significant investments, totaling over $17 billion since 2020, the Canadian and Ontario governments have prioritized EV manufacturing, positioning Ontario as a future hub for this innovative industry.

Emerging professionals in DC’s EDVT program will build on their understanding of conventional vehicle systems inside the college’s state-of-the-art Vanhaverbeke Family EV Training Centre and develop expertise in diagnosing and servicing electric and hybrid vehicles from various manufacturers. Homer Manlangit, Faculty member, says the two-year diploma program is specifically designed to equip learners with the technical knowledge required to succeed.

“To ensure their success post-graduation, students will work with the latest tools and technologies used in the industry, while gaining practical experience in areas such as high-voltage electrical systems, electric drivetrains, and battery management,” he says. “The program also covers the fundamentals of hybrid vehicles, and we teach students how to service and maintain these increasingly popular vehicles, which combine traditional internal combustion engines with electric power.”

In addition to technical skills, students will develop critical problem-solving abilities by working on real-world scenarios in state-of-the-art shops, simulating the complexities they’ll encounter in the field. By the time they graduate, they’ll have completed a 56-hour EV capstone project that fuses learning from previous coursework in electric and hybrid vehicle technology, offering a hands-on, project-based experience.

DC’s EDVT program reflects the college’s commitment to sustainability and remaining future focused as an industry leader and is currently accepting applicants for September 2025. Those interested in creating a greener future and launching a career in this in-demand field are encouraged to apply online today.

Durham College grad receives G.W. McLaughlin Award

Durham College (DC) alumnus Kyle Douglas has been named the 2024 G.W. McLaughlin Award recipient by the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce (GOCC), recognizing the profound impact he has made in his community. Selected by the Chamber’s Board President, this award is given to an individual who displays exceptional dedication to the community, outstanding career achievement, civic pride and who has been a mentor, both in business and in life, to the Board President.

“Kyle truly embodies the spirit of the G.W. McLaughlin Award,” said GOCC CEO, Jason King. “I’ve only known Kyle for just over three years. In this time, I’ve seen firsthand his dedication to both the Chamber and the Oshawa community. His easy style of community leadership, enthusiastic commitment to service, and genuine care for others make him more than deserving of this recognition.”

Winning this award so early on in his career underlines Douglas’ natural commitment to community, which he says was instilled in him by his family who emphasized the importance of giving back. In addition to leadership roles on various Chamber committees, he also served on the GOCC’s Board of Directors from 2018 to 2019, making him the youngest President in the Chamber’s history.

Outside of his involvement with the GOCC, Douglas currently volunteers his time through coaching his children’s sports teams, on the Durham Regional Police Appreciation Dinner & Awards Night committee, and as a Durham College Alumni Association (DCAA) Board Director.

“Joining the DCAA Board of Directors felt like a great way for me to stay connected with the college,” explained Douglas. “To give back to the institution that played such a pivotal role in my life is really important. I’ve always believed that supporting the alumni association strengthens the community. It’s inspiring to see the positive impact our college has on students and the local workforce.”

A 2011 graduate of DC’s Human Resources – Business Administration program, Douglas began his DC education as a mature student and attributes his choice to enroll at DC to the college’s strong presence in the community. In his role as Manager, Corporate Services at DKI CRCS, a family-owned business started by Douglas’ parents, he acknowledges his company hires a large percentage of DC grads from a wide range of programs.

“Durham College provides their students with the practical skills and real-world experience they need to succeed in their career,” said Douglas. “You can get an education anywhere, but when you have top-level faculty, staff and facilities, it really makes it difference in in what students get out of their school.”

DKI CRCS provides residential and commercial restoration services from their offices in Oshawa and Peterborough. The company just celebrated its 45-year anniversary in September.

Durham College’s student recruitment team gearing up to connect with thousands of prospective students this fall

Durham College (DC) is preparing for a busy fall season, with its recruitment team primed to connect with prospective students at a variety of local events. These interactions provide valuable opportunities for future DC students to explore more than 145 innovative programs, engage with recruiters, and discover the college’s vibrant community and student life.

