Post-secondary schools in Oshawa, Ontario to receive $9 million boost for infrastructure upgrades

Post-secondary institutions in north Oshawa are welcoming an investment of more than $9 million to upgrade learning facilities at Durham College and Ontario Tech University.

Durham College will receive an investment of $5,472,600 to support critical infrastructure upgrades, including a roof replacement, boiler replacement, and HVAC improvements.

It will also expand training capacity and enhance skilled trades and technology education through workforce-ready welding technologies, new equipment for Carpentry and Construction programs (such as ladders, clamps, sanders, and routers), and the addition of an autoclave to support Biotechnology and Environmental Technology programs.

“The Ontario government’s investment in Durham College will have a direct and meaningful impact on our students and communities, strengthening our ability to support sectors vital to the province’s economic growth,” said Durham College President Dr. Elaine Popp. “This funding ensures learners are training in state-of-the-art facilities with industry-standard equipment, preparing them to be workforce-ready on day one.”

Ontario Tech University will receive $3,574,100 to support facility upgrades, including a Building Automation System upgrade, HVAC replacement and the installation of a new heat pump. It will also enable the development of a new Engineering Training Lab, expanding hands-on learning opportunities and strengthening skills training for students.

Ontario Tech President Dr. Steven Murphy said the investment will provide a “meaningful boost” that will help Ontario Tech University continue to deliver in-demand STEM education.

“By renewing critical infrastructure and expanding our first-class engineering facilities for students, this funding will expand our hands-on training labs and strengthen the learning experience that our job ready graduates receive while we prepare them for Ontario’s future workforce needs.”

The investment is part of the government’s $242 million plan to upgrade classrooms and equipment at publicly funded colleges and universities across the province. Institutions can use the funding for major building systems upgrades, heating and ventilating system upgrades, as well as mechanical and electrical system upgrades. The funds can also be used to buy educational tools, such as modernized computers and software for teaching purposes, specialized equipment, or machinery for use in labs, shops and classrooms. As a shared responsibility, part of the capital infrastructure program requires colleges and universities to make matching contributions.

“In the face of economic uncertainty, Ontario’s world-class colleges and universities are integral to building and protecting Ontario’s future workforce,” said Ontario Colleges and Universities Minister Nolan Quinn. “Through this investment, (we) are ensuring that students have the modern tools and facilities they need to stay on the cutting edge of our critical industries in their future careers.”

Whitby MPP Lorne Coe said the funding will strengthen the Region of Durham’s pipeline of highly skilled workers by ensuring students have access to the latest equipment and state-of-the-art learning spaces to learn the skills they need for good-paying jobs after graduation.

“By upgrading classrooms, modernizing equipment, and expanding hands-on training opportunities, our government is ensuring local students graduate with the skills and experience needed to succeed in in-demand fields,” Coe said. “This funding will strengthen our regional workforce, support economic growth, and help protect Ontario’s future.”

The Ontario government is investing more than $2 billion in capital grants for colleges and universities by modernizing facilities with upgraded technology, critical repairs and improved energy efficiency through three programs:

• The Facilities Renewal Program provides annual funding to help colleges and universities renew and modernize their campuses by repairing and renovating existing facilities, including major building systems upgrades, roof repairs, heating and ventilating system upgrades, and mechanical and electrical system upgrades.
• The College Equipment Renewal Fund provides annual funding to help colleges buy and renew instructional equipment and learning resources, such as specialized equipment, machinery or tools for use in labs, shops and classrooms.
• The Training Equipment and Renewal Fund provides annual funding to help universities buy state-of-the-art equipment that supports in-person or virtual learning, helps to meet industry or business standards, or supports enrolment growth.