Durham College is receiving nearly $1.3 million in provincial funding to expand and modernize apprenticeship training programs through its Whitby-based Skills Training Centre.
The new Durham College skilled trades funding will support upgrades and expanded training opportunities for three high-demand skilled trades programs: Cook, Electrician Construction and Maintenance, and Welder.
According to provincial officials, the Whitby campus Skills Training Centre will receive $388,007 for the Cook program, $352,303 for Electrician Construction and Maintenance training, and $337,490 for Welder training as part of the investment.
College officials say the Durham College skilled trades funding will allow the institution to modernize facilities, purchase updated industry-standard equipment, and improve hands-on training opportunities for apprentices and students preparing for careers in Ontario’s growing skilled trades sector.
“The Ontario government’s investment in Durham College will have a significant impact on our students, apprentices and communities,” said Durham College President Dr. Elaine Popp. “This funding allows us to modernize our facilities and expand hands-on learning with industry-standard equipment.”
The funding is part of Ontario’s annual $29-million Apprenticeship Capital Grant program, which supports improvements to training facilities and equipment used in apprenticeship education across the province.
In addition to the main funding package, the province is also providing approximately $205,000 in additional support to enhance apprenticeship training capacity. The extra investment will fund new electronic system trainers, a scissor lift, alignment machines, and tool storage systems for students.
Officials say some facility modifications will also be completed through the Durham College skilled trades funding initiative, including relocating electrical training out of the automotive lab to create more space. The changes are expected to increase apprenticeship lab capacity from 20 to 40 students per session.
Whitby MPP Lorne Coe said the investment will help more Durham Region residents access training opportunities close to home while supporting employers facing skilled labour shortages.
“Ontario’s skilled trades are vital to our economy and offer meaningful and well-paying careers,” Coe stated. “These investments in Durham College will help more students in Whitby and across Durham Region access hands-on training for in-demand jobs.”
The Durham College skilled trades funding announcement comes as Ontario continues experiencing increasing demand for workers in construction, electrical trades, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors.
Provincial officials say strengthening apprenticeship and trades education is essential to addressing labour shortages and supporting long-term economic growth throughout Ontario.
Labour Minister David Piccini said investments like the Durham College skilled trades funding program are helping students gain stable career opportunities while ensuring businesses can find qualified workers to fill critical industry gaps.
Durham College officials say the funding will help improve workforce readiness while expanding opportunities for students entering high-demand skilled trades careers across Durham Region and Ontario.