DC’s recruitment team will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on the college’s wide range of career-driven programs and services at several upcoming events, including:

Ontario College Fair – October 16 and 17
DC will be participating in the Ontario College Fair, one of the largest post-secondary education events in Toronto. This highly anticipated event allows attendees to meet face-to-face with recruiters, ask questions, and explore programs and support services. Whether prospective students are interested in upgrading their education, pathways to university, or gaining career-ready skills, the Ontario College Fair provides a prime opportunity to discover how DC can support their future goals.

College Information Program – October 24
For those seeking a more personal connection, DC will host College Information Program (CIP) events at both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses. Attendees can tour the campuses, speak directly with recruiters from more than 20 Ontario Colleges, and learn about college programs available across the province. With both campuses offering different program options and state-of-the-art facilities, the CIP events provide a comprehensive look at the DC experience.

Fall Open House – November 9
Prospective students and their families are invited to join us at our Fall Open House for the chance to experience DC firsthand. This event offers an immersive look into campus life, where attendees can tour the college’s cutting-edge facilities, engage with faculty and student services representatives, and meet current students. Whether guests are upleveling their education or just beginning their academic journey, Open House serves as a perfect opportunity to explore everything DC has to offer.

For those unable to attend these events, DC’s student recruitment team is available year-round to answer questions and provide guidance. From virtual meetings to in-person campus tours, prospective students can connect with the team to make informed decisions about their academic future.

Get to know our recruiters and discover a full list of recruitment events online.

DC engineering grads can leverage their learning with new Queen’s University Diploma-to-Degree Pathway

Durham College’s (DC) engineering technology graduates can get a head start on their degree thanks to a new pathway agreement with Queen’s University.

Students who graduate from DC with one of our advanced diplomas in Engineering Technology can now transfer into an upper year of the civil, mining, mechanical, or chemical degree programs offered by Smith Engineering at Queen’s.

“We are thrilled about the strong partnership between DC and Queen’s University. This is a testament to our commitment to providing students with the best possible educational experience,” said Kara Woods, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Science, Engineering and Technology. “By integrating practical learning from DC with the rigorous academic framework at Queen’s, we are empowering students to transition smoothly from diploma to degree.”

One such student is Mitch Connelly, a 2021 graduate of DC’s Civil Engineering Technology program who is part of the pathway’s inaugural cohort that began their studies in September. After years of working in the engineering field, he decided to return to school to upgrade his skills, and his timing was perfect.

“It’s a lot cheaper than doing a full undergraduate degree straight from high school, and college is also more practical. I think employers recognize that,” he said of the pathway. “It’s better to go this route. You get a better education and more connections.”

Mitch’s post-DC success and his pursuit of a degree at Queen’s serve as an example to today’s students, according to Civil Engineering Technology program coordinator Myla Minelli.

“Mitch exemplifies the dedication, hard work, and determination that we strive to instill in all our students,” she said.

More DC students are set to take advantage of the new pathway, with seven beginning the required online preparatory courses this fall before attending a full semester of foundational classes next summer. They will then enter their respective programs at Queen’s in September of 2025.

The Smith Engineering Bridge pathway is funded by the Ontario Council on Articulation and Transfer (ONCAT).

Students shine at successful Harvest Dinner

An iconic Durham College (DC) tradition continued on September 19, made possible by our talented and hard-working students, staff and faculty members.

Each year, the Harvest Dinner marks the arrival of fall with a unique dining experience under the stars at our Whitby Campus. It’s the result of countless hours of preparation in the W. Galen Weston Centre for Food’s (Weston Centre) fields, labs and classrooms, and an invaluable opportunity for experiential learning.

Students in DC’s Culinary programs worked tirelessly in the Bistro ’67 kitchen to prepare the delicious food that was served at the event, and those from the Horticulture programs harvested all of the produce that was featured on the menu. Event Planning students helped set up and provided terrific service throughout the evening, while Hospitality volunteers handled bartending and serving duties.

