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Durham College celebrates first graduating classes in four career-ready programs

As Convocation 2026 continues this week, Durham College (DC) is celebrating more than 7,200 graduates who are ready to take the next step in their careers and lives.

Among them are the first graduating classes from four programs – Honours Bachelor of Construction Management, Fire Prevention and Technology, Law Clerk, and Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Science (BHTN Pathway) – designed to help meet workforce needs across key sectors. Together, these first graduating classes mark an important milestone for programs developed to support student success and workforce readiness in high-demand fields.

“At Durham College, we are continuously collaborating to ensure our programs align with emerging industry needs and opportunities,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “These first graduating classes represent the strength of our academic programs, our partnerships with the communities we serve, and the dedication of students who chose to be at the forefront of an ever-evolving labour market. Their success will help shape the future of these professions and inspire the students who follow in their footsteps.”

  • Building the future of construction management

    The Honours Bachelor of Construction Management degree was developed to prepare graduates for leadership opportunities in one of Canada’s  rapidly growing and essential industries.

    Combining technical construction knowledge with business, project management, and leadership skills, the program gives students experience managing projects from planning through completion while working with industry-standard tools and technologies.

    Program Coordinator Sina Safinia said the program was designed to reflect the changing realities of the construction industry and the increasing demand for highly skilled professionals who can lead complex projects.

    “Our goal is to develop graduates who can bridge technical knowledge with effective project and team leadership,” said Safinia. “They leave the program ready to think critically, collaborate across disciplines and contribute to an industry that is being transformed by technology, sustainability and new approaches to project delivery. Through applied learning experiences, students gain hands-on exposure to industry tools and workflows.

    Graduates enter careers in project coordination, construction operations, estimating and site management, supporting a sector that continues to experience significant workforce demand across Ontario.

  • Supporting safer communities through fire prevention

    DC’s Fire Prevention and Technology program prepares graduates to support fire safety education, inspection and prevention initiatives in communities and workplaces.

    Through a combination of classroom instruction, applied learning, and industry-focused training, students gain knowledge in fire protection systems, fire code enforcement, building construction, and public education.

    “Fire prevention professionals play an essential role in community safety,” said Program Coordinator Randy Panesar. “Our graduates leave with the technical expertise and communication skills needed to educate the public, conduct inspections and contribute to safer environments in a wide range of settings.”

    Panesar added that the program helps students better understand the critical role prevention plays in protecting lives, property and communities.

    As municipalities, institutions, and industries continue to prioritize fire prevention and risk management, graduates are entering a field with strong demand and meaningful community impact.

  • Preparing graduates for legal careers

    The Law Clerk program provides students with the practical skills and legal knowledge needed to support lawyers and legal teams in a variety of professional settings.

    Students gain experience in areas such as legal research, document preparation, client communication, and litigation procedures while learning through hands-on applications that reflect the realities of today’s legal workplaces.

    Program Coordinator Nicole Doyle said the Law Clerk program emphasizes professionalism, adaptability, and practical experience to help graduates transition confidently into the legal field.

    “We wanted students to graduate with a strong understanding of both legal procedures and the professional responsibilities that come with working in the legal system,” she said. “Throughout the program, students build practical skills that allow them to contribute immediately in law firms, corporate legal departments, and other legal environments.”

    Graduates are well positioned for roles in legal offices, government agencies, corporate settings and other organizations that require knowledgeable legal support professionals.

  • Advancing understanding of human behaviour

    The Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Science degree equips students with interdisciplinary knowledge and research skills focused on human behaviour, mental health and social systems.

    The program combines theory, applied learning and research opportunities to help students better understand how behavioural science can support individuals, organizations and communities.

    “This program encourages students to think deeply about human behaviour and the factors that influence well-being, decision-making, and social interaction,” said Program Coordinator Sarah Drexler.

    Drexler said students in the Honours Bachelor of Behavioural Science develop strong analytical and interpersonal skills while exploring complex social and behavioural challenges. “Our graduates are leaving with valuable research, communication, and critical-thinking skills that will serve them in a wide range of careers and future educational pathways,” she added.

    Graduates are prepared to assume roles in community and social services, research, behavioural support, and related sectors, with many also choosing to pursue graduate or professional studies.

These first graduating classes represent another milestone in DC’s commitment to creating responsive, future-focused programs that prepare students for meaningful careers and the workforce opportunities of today and tomorrow.

