School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology

School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology

School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology

School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology

School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology (START)

Welcome to the School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology (START) website! Here you can explore information about the different programs offered and the potential career opportunities available to you after completing your diploma.

Automotive Service Technician
A doctor in the automotive industry

Got a stalled engine, squeaky brakes or an annoying light on the dash that just won’t turn off? No matter how hard you wish these problems won’t fix themselves. Automotive technicians diagnose car problems to provide you with the best, most cost-effective solution, so you can get back on [...]

Construction and Hoisting Techniques
In only eight months, you can gain the theoretical and practical skills needed to work in the construction industry, particularly in the field of hoisting including the basics of crane (and other related equipment) safety, maintenance and operation. This includes the opportunity to gain hands-on skills on crane simulators and real […]
Construction Carpentry – Sustainable
In as little as 16 months, you can learn how to build new, energy efficient and environmentally responsible residential buildings; gain the knowledge required to perform a wide range of carpentry tasks; and obtain the skills required to upgrade existing buildings.
Electrical Technician – Instrumentation and Control
This program will focus on the skills required to install and maintain current industrial, electrical and electronic systems, including programmable logic controls, and enable you to develop troubleshooting and problem solving skills through theoretical and extensive hands-on training. Hands-on instruction will account for up to […]
Electrician – Construction and Maintenance and Electrican – Industrial
You flick a switch and a light comes on. But how?

People don’t think too much about it until the light doesn’t turn on and that is when somebody who knows how electrical systems work is called in. As an expert in installation and troubleshooting, you are able to offer light in a dark situation, [...]

Elevating Devices Mechanic
Get a career lift

Whether it’s a parent heading up the escalator at the shopping mall or a family riding to the top of the CN Tower, an elevating devices mechanic made it possible. An apprenticeship will give you skills and experience in circuits, electricity and hydraulics – plus so much more – so that [...]

Energy Audit Techniques
Energy auditors evaluate the building envelope, insulation levels, combustion appliances, window efficiency, hot water pipes, furnace, air conditioning and electrical motors that impact home and building maintenance, the environment and the perhaps most importantly – the utility bill. With knowledge in electricity, heating […]
Energy Management and Sustainable Building Technology
Communities across the province are working to become more energy efficient with Ontario Power Authority projecting the creation of 50,000 green jobs as a result of the Green Energy Act. Durham College’s Energy Management and Sustainable Building Technology program will prepare you to meet that demand by teaching the skills […]
Facilities Mechanic/Facilities Technician
A jack-of-all-trades

Air conditioning, plumbing, water treatment systems, grounds maintenance. You do it all! If something goes haywire, whether it’s in a residential, commercial or public building, this apprenticeship will provide you with the skills needed to take care of any job – big or small.

Start date varies.
Classroom fee: $400 to $500 per [...]

Gas Technician 2
This two-semester program focuses on specialized studies in the fields of natural gas and propane. The core curriculum is standardized and accredited by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA), the industry’s regulatory body. As a graduate, you will be eligible to challenge TSSA for certification as a Gas Technician 2, […]
General Machinist
Could bring the Tin Man to life

With the ability to read and understand blueprints, charts and tables, you can build almost anything. Whether it’s a washing machine or a man made out of tin, with the use of precision cutting equipment, a steady hand and strong attention to detail you will build things that [...]

Hairstylist
Lather, rinse, repeat

Bad hair days are no more thanks to the skills and techniques offered by hairstylists. They hold the secret to making your hair sleek and shiny, are able to give you a haircut fit for Hollywood and can make almost anybody a blonde! No matter how hard you try, it just [...]

Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Techniques (HVAC)
The core curriculum of this program is standardized and accredited by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA), the industry’s regulatory body. As a graduate, you will be eligible to challenge