“It was such an incredible example of teamwork,” marveled Lori Saint, Weston Centre General Manager. “It was so rewarding to see it all come together.”

The evening was particularly rewarding for Paige Daniel and Ashley Sedgwick, two Culinary Management students who jumped at the chance to take part in the popular event. Both were given the unique opportunity to introduce different courses of the meal to the eager attendees, describing each menu item in delectable detail.

“Harvest Dinner is so fantastic for bringing together students and faculty”, exclaimed Sedgwick, who helped out in the kitchen. Being part of the Harvest Dinner was an opportunity for the student to further immerse herself in the field-to-fork-to-field philosophy of DC and the Weston Centre, which she enthusiastically supports.

“The focus on sustainability we have here is something that really speaks to me personally,” she said. “Zero waste and sustainability is super cool and I love learning about it.”

For Daniel, who interacted directly with the guests as a server, the highlight was seeing the happiness and satisfaction on their faces.

“The atmosphere was beautiful,” said Daniel. “I was very thankful to be part of an amazing event and see it come to fruition.”

Weston Centre Interim Service Manager Megan Simmons had a unique perspective on the event, having taken part in it during her time as a DC student. The Event Management alumna came full circle by overseeing the front-of-house operations at this year’s dinner, working with current DC students to ensure everything went off without a hitch.

“It’s a good demonstration of how everything works together, and gaining that experience of accomplishing a shared goal is really valuable,” she said. “Coaching the future generation of hospitality and event professionals has been an absolute honour.”

Overcome the fear of messing up: Durham College AI Hub course for executives helps address barriers to businesses adopting AI

When it comes to adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI), businesses have two fears: missing out and messing up.

To tackle that second fear—messing up— and ensure that businesses don’t miss out on the transformative power of AI, Durham College’s AI Hub has partnered with the Council of Canadian Innovators to launch the AI Guide Program. The innovative program is a six-week intensive executive development program for non-technical professionals in Canada’s business and innovation sectors, including leaders in HR, sales, operations and public affairs.

“One of the things that was coming up again and again with companies and individuals was this trepidation around adopting AI in a responsible way,” explains AI Hub Senior Manager Natalie Arthurs. “These sticky issues of governance, responsible AI ethics, how data is being used, those are the issues that a lot of non-technical leaders and executives grapple with and it’s creating an impediment to moving forward with AI.”

Dr. Priyamvada Tripathi, a DC faculty member who teaches AI and data analytics, is the lead instructor for the program. She explains the 90-minute online sessions will feature a series of industry guest speakers who will bring practical scenarios to the table.

“We’re getting real-world perspectives and the guest speakers have the experience of how AI is being implemented, what are the road blocks to adoption and how to balance all the concerns about AI with innovation,” said Tripathi.

That means the course will focus on practicalities and business concerns like key performance indicators and value generation.

“How do you balance all that, how do you remain ethical while not losing out on the race to adopt AI,” she said. “Especially for us Canadians, how do we stay competitive while maintaining our core values?”

The program targets non-technical leaders because in many cases they are the people making overarching decisions for businesses.

“We’re helping address the fear of messing up component here by giving people that literacy, by giving them hands-on, real-world case studies and session leaders who have been there, done that,” Arthurs adds.

The AI Guide Program runs between October 23 and November 27. Registration closes October 13.

Durham College recognizing Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with events, initiatives

Durham College (DC) is committed to reconciliation, which requires genuine efforts to address the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and communities. Education plays a pivotal role in this process.

Leading up to and on September 30 – Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – there will be a number of events and initiatives presented by the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC). By taking part, DC students and employees will learn more about the history of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and take meaningful steps towards reconciliation.

“Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation are incredibly important because they remind us of the ongoing impact of colonialism and the need for healing and understanding,” said Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director, Indigenous Initiatives and a member of Walpole Island First Nation. “These days provide opportunities to honour the survivors of residential schools and reflect on the history of these institutions. They also encourage us to take concrete steps toward reconciliation, both as individuals and as a community.”