Ontario government announces four-year investment of $151.5M for Durham College

Today, Durham College (DC) welcomed provincial representatives to its Oshawa campus for a funding announcement that will support expanded access to high-demand programming and address evolving labour market needs across Ontario. 

The investment of $151.5M, announced by the Honourable Todd McCarthy, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks and Acting Minister of Infrastructure; and Lorne Coe, MPP for Whitby, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, forms part of the government’s broader $6.4 billion commitment to post-secondary education. For DC, the funding represents an initial increase of $35M in year one, rising to $38.8M annually in years two through four. 

“We are grateful for this investment, which strengthens our ability to deliver high-quality, industry-aligned programming that prepares our students with the in-demand skills needed to thrive in today’s evolving workforce, while supporting the economic growth of Durham Region and Ontario,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President, Durham College. “This funding is a significant step toward ensuring Durham College’s long-term sustainability and continued student success.”  

The investment will also strengthen DC’s learning environments and expand access to innovative tools and technologies that help the college stay responsive to the needs of employers, communities, and learners. 

“Under the leadership of Premier Ford and Minister Quinn, our government is making critical investments to strengthen postsecondary education,” said Lorne Coe, MPP Whitby, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence, and Security. “This investment will help ensure that students at Durham College have access to high-quality education and the skills they need to succeed in today’s in-demand careers, while supporting continued economic growth across our region.” 

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.

Largest gift in Durham College’s history supports the future of sustainable urban agriculture

Durham College (DC) has received multimillion-dollar, long-term funding from the Barrett Family Foundation, marking the largest philanthropic gift in the college’s 59-year history.

This transformational donation will amplify the impact of the Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture (Barrett Centre), a community-based living lab where DC students and community members gain hands-on learning experiences through urban agriculture programming and operations. Learning opportunities will be enhanced through new programs, expanded scholarships and bursaries, and open educational resources. The purchase of new equipment and technologies will ensure graduates are career-ready, with the knowledge and skills to advance sustainable practices in the agriculture industry.

“We are deeply grateful for the Barrett Family Foundation’s continued investment in Durham College,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, President. “This support reflects the power of our partnership — creating future-focused learning environments for students while strengthening connections between education and the evolving needs of communities and industries. Together, we are making a meaningful impact on the future of sustainable urban agriculture in Durham Region and beyond.”

Since opening in 2023, the Barrett Centre has cultivated thriving partnerships rooted in a commitment to developing strong, locally sourced food supplies and educating future generations about nutrition and the importance of diverse food systems. To date, more than 37,000 community members have participated in workshops and activations, and over 9,000 pounds of food have been donated to local food banks and partners.

The Barrett Centre aims to be a benchmark institution helping to shape the future of sustainable food systems. This includes driving systems change across Canada and globally, empowering communities to replicate and scale the successful farming operations already established at the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm and the college’s Whitby campus.

“Durham College is a leader in urban agriculture education,” said the Barrett Family Foundation. “Our financial contribution reflects our shared belief that sustainable urban agriculture is a key factor to building more resilient, food secure communities while also creating rewarding career opportunities.”

The Barrett Centre currently features approximately two acres of productive market gardens and orchards, an apiary, season extending hoop houses, the Food Literacy Innovation Zone, and an accessible indoor hydroponic farm – the first of its kind at a Canadian post-secondary institution. From June to October, the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm is open to the public during its Farm Gate Sales, when community members are invited to tour the farm and purchase fresh, low-cost produce grown on-site. Visit the Barrett Centre website to learn more.

Hands-on discovery drives award-winning Science Rendezvous Durham

Pop bottle rockets, flowing water experiments and interactive demonstrations bring science to life at Science Rendezvous Durham.

Held each May on the Oshawa campus, the event transforms classrooms, labs and outdoor spaces into interactive learning environments where curiosity leads the way. Faculty, students and community partners work side by side to deliver hands-on activities that connect everyday experiences to real-world science.

“Science Rendezvous gives students the chance to take what they have learned in the classroom and share it with the community in a hands-on, meaningful way,” said Michael Jeffrey, Professor in the Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology at Durham College (DC) and a member of the organizing committee. “That opportunity helps build confidence, communication and leadership skills, while also creating a welcoming space for visitors to explore science. For families, events like this help make science feel approachable, fun and connected to everyday life, showing that STEM is something they can be curious about, participate in and enjoy together.”

