As the demand for electric and hybrid vehicles continue to rise, so does the need for skilled technicians capable of maintaining and servicing these advanced systems. Responding to this industry need, Durham College (DC) has launched its new Electric Drive Vehicle Technician (EDVT) program, one of only two offered in Ontario. With the automotive sector rapidly transitioning to greener technologies, DC’s program is designed to equip graduates with the expertise needed to thrive while meeting the province’s demand for electric vehicle (EV) professionals.

“With the automotive sector undergoing a significant transformation, Durham College is committed to offering new programs that align with industry trends and provide students with career-ready skills,” says Dr. Rebecca Milburn, Executive Dean, Faculty of Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship and Principal at Whitby campus. “What makes the Electric Drive Vehicle Technician program unique is its focus on both traditional mechanical expertise and the specialized knowledge required for electric and hybrid vehicle systems. Our graduates will be well-positioned to succeed in this growing field.”

For more than two decades, Canada’s clean transport industry has been the fastest-growing industry within the country’s clean energy sector. With significant investments, totaling over $17 billion since 2020, the Canadian and Ontario governments have prioritized EV manufacturing, positioning Ontario as a future hub for this innovative industry.

Emerging professionals in DC’s EDVT program will build on their understanding of conventional vehicle systems inside the college’s state-of-the-art Vanhaverbeke Family EV Training Centre and develop expertise in diagnosing and servicing electric and hybrid vehicles from various manufacturers. Homer Manlangit, Faculty member, says the two-year diploma program is specifically designed to equip learners with the technical knowledge required to succeed.

“To ensure their success post-graduation, students will work with the latest tools and technologies used in the industry, while gaining practical experience in areas such as high-voltage electrical systems, electric drivetrains, and battery management,” he says. “The program also covers the fundamentals of hybrid vehicles, and we teach students how to service and maintain these increasingly popular vehicles, which combine traditional internal combustion engines with electric power.”

In addition to technical skills, students will develop critical problem-solving abilities by working on real-world scenarios in state-of-the-art shops, simulating the complexities they’ll encounter in the field. By the time they graduate, they’ll have completed a 56-hour EV capstone project that fuses learning from previous coursework in electric and hybrid vehicle technology, offering a hands-on, project-based experience.

DC’s EDVT program reflects the college’s commitment to sustainability and remaining future focused as an industry leader and is currently accepting applicants for September 2025. Those interested in creating a greener future and launching a career in this in-demand field are encouraged to apply online today.