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Launch your future at Durham College’s Fall Open House on November 9

The doors are open at Durham College (DC) for Fall Open House on Saturday November 9 creating opportunities for prospective students to explore 145+ career-driven programs, meet with faculty and to see state-of-the-art learning spaces including shops and labs.

Visitors can explore both the Oshawa campus at 2000 Simcoe St. N. and the Whitby campus at 1610 Champlain Ave. during Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Kaeli Caguicla, a first-year Mechanical Technician – Elevating Devices student, explains she found her path at a DC Open House last year.

With an interest in the skilled trades, Caguicla attended Open House at DC’s Whitby Campus and met with a faculty member from the program she wanted to pursue.

“It was very valuable, basically he just talked about how amazing the program was and how special it was,” she said, adding that she was interested to learn it was just one of two Elevating Devices programs in Ontario. “He seemed like he really enjoyed the program and highlighted the career options.”

Caguicla got her questions answered, learned more about the courses in the program and visited her future learning spaces. She also enjoyed the energy at Open House.

“It’s very welcoming and I really liked the atmosphere,” she said. “It was easy to get around and I thought the shop spaces were really cool.”

Now, she says she loves her program and looks forward to attending her classes.

Navjot Sehgal is a campus tour guide and marketing assistant at DC and he’ll be leading tours during Open House.

“One of things people get excited about on campus tours is seeing the facilities and services that we offer,” said Sehgal, who is also a student pursuing a Cybersecurity graduate certificate.

He said prospective students love seeing spaces like the fitness facilities and gyms at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre, the Esports Arena and learning about services like Career Development or Student Academic Learning Services (SALS) which provides free academic support to DC students.

“These are the kinds of things students really don’t know about before they come here,” Sehgal explains. “Durham College has a vast campus; you can’t really know about all the things we have to offer unless you visit us. There’s a lot to explore and you can get a first look at your campus life.”

He said Open House is a one-stop-shop event where they can meet the recruitment team, explore programs and meet faculty, take a tour and apply. DC will cover the $150 Ontario Colleges application fee for domestic students who visit an Apply Now room and submit their application.

Top reasons to register for and attend DC’s Fall Open House:

  • Meet with expert faculty to learn about our 145+ career-driven programs
  • Learn about DC’s supportive financial aid services, including over $5 million in available bursaries and scholarships
  • Find out about campus life and why our students love DC
  • Explore inspiring spaces with a guided campus tour
  • Apply for a DC program at the event and we will cover the $150 application fee for domestic students

Register to attend Fall Open House! Attendees who register will be entered into a draw to win a $5,000 Durham College tuition credit.

Schulich Builders Scholarships supports Durham College students in launching in-demand careers in the skilled trades

Ten Durham College (DC) students are pursuing rewarding careers in the skilled trades through life-changing support from the Schulich Builders Scholarships for the Skilled Trades.

Five students received $20,000 scholarships for one-year programs and five received $40,000 scholarships for two-year programs through The Schulich Foundation whose goal is to help to combat the shortage of skilled trades in the province and amplifying their importance and value to the community. Applications for a third round of scholarships will open to students in 2025.

Kaeli Caguicla, a Mechanical Technician – Elevating Devices, is among DC’s $40,000 winners.

She explains that her father originally encouraged her to pursue a career in accounting, but she took an automotive class in high school and found she loved being in the shop and working with her hands and on tangible problems with solutions.

Caguicla selected her program after attending a DC Open House and speaking with faculty in the Elevating Devices program as well as hearing from her neighbour who works in the industry and is passionate about it.

“It’s been a blast so far, I’ve never enjoyed school so much,” she said. “I truly look forward to most of my classes. I come to school early and leave late. It’s been really fun.”

Earning a Schulich Scholarship has made a big impact on her life covering not only her tuition costs, but other costs like books, food and GO Transit transportation fees for the Scarborough resident.

“I’ve known for a while I would have to pay for my own post-secondary schooling and for my whole life, for birthdays and Christmases, I never spent the money and saved it up into a bank account,” she explains. “But when I was in Grade 12, due to a family situation, all that money was gone so I was kind of stuck—I didn’t even have enough for one year—but then I found out about the Schulich Builders Scholarship and went through the process and received it and it really lifted the pressure off my shoulders, it was really great.”

She said that the scholarship also made it easier for her father and her grandparents to accept her decision to pursue a career in the skilled trades.

“They were proud of me because I won this scholarship.”

Josh Peacocke, a Power Engineering Techniques – Fourth Class student and $20,000 scholarship winner, said he always knew he was going to pursue a career in the trades but wasn’t sure which trade he wanted to pursue until attending a trades fair at the Tribute Communities Centre.

“They had a bunch of stands set up and they had a power engineering booth and I thought it was pretty neat,” he said.

Peacocke said he liked that the program was only a year and that he would receive nine-month reduction of qualifying experience time. After acquiring three months of experience and completing Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) exams, DC graduates may qualify for their Fourth-Class Operating Engineer Certificate of Qualification.

He said he heard about the scholarship through his guidance counsellor and was surprised when he found out he won.

“I just couldn’t believe it this happened to me,” he said. “I told my parents, my mom cried and she said this is life changing and my dad, he was pretty proud of me.”

Peacocke said there are several benefits to winning the scholarship.

“It’s a motivation to go to school and to finish everything and to do very well and I’m trying significantly harder because I know there’s money on the line. It was also very financially helpful paying for school, I didn’t know how much the books were. I paid a little over a $1,000 for my first semester books.”

Whitby campus Principal and Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship Executive Dean Rebecca Milburn congratulated the scholarship winners.

“The skilled trades are the backbone of our economy in key industries like construction, manufacturing, automotive, and infrastructure maintenance and development and I want to thank the Schulich Foundation for supporting our students as they prepare to enter these fields,” she said. “The trades sector continues to offer sustainable, high-demand career opportunities and it is critical that we develop the next generation of skilled workers who will drive innovation and growth in Ontario.”

Durham College 2024 Schulich Builders Scholarship $40,000 winners:

Devon Babich (Cobourg) – Welding Engineering Technician

Kaeli Caguicla (Scarborough) – Mechanical Technician – Elevating Devices

Blake Hutchinson (Oshawa) – Electrical Engineering Technician

Dimitre O’Reggio (Pickering) – Electrical Engineering Technician

Jarod Tieche (Pickering) – Mechanical Technician Millwright

Durham College 2024 Schulich Builders Scholarship $20,000 winners:

Tori Dimytruk (Whitby) – Trades Fundamentals

Amjad Masri (Oshawa) – Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Technician

Josh Peacocke (Brooklin) – Power Engineering Techniques – Fourth Class

Darcy Short (Whitby) – Trades Fundamentals

Tyler Webb (Toronto) – Trades Fundamentals

 

Durham College celebrates largest fall graduating cohort in school’s history

More than 2,200 graduates were invited to cross the stage this week at Durham College’s (DC) Fall Convocation, making it the largest fall graduating cohort in DC’s history. Skilled, career-ready graduates, ready to thrive in in-demand industries received their credential, including:

    “Convocation is an incredible event that serves as a time to celebrate our graduates’ achievements and the commencement of their next chapter,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President. “Whether they’re choosing to continue their studies, enter the workforce, or start their own business, the education they received is transformative and positively impacts their lives, their families, and our community.”

    Guest speakers at the ceremonies included:

    • Adam Ruppel, 2024 Alumni of Distinction award recipient, President of Chico Racing, and Co-founder of Drive Festival
    • Rachael Wraith, DC Alumna, Associate Vice President of Strategic Communications at Global Public Affairs

    During the afternoon ceremony on October 29, the college also recognized Don Lovisa, past DC President, with the honorary designation of President Emeritus in recognition of his many years of outstanding service to DC students, employees, and the community.

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

    Office of Research Services, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) hosts impactful event

    Durham College’s (DC) Office of Research Services, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) opened its doors for an exciting event last week.

    The ORSIE Impact Expo on Friday, October 25 invited industry, business and community partners to explore and celebrate the innovative work they’re doing at DC.

    Close to 150 visitors filled the Centre for Innovation and Research to discover DC’s hub for research and development, new products, processes and services, and experiential learning. They also explored its four applied research centres, including the AI Hub, Centre for Cybersecurity Innovation, Mixed Reality Capture Studio and the Social Impact Hub, as well as the Institutional Research Team and the Experiential Learning Hub. The Centre for Craft Brewing Innovation didn’t miss out on the fun, travelling from the Whitby campus to bring samples of their non-alcoholic products.

    DC’s Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research, Debbie McKee Demczyk was proud to welcome so many attendees to the event.

    “We’re so excited to share all of the cutting-edge ideas, products, and innovations that are being created right here,” she said.

    Another big draw for the crowd was world-renowned keynote speaker Hamza Khan. A bestselling author and proven educator, he kept the audience intrigued and entertained with his powerful presentation on leadership.

    Hailing from the Greater Toronto Area, and having worked with DC before, he was eager to take part in the special event.

    “This was a very meaningful opportunity for me. DC was one of my first clients when I started in the early 2010’s. They’re one of the first companies that said yes to me, that took a chance on me, and so this felt like coming home,” he said. “This is a community of students, staff, faculty, partners and friends, who are all galvanized around the same idea, which is leading the way.”

    Though he spoke for an hour, Khan arrived at a simple and powerful conclusion for his listeners.

    “Put people first.”

    With those words in their ears, visitors spent the rest of the morning exploring, enjoying interactive tradeshow displays, and networking with peers and DC leaders.

    It was an event that made DC proud, including President Dr. Elaine Popp.

    “We’re fostering an environment conducive to innovation and entrepreneurship, promoting adaptability and agility, and encouraging a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement,” she said. “I’m excited about the future of DC. We are determined to be a future-proof college and spearhead the transformation of education. ORSIE is leading that charge.”

    Police Foundations student wins $5,000 Durham College tuition credit

    First-year Police Foundations student James Fluri is the lucky winner of a $5,000 tuition credit from Durham College (DC).

    The annual contest is open to all Durham College applicants who register for campus events such as Open House, Program Information Nights and even scheduling a one-on-one appointment with the Start at DC team.

    Fluri was entered into the draw after taking a campus tour earlier this year and announced as the winner on October 28. The Oshawa resident said he was surprised and excited to win the draw.

    Durham College President Dr. Elaine Popp met with Fluri and his parents Jim and Christina Fluri and congratulated them.

    “Education really does transform lives, it gives you opportunities – doors will open that weren’t there before so consider it a gift and an investment in yourself and make the most of it,” said Popp.

    “I’m very excited about it,” said Fluri. “It’s going to help me go after what I want to do and I’m excited for this opportunity.”

    Christina Fluri said when they first found out their son won, they couldn’t believe it, but when the news sunk in, it felt great to know that the prize means he will save $5,000 in potential student debt.

    She said her son has wanted to be a police officer since he was four-years-old and she still has a picture of a police car he drew in kindergarten. Before starting at DC, he was an honour roll student in high school.

    “We’re proud of him,” she said.

    Fluri said he’s excited about pursuing his goal of becoming a police officer and he’s enjoying his program, which he started in September.

    “It’s something that really interests me and something that I’ve wanted to do for a long time so Police Foundations is a great way to get into that,” he said.

    Interested in exploring options for financing your education? Connect with the Financial Aid and Awards office can help. And if you’re attending DC next year, it could be your turn to win!

    Interior Decorating, Immigration Case Management among four new programs launched by Durham College

    Four new programs are launching at Durham College (DC) in fall 2025 to meet industry and community needs and ensure graduates are career-ready and in-demand.

    Applications are now open for the Electric Drive Vehicle Technician diploma program, Environmental Technician diploma program, Immigration Case Management graduate certificate and Interior Decorating diploma program.

    “At Durham College, our role is to ensure that we are preparing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to fill evolving and in-demand careers,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “Consulting with industry professionals and leaders is an important part of our rigorous program development process so we’re confident these new programs align with the expertise employers are seeking.”

    Demand in the immigration field, for example, has increased in recent years as Canada has welcomed millions of newcomers. DC is meeting the demand for legal support skills in the highly specialized area of immigration, refugee and citizenship law by launching the Immigration Case Management program – one of only two available at a public college in Canada.

    “Law firms are craving legal assistance,” said Ana Bernal, program coordinator for Immigration Case Management. “Immigration law firms, community centre and centres for that help newcomers are looking for people with specialized knowledge because employers are finding it difficult to train new employees in this complex field.”

    Explore all the new programs at DC:

    Electric Drive Vehicle Technician (EDVT) – This four-semester diploma program is one of only two in Ontario and meets the demand for technicians to service electric and hybrid vehicles. It’s focused on both traditional mechanical expertise and specialized EV knowledge with students training at DC’s state-of-the-art Vanhaverbeke Family EV Training Centre.

    Environmental Technician (EVTN) – Through this four-semester diploma program, students will train to play a key role in helping conserve Canada’s ecosystem and protecting the health of communities from environmental contaminants. They will learn to evaluate, monitor and control potential risks to the environment and public health and assist in environmental protection and sustainability efforts.

    Immigration Case Management (IMCM) – This two-semester graduate certificate empowers students with specialized knowledge and skills required to support people engaged in the immigration, refugee and citizenship process. Students acquire specialized legal skills aimed at supporting law practitioners, government agencies and community centres with immigration-related case load.

    Interior Decorating (INDR) – Students in this four-semester diploma program will explore the design process, space planning and decoration of both residential and commercial environments. They will learn to work with clients and tackle creative challenges to enhance quality of life through the curation of functional, accessible and beautiful environments.

    Connect with our Start at DC team today to explore these new programs and all of DC’s 145+ career-ready programs.

    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).