That focus on engagement and accessibility is what earned DC and Ontario Tech University national recognition. The institutions were named recipients of the 2025 STEAM Big! Award from Science Rendezvous, which celebrates excellence in public science outreach.

The 2025 event featured a wide range of interactive experiences, including Sewer Science, Walking Water and Pop Bottle Rockets. Visitors also explored exhibits from local organizations and toured Ontario Tech’s Automotive Centre of Excellence Climatic Wind Tunnel, creating a full-day opportunity to discover how science shapes the world around them.

The event’s success reflects a strong partnership between DC and Ontario Tech, along with the contributions of employees and student volunteers across both institutions. For students, the experience offers valuable opportunities to develop public engagement and science communication skills that are increasingly sought after in STEM careers.

“Science Rendezvous reflects what’s possible when educational institutions and community partners come together with a shared vision,” said Kara Woods, Associate Dean in the Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology at DC. “This recognition acknowledges the collective commitment of our employees, students and partners, and highlights the importance of creating meaningful opportunities that foster curiosity, build essential skills and support future pathways in science and technology.”

Event returns in 2026

DC and Ontario Tech University will host the next Science Rendezvous Durham event on May 9, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with a Grand Finale from 2:30 to 3 p.m. The free event is open to all ages, and community members are invited to explore interactive exhibits, demonstrations and activities including tours of Durham College’s firefighting training facilities.

Learn more about Science Rendezvous Durham.

Durham College joins four post-secondary institutions to form Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium

Durham College (DC) has joined forces with four leading Ontario post-secondary institutions to help meet Canada’s growing clean energy and nuclear workforce demands. Together with Centennial College, Georgian College, Humber Polytechnic, and Ontario Tech University, DC has officially committed to signing a Memorandum of Understanding that will establish the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium (CCEW).

The consortium will collaborate on a co-ordinated workforce development strategy including the design, delivery and scaling of education and training programs to prepare learners for careers across the nuclear and renewable energy sectors. As Canada accelerates its transition to a clean energy economy, demand for skilled talent continues to grow. Industry estimates indicate that beginning in 2030, close to 40,000 new workers will be required across Canada’s nuclear sector to support new build, refurbishment, and the broader clean energy transition. The CCEW partnership represents a unified commitment to work closely with industry and government partners, aligning education and training with employer timelines and national priorities.

“Durham College is proud to partner with Centennial, Georgian, Humber, and Ontario Tech, in a coordinated new model of collaboration focused on shaping the future of Canada’s clean energy workforce,” said Dr. Elaine Popp, DC President. “Our strength at DC is in hands-on, career-ready education aligned with labour-market demands, and strong employer partnerships. Through the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium, we are building on that foundation — creating new opportunities for students, supporting innovation, and contributing to a resilient, future-ready workforce and ensuring Canada is well-positioned to lead in the transition to a clean energy future.”

Guided by an Industry Advisory Council, the consortium leverages the complementary strengths of each institution to support training and upskilling in priority areas including:

  • Skilled trades
  • Nuclear operations and Small Modular Reactor (SMR) support
  • Cybersecurity and digital infrastructure
  • Renewable energy systems
  • Microgrids and smart grids
  • Artificial intelligence applications in energy

While post-secondary program development can take years to move from concept to scale, the coordinated approach of the Canadian Clean Energy Workforce Consortium is intended to accelerate program development and responsiveness. This model enables faster program approvals, shared applied research opportunities for industry, and high-quality, experiential, job-ready learning for students.

Domestically, the partnership enables a coordinated approach to pursuing funding opportunities, while offering industry and learners a single, streamlined point of access. Credentials, ranging from micro-credentials to graduate programs, will help strengthen workforce pathways in Canada and support broader collaboration opportunities internationally. While CCEW partners are currently Ontario‑based, the consortium expects to expand to include institutions from across Canada.

Internationally, the consortium will develop a capacity building framework to support emerging nuclear economies including Indonesia and the Philippines, delivering workforce training programs in partnership with Canadian industry.

Sustainable strength: how DC students are reimagining concrete

Capstone projects are an important part of many programs at Durham College (DC), including Civil Engineering Technology, challenging students to apply their knowledge to complex problems while developing skills valued by employers. Through projects that often involve industry partners, students gain experience that supports a strong transition into their careers.

