OPG renews support for Durham College, Ontario Tech

Oshawa, ON – Ontario Power Generation (OPG) will continue its decade-long collaboration with Durham College (DC) and Ontario Tech University through a new $5-million investment.

The funding will assist in recruiting and retaining students—including those currently under-represented in the industry, such as women and Indigenous people—to build a diverse population of potential employees for the energy sector in skilled trades, science, engineering and technology. Much of this will focus on technology development in the energy sector for climate change initiatives, including:

• Electrification, particularly in the transportation sector
• New nuclear, including small modular reactors
• Renewable generation projects

The funding will be provided in annual installments over five years.

The partnership also focuses on research and development to support OPG’s Climate Change Plan, as well as digital and data innovation including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, augmented and virtual reality.

Quick facts

• The three partners have long collaborated to meet the need for career-ready energy sector workers and provide training opportunities to OPG employees to build skills through industry-related college and university programs.
• A recent donation through OPG’s Centre for Canadian Nuclear Sustainability supported construction of DC’s new Centre for Skilled Trades and Technology at its Whitby campus and highlights OPG’s ongoing commitment to the development of skilled trades and training.
• OPG has worked with Ontario Tech to assist the university in establishing industry-responsive and market-driven academic programs, including micro-credentials and upskilling opportunities.
• Under the terms of the partnership, the college and university will work together on the implementation of bridging programs between the two institutions to produce graduates with a greater range of technical skills and knowledge.

Quotes

“It’s important for us to invest in the next generation of talent to help power Ontario’s energy workforce. This is a dynamic time for the energy industry, as we move toward electrification and efficient economy-wide decarbonization. We know this partnership will ensure the right people with the right skills are ready to be the generation to power the future to meet Ontario’s increasing electricity needs.”

-Ken Hartwick, OPG President and CEO

“As a leader in post-secondary trades and technology education, we are preparing our students to be career-ready as they pursue a future in highly specialized sectors that are facing a critical labour shortage. Continuing our partnership with OPG will support innovative capital projects that enhance our training facilities, as well as provide vital financial support for traditionally underrepresented groups in skilled trades, technology and science careers.”

-Don Lovisa, President, Durham College

“Ontario Tech University deeply values its foundational partnership with OPG, whose investment in our innovative programs and high-tech research infrastructure helps prepare career-ready graduates who excel in the changing energy landscape. The partnership has always been a natural fit, with energy making up the university’s greatest applied research strength. We look forward to charting a bold energy future for Canada with OPG in the years to come.”

-Dr. Steven Murphy, President and Vice-Chancellor, Ontario Tech University

About OPG

As a global climate change leader and the largest, most diverse electricity generator in the province, OPG and its family of companies are helping lead the charge to a post-carbon economy.

About Durham College

Durham College enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need. DC offers over 11,400 full-time students access to more than 140 post-secondary programs, including four honours bachelor degrees and nine apprenticeship programs, at its Whitby and Oshawa campuses.

About Ontario Tech University

A modern, forwarding-thinking university, Ontario Tech advances the discovery and application of knowledge to accelerate economic growth, regional development and social innovation. We inspire and equip our students and our graduates to make a positive impact in a tech-focused world. For us, it’s not only about developing the next tech breakthrough. Understanding and integrating the social and ethical implications of technology differentiates us as university. Learn more at ontariotechu.ca.