Scheduled Events

Orange Shirt Display
Orange shirts will be on display, with information to help our community learn more about the history and meaning of this day. You can also express your support by purchasing an orange shirt at one of the Campus Stores.
Date: September 23 to 30
Location: Oshawa (The PIT) and Whitby (Don Lovisa Building atrium)

‘Healing Through Food’ Panel Discussion
Join us for a panel discussion with two Indigenous Chefs on the healing properties of food within the Indigenous context. All are welcome to attend.
Date: Tuesday, September 24, 2:30 – 4 p.m.
Location: Whitby Campus, W. Galen Weston Centre for Food, Room B101
Register now.

FPIC ‘Reawakening’ Ceremony
Elder Gerard Sagassige will return to the space he named Suswaaning Endaajig (Nest Away from Home) for a Reawakening Ceremony. Light refreshments will be provided.
Date: Friday, September 27, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Centre for Collaborative Education, Room 141
Register now.

Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Join us to honour this important day with guest speakers and opportunities for education and reflection. The event will start indoors and end with a gathering at the Weeping Willow Tree in the Naanaagide’endamowin Courtyard. In the evening, the DC sign (Oshawa) and Don Lovisa Building atrium (Whitby) will be illuminated in orange.
Date: Monday, September 30, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Location: Centre for Innovation and Research, Room 102, and First Peoples Indigenous Centre (CFCE Room 141)
Register now.

The Durham College Library has also curated a collection on Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge, heritage, rights, and histories. More resources are available here.

Durham College study examines impact of exercise on physical and mental health for forensic patients

Researchers at Durham College (DC) are partnering with Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences and the Abilities Centre in Whitby to examine barriers to exercise for forensic patients and how community-based exercise could impact their physical and mental health.

Dr. Erin Dancey, a faculty member in DC’s Fitness and Health Promotion program, is leading the three-year project through the college’s Social Impact Hub. The research is made possible through a $350,000 College and Community Social Innovation Fund (CCSIF) grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CHIR) which was announced on September 13.

“We’re interested in the impact of exercise on not just physical fitness, but as a means to increase social connections and improve mental health and wellness and quality of life,” said Dancey. “We met with Ontario Shores and they were already trying to think about ways to get their patients exercising more and the Abilities Centre is close and aims to provide an inclusive space for all individuals in the community, so it all came together.”

The overall goal of the project is to develop exercised-based treatment options that will reduce health disparities and inequities experienced by Canada’s forensic patient population, people who have been found not criminally responsible for an offence or unfit to stand trial by the courts due to mental illness and are hospitalized and receiving treatment to improve their mental health.

Forensic patients with mental illness are more sedentary, have reduced levels of physical fitness and are at a higher risk for obesity as compared to the general population for several reasons including the impact of medication on metabolic health and barriers to exercise while accessing care in a hospital setting.

While other studies have demonstrated the benefits of exercise for people living with mental illness, there is limited research focusing specifically on forensic patients.

“It’s interesting, important research for patients in an institutional, hospitalized setting because it has the potential to improve their quality of life,” said Dancey.

The first phase of the research project will look at barriers to engaging in community-based exercise for patients receiving forensic psychiatry care at Ontario Shores. In the second phase, patients participating in the study will engage in community-based exercise at the Abilities Centre and the researchers will investigate the impact on physical fitness, quality of life, social isolation, mental health and sleep quality.

At DC, Dancey will work with Faculty of Heath Sciences faculty member Dr. David Copithorne and Jennifer Bedford, a faculty member in the Faculty of Media, Art and Design. The project also comes with experiential learning opportunities for students from both faculties.

“We will hire Fitness and Health Promotion students as well as Community Mental Health students as research assistants so they will gain experience with the research ethics approval process, data collection, fitness assessment and prescription, and working with a vulnerable population and community partners,” said Dancey. “We’re also going to hire Media, Art and Design students to help create a video outlining the project findings as well as infographics that will share our results with a broader audience.”

