Provincial commitment of nearly $1.3 million will advance the growth of skilled trades training at Durham College

Durham College (DC) is expanding apprenticeship training opportunities and enhancing hands-on learning through a provincial investment to support skilled trades education.

The announcement was made at DC’s Whitby campus today by the Honourable Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance and MPP for Pickering-Uxbridge, alongside the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, Acting Minister of Infrastructure, and MPP for Durham, and Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. They were joined by DC leadership, Board members, employees and students.

Totalling $1.28 million, the contribution was provided through Ontario’s Apprenticeship Capital Grant program and will strengthen apprentice training and modernize learning environments at DC.

This funding will enable the purchase of industry-standard equipment and upgrades to instructional spaces, including electronic system trainers, a scissor lift, an alignment machine and tool storage cabinets. Facility modifications will also allow DC to expand training capacity in in-demand sectors.

“The Ontario government’s investment in Durham College will have a significant impact on our students, apprentices and communities, increasing our capacity to deliver high-quality skilled trades training and reinforcing our ability to support key sectors that drive economic growth,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President of DC. “We value our ongoing partnership with the province and its continued support in helping Durham College respond to labour market needs in Durham Region and across Ontario.” 

The investment will directly benefit apprenticeship and trades programs related to cook, electrical and welding disciplines while strengthening DC’s ability to deliver practical, industry-aligned education in areas experiencing strong labour market demand.

Ontario is expected to require an additional 400,000 skilled trades workers over the next decade to meet housing, infrastructure, energy, manufacturing and transportation projects across the province.

At the event, Tania Clerac, Executive Dean, Faculty of Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship, Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology, and Faculty of Hospitality and Horticultural Science, highlighted the importance of broadening pathways to careers in the trades.

“What makes this announcement especially important is the focus on increasing access and participation for women, Indigenous peoples, and newcomers — groups that have historically been underrepresented in the skilled trades,” said Clerac. “By reducing barriers and creating clear pathways into apprenticeship and employment, we are helping to build a more inclusive, diverse, and resilient workforce.”

DC continues to work closely with government and industry partners to prepare graduates for high-demand careers through applied learning and industry-connected training experiences.

Learn more about skilled trades and apprenticeship training at Durham College.