For Civil Engineering Technology students Amena Maududi, Alvaro Reyes and Rouaa Alaalyan, that meant tackling a timely question: how can concrete be made more sustainable? Their capstone project explored the use of coconut coir fibre as an alternative to traditional reinforcement materials, with a focus on improving concrete’s tensile and flexural performance while also reducing environmental impact.

“The problem we were trying to solve is that concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension, which can limit its durability in certain applications,” says Maududi. “We wanted to explore whether coconut coir fibre could improve tensile and flexural performance, while also offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional reinforcement materials.”

The team tested concrete mixes for compressive strength, flexural strength and workability. Samples were prepared at DC’s Shop Lab 5, then cured and tested at the City of Oshawa’s Materials Testing Lab, with additional testing conducted at York University’s Lassonde School of Engineering, with support from Dr. Dan Palermo, Professor and Deputy Provost, Markham Campus.

“Working across different labs taught us the value of collaboration and adaptability,” says Alaalyan. “We learned professional communication and project coordination skills that are essential in engineering practice.”

Their capstone work was guided by Dr. Pourang Ezzatfar, whose mentorship helped the students connect with external partners and refine their approach. “He challenged us to think critically, justify our decisions and continuously improve our work,” says Reyes. “That pushed us to approach the project with a more professional and analytical mindset.”

Maududi says the program played a key role in building both technical and professional confidence. “From the first year, we had opportunities to apply what we learned, work with industry-standard software like AutoCAD and Civil 3D, and strengthen our communication skills. Those experiences have prepared me to enter the workforce with confidence.”

All three students also completed field placements with the City of Oshawa’s Materials Testing Department, where they gained experience in both laboratory and site-based testing. That experience directly informed their capstone work and strengthened their understanding of quality assurance and materials performance in construction.

Looking ahead, Maududi hopes to pursue design-focused roles while continuing to explore sustainable engineering practices. “Capstone showed me how material choices and design decisions affect the environment. I want to contribute to projects that meet technical standards while promoting sustainability,” she says.

For prospective students, she adds that the capstone is one of the most rewarding parts of the program. “It’s a chance to take initiative, think independently, and bring together everything you’ve learned. Teamwork, communication, and problem-solving are key, and the experience is both challenging and memorable.”

The team’s work highlights not only new approaches to sustainable concrete, but also how DC prepares graduates for careers in the civil engineering field. Through applied learning and industry-connected experiences, students develop the skills needed to contribute from day one.

Learn more about the Civil Engineering Technology program at Durham College.

Colleges and Institutes Canada recognizes DC for excellence in Applied Research and Innovation

Durham College (DC) has been honoured by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) with their coveted Award of Excellence.

During today’s 2026 CICan Connections Conference in Ottawa, we received the Gold Program Excellence Award for Applied Research and Innovation.

The award recognizes the significant growth of DC’s research centres over the last five years, and the national recognition and industry partnerships our Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (ORSIE) continues to foster.

“We have five high-performing research centres that are really recognized in their fields,” said Debbie McKee Demczyk, Associate Vice President, Innovation and Research. “I am immensely proud and grateful to work with our team of superstars. These are people who care deeply about our community. They care about success and excellence, and they care about providing students with great opportunities to work on amazing projects.”

Each of DC’s research centres played a key role in earning this award, according to McKee Demczyk.

  • “The AI Hub is a Technology Access Centre – supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada – that has become very well known, not only locally, but also nationally. We’ve earned a lot of respect in that ecosystem.”
  • “The Mixed Reality Capture Studio is doing a fabulous job of carving out a space for themselves, and expanding virtual production capabilities with a new LED research stage to meet growing demand in a number of sectors. It’s really a centre of excellence.”
  • “There is tremendous promise in the work the Centre for Cybersecurity Innovation can do in support of the defense sector. We’re very strongly positioned to help organizations enter the defense space or become more prepared to be part of that defense supply chain.”
  • “The Centre for Craft Beverage Innovation is serving a lot of needs that are complementary to small business and entrepreneurship and the tourism focus of Durham Region.”
  • “The Social Impact Hub is making a difference right here in our community by collaborating with organizations to develop new approaches to serving their clients.”

Although the work of our research centres speaks for itself, there’s no denying the value of receiving an award from CICan.