Benefits of the research may include creating a low-cost treatment for people living with mental illness that can be used in combination with medication which could be expanded to patients in the general psychiatry and outpatient clinics at Ontario Shores and elsewhere. It also provides the Abilities Centre and other similar community recreation centres with new tools and ways to support a marginalized group, people living with mental illness.

Funding allows Social Impact Hub to study and improve mental health care for Black communities

Researchers at Durham College’s (DC) Social Impact Hub are launching a project to study and improve mental health care for Black communities thanks to a $360,000 federal grant.

Announced on September 13, the grant is from the College and Community Social Innovation Fund (CCSIF), funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).

According to the Mental Health Commission of Canada (2022), 35.4% of Black Canadians experience significant psychological distress, but only 1.2% of them seek the aid of mental health services. With that in mind, ‘Bridging the gap: Developing Culturally Responsive Mental Health Care with and for Black Communities’ will explore the experiences of Black patients and frontline workers in emergency, acute and community mental health settings. Beginning this fall, researchers will collect data and work with members of the Black community, caregivers, and frontline workers to co-create resources from a culturally responsive lens.

The project will be led by researchers from the Social Impact Hub with a team consisting of Black community-members and academics.

“This is a very important project,” said Dr. Crystal Garvey, lead researcher and a faculty member in DC’s Nursing – Collaborative Bachelor of Science (BScN) program. “Historically, when decisions are being made for members of the community who have to access the healthcare system, they’re made by leaders and experts who are not representative of the groups they are serving or making decisions for. What makes this research different is that it is a co-creation piece, where those who actually use the services and are navigating the system will now have a say in what bridging the gaps look like”

The Social Impact Hub is partnering on the project with the Health Research Council for People of African Descent, the Regional Municipality of Durham, Black Health Alliance and Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences.

DC students will have the opportunity to contribute to the new initiative, with three being hired each year. Two students from the Faculty of Health Sciences will provide support as research assistants, while one student from a Media, Art and Design program will assist in documenting and promoting the project.

“We have some really amazing stakeholders that are going to be engaged in this project. I am deeply grateful that they are ready and willing to listen, and that’s the first step to changing any narrative,” said Dr. Garvey. “I am so appreciative and humbled by our community leaders who are involved in this project. They are being intentional with giving space to voices who historically have been ignored or silenced. Because of this project we all now have a seat at the table to engage in sincere discourse to create the authentic change needed.”

Dr. Garvey and her fellow researchers hope to gain the trust of the Black community and encourage them to seek mental health support before crisis hits.

“I hope that we can be the community that breaks down barriers and makes sure that mental health care is being received equitably and fairly,” she said. “This research, in collaboration with community support and involvement, is going to change the status quo and belief systems associated with mental health.”

“I say with all confidence that it’s going to be a game changer.”

Bistro ’67 nominated for Business Excellence Award from Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce

Durham College’s (DC) on-campus restaurant, Bistro ’67, has been nominated for a Business Excellence Award from the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce in the category of sustainability.

Each year, the awards recognize organizations that excel in all areas of business and leadership within the community. DC was previously recognized in 2020, when the AI Hub and W. Galen Weston Centre for Food (CFF) received awards for innovation and sustainability, respectively.

This year’s winners will be announced on Tuesday, September 24.

“We make a really great effort towards sustainability initiatives in Bistro ’67 and throughout the CFF,” said Lori Saint, General Manager of the CFF. “We’re very appreciative that all of our efforts have been noticed.”

She pointed to Bistro’s Feast On™ and LEAF certifications as examples of their commitment to sustainable and locally produced dining.

“We couldn’t be any more local for a lot of our products because they’re coming from the urban farm we have here on campus,” she noted.

She also cited their zero waste initiatives. This year, Bistro ’67 has been focused on finding new uses for food waste. In one such case, vegetable scraps from the Bistro kitchen are dried, frozen and turned into a powdered broth for sale in The Pantry.

“Sustainability is something that we focus on every single day and it’s very rewarding to be recognized for that.”