Ontario Construction News staff writer
Durham College is expanding apprenticeship training opportunities and hands-on learning with new provincial funding to support skilled trades education.
The $1.28 million announcement was made at DC’s Whitby campus, through Ontario’s Apprenticeship Capital Grant program and will strengthen apprentice training with 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 Durham College. “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 the college’s ability to offer “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.
“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 Tania Clerac, executive dean, faculty of skilled trades and apprenticeship. “By reducing barriers and creating clear pathways into apprenticeship and employment, we are helping to build a more inclusive, diverse, and resilient workforce.”
Click the link to learn more about skilled trades and apprenticeship training at Durham College.
