Design-Build Contractor Secures Support for New Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology at Durham College

Durham College (DC) is pleased to recognize and thank Ball Construction for its generous donation in support of the college’s Phase IV Whitby campus expansion initiative. As design-build contractor for DC’s new Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology (CSTT), Ball Construction went above and beyond building the new facility. “This was a special opportunity for us,” said Jason Ball, president, Ball Construction. “It isn’t every day that we work on a project that fits so well with our own line of business and helps address a significant challenge facing our sector.” The shortage of skilled trades talent is nation-wide, and with three of Canada’s most significant infrastructure projects underway in the GTA, demand for this expertise is particularly strong across southern Ontario. Applicant demand for space in skilled trades programs is also very strong, and DC’s 60,300-square-foot addition is designed to help meet these demands. On-schedule to open in September 2021, the CSTT will allow 750 more apprentices and students to study construction and industrial skilled trades and professions each year.

“Ball Construction likes to give back to the communities in which it works, and we encourage our trade contractors to do so too,” said Ball. “Given the purpose of this building, it wasn’t hard to inspire participation, and I thank all of our trade contractors who contributed to the Building for Skills campaign.” Ball Construction’s gift was matched by Birnie Electric, C&H Fire Suppression Systems and Insight Technologies. To date, almost 80% of trade contractors have donated, collectively raising $300,000.

DC’s Building for Skills campaign has now raised $5.7 million towards its $10 million goal, thanks to municipal and regional government, businesses, unions, organizations and individuals.

“We’re so grateful for Ball Construction’s support, their outreach on our behalf, and the support of their trade contractors” said DC President Don Lovisa. “They’re building us great new space to support increased enrolment in our plumbing, elevating devices, electrical and millwright programs. Increased enrolment in our other construction and industrial skilled trades programs will be made possible through renovation of the existing space these programs free up when they move.”

For more information on how to support the Building for Skills campaign, please contact Jennifer.Clark@durhamcollege.ca.