“It’s really a stamp of credibility. Our clients know that we do good work, but when they hear that we’ve won this gold award, it’s just another way of recognizing that they made the right choice in coming to us. They take great pride in knowing that they’ve worked with a top of class research centre,” said McKee Demczyk.

That pride can be shared by everyone at DC.

“We’ve got a pretty awesome applied research enterprise here at Durham College.”

Spring Open House connects future students with opportunities at Durham College

For thousands of prospective students and their families, Saturday’s Spring Open House at Durham College (DC) was more than a campus visit. It was a chance to talk with DC experts, clarify program details, and explore the many pathways open to them.

Across both the Oshawa and Whitby campuses, visitors explored programs, asked thoughtful questions, and connected directly with the people who will guide them through their time at DC. Many prospective students took the next step right at the event, submitting applications in DC’s Apply Now room, while others left with a clearer sense of their options.

From specialized labs to collaborative learning spaces, guided tours gave guests a close look at where learning happens. Program areas brought their spaces to life with demonstrations and conversations that highlighted how DC’s programs align with the needs of today’s workforce and lead to strong career outcomes.

“Spring Open House is an important opportunity for future students to see themselves at Durham College,” said Dr. Jean Choi, Vice President, Academic and Students. “It allows them to explore their interests, meet our employees and experience firsthand the focused, welcoming environment that defines DC. We are proud to help students take the next steps toward a rewarding career.”

Beyond the classroom, visitors also learned about the services that help students thrive, including financial aid, wellness resources and career development. With more than $5 million available in scholarships, bursaries and awards, many left with a better understanding of how DC can help make their education more accessible.

The event drew future students at every stage of the process, some had already accepted their offers, others were still weighing their options, and some were simply planning ahead.

“I know that I want to go to college after I graduate from high school and even though that is a year away, I came to find out all I can about the skilled trades programs that are available,” said Dylan Rouse, a Grade 11 student. “Everyone here has been really helpful and answered all of my questions. It was easy to get all of the information I needed.”

Current students also played a key role throughout the day, sharing their experiences and offering practical insight into life at DC. Their perspectives added authenticity and gave visitors a grounded sense of what to expect.

This year’s Open House also featured Discover DC Degrees, an information session highlighting the college’s portfolio of degree programs and pathways. Visitors learned how DC degrees prepare graduates for in-demand careers and opportunities for graduate studies, and connected one-on-one with program experts and Transfer and Pathways advisors for personalized guidance.

Anyone who missed the event can register for DC’s upcoming Program Info Nights on May 12 and 13. These focused sessions allow future students to meet faculty and employees, explore specific programs in more detail, and get answers about admissions, pathways and next steps.

For many, Saturday was just the beginning, and an exciting first step toward a future at DC.

Durham College and University of the Highlands and Islands launch renewable energy training partnership

Durham College (DC) and the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) are launching a joint online Renewable Energy Project Management program this fall, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals as the renewable energy sector continues to expand.

The first initiative to emerge from a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed during a recent DC visit to UHI House in Inverness, the program will combine expertise from both institutions to help learners develop the project management knowledge and sector awareness needed to advance renewable energy projects.

“Partnering with UHI allows us to bring global expertise directly to learners in the renewable energy sector. There is an immediate need for training that equips professionals with the expertise required to drive sustainable energy projects forward, and this collaboration helps us meet that need,” says Robin Young, Managing Director, Business and Workforce Development, Corporate Training Services at DC.

The MOU builds on discussions between the two institutions over the past several months, with leaders exploring opportunities to collaborate on programs that address evolving industry needs.

During the visit, representatives from both institutions also met with academic and institutional leaders to explore broader opportunities for collaboration in training, education and industry engagement.

“UHI is committed to working with partners around the world to develop the skills needed for the energy transition. Our approach is based on sharing our experience while learning from others working in similar contexts internationally, helping to support new and innovative approaches to renewable energy development. This partnership with Durham College brings together international expertise to create learning opportunities that will help professionals plan and deliver renewable energy projects while supporting workforce development in the regions we serve here in the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Perthshire of Scotland and beyond,” added Vicki Nairn, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of the Highlands and Islands.

For DC, the agreement reflects a continued focus on developing international partnerships that connect industry, training, and education. Through engagement with global partners, the college will expand opportunities for learners while advancing workforce development in emerging sectors.