Nearly 5,000 students will cross the stage next week at Durham College’s (DC) Spring Convocation and are prepared to enter high-priority fields including healthcare, skilled trades and information technology (IT).

In one of its largest graduating classes, more than 30 per cent are connected to these key career paths, underscoring the college’s commitment to being a future-focused institution and preparing career-ready graduates for rewarding jobs in in-demand fields.

“Our role at Durham College is to ensure the skills demanded by employers and those we are preparing for the workforce, are aligned,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic. “We play a vital role in addressing the shortage of skilled workers, contributing to Durham Region’s economic resilience and growth. Our graduates are prepared with the knowledge and hands-on experience to be the next generation of leaders across key sectors.”

The skilled trades sector has one of the highest labour shortages, according to the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s 2022 Business Confidence Survey, with the construction boom expected to require 72,000 new workers to build 1.5 million homes by 2031. Nearly 800 skilled trades students will graduate this June from DC’s signature skilled trades programs, helping to fuel growth in this critical industry.

Of the top 15 jobs most frequently advertised in the Greater Toronto Area, eight are IT-related, according to the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. As artificial intelligence shapes the demand for jobs and skills of tomorrow, DC responded with the development of new programs including Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence Analysis, Design and Implementation. Together, 240 students will graduate from these programs ready to take on careers in new and evolving fields.

To further meet critical demand and respond to employment gaps in the healthcare and social assistance sectors, DC has expanded enrolment in nursing, paramedic, personal support worker, and Early Childhood Education programs. Next week, more than 480 students will graduate from these programs, ready to enter the workforce, fill labour shortage gaps and support growth.

“Durham College offers an innovative and forward-thinking learning environment—one that thrives on collaboration and teamwork,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham. “We see it reflected in their graduates; individuals who are helping to shape local high-demand and high-priority industries. It’s no secret that Durham Region is known as a place where world-class talent comes to live and learn. And it’s the work of these individuals that have helped to earn this reputation. To propel this region into the global spotlight.”

Dr. Choi emphasized the importance of understanding labour patterns, as they’re essential to maintaining a forward-focused perspective. “DC ensures that students have access to the courses and programs they need to secure jobs employers need to fill – in this fast-changing world,” said Dr. Choi. “I am proud of our quality graduates who are ready to make local, national and global impact and DC’s continued efforts to meet the needs of our rapidly evolving workforce.”

Learn more about Durham College’s in-demand programs.