Ten skilled trades students awarded Schulich Builders Scholarships

For the third year, Schulich Builders Scholarships for Skilled Trades have made a profound difference in the lives of 10 Durham College (DC) students.

DC partners with the Schulich Foundation to award Schulich Builders Scholarships to students enrolling in full-time certificate and diploma programs in some of the most in-demand skilled trades fields. This year, five students received $20,000 scholarships for one-year programs and five received $40,000 scholarships for two-year programs, covering the cost of tuition, living expenses and tools.

For Electrical Engineering Technician student Stephen Pascoa, who hopes to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and become an electrician, the $40,000 scholarship is nothing short of a blessing.

“It has already allowed me to focus on my studies instead of worrying about how I was going to source more funding for my tuition, tools, books, and the travel costs to and from school,” he explained. “It also allows me to afford to pay for the equipment and medical help I need to mitigate my learning and physical disabilities.”

His classmate Dylan Martin is also preparing for a career in the electrical industry, and he believes the scholarship will have a similar effect for him.

“It will have a major impact on my studies and future plans by giving me financial support to be able to start a career in the trades,” he said. “It encourages and motivates me to keep on pursuing this career path and developing my skillset to become a qualified Master Electrician.”

This year’s recipients include:

Durham College 2025 Schulich Builders Scholarship winners:

Ziyad Aboo – Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques

Raheem Acheampong – Electrical Engineering Technician

Levi Fournier – Crane Operation, Rigging and Construction Techniques

Zameer Ghulam Nabi – Mechanical Techniques – Plumbing

Nevyn Kempers – Electrical Engineering Technician

Bradley Magyar – Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques

Connor Marmei – Electrical Techniques

Dylan Martin – Electrical Engineering Technician

Rishi Matheepan – Mechanical Technician – Millwright

Stephen Pascoa – Electrical Engineering Technician

Are you planning for a career in the skilled trades? Learn more about the Schulich Builders scholarship and how to apply. Applications open in March and close May 31.