Durham College officially launched a key component of the development project happening at its Whitby campus on October 12 when it officially opened two new on-site learning labs.

The labs, part of the $44 million, three-phase expansion that has been underway at the Whitby campus since 2009, are designed to demonstrate the many changes that have occurred in the building trades over the years. This includes the various methods being used to retrofit older homes as well as the energy-efficient technologies currently being used in the construction of newer homes.

The event saw close to 60 community leaders; business partners; faculty; staff; students; alumni; board members; and donors join Durham College President Don Lovisa, Town of Whitby Mayor Pat Perkins, Town of Whitby Councillor Ken Montague and Durham Custom Homes President Jeff Goldman for tours of the new learning labs. 

In addition, the college recognized the outstanding commitment of donors who contributed to the success of the project through gifts-in-kind, services and monetary donations with the unveiling of a recognition plaque, which will be displayed in the west wing of the Whitby campus.

Founded by Harry Goldman, Durham Custom Homes has been building quality homes in southern Ontario for more than 60 years. “My grandfather didn’t speak English very well but he had a simple philosophy when it came to home building,” said Goldman. “When constructing houses, he would say ‘build them good for the people’. These learning labs will teach students and future trades and construction workers this same concept so they too can learn ‘to build them good for the people’.”

Learning Lab 1, a new, high-efficiency green home built by Durham Custom Homes, features the latest in environmentally friendly technologies. It is being used by students studying in programs such as Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques; Plumbing Apprenticeship; Electrical Technician – Instrumentation and Control; and Electrical Techniques.

“As part of the overall plan to transform the Whitby campus to better serve students and secure meaningful jobs in the 21^st century an idea was born,” said David Chambers, associate vice-president, Office of Development, Durham College. “This idea was made possible through the generosity of community donors, businesses and trades people who stepped up to the challenge to bring the learning labs to life.”

Learning Lab 2, a 1940s era house with dated technology and wiring that was purchased by Durham Custom Homes then moved to the Whitby campus in January 2011, is enabling students to gain real-world experience in retrofitting older homes including an understanding of how to increase energy efficiency.

“I am honoured to have played a part in such an exciting project for the future of our community,” added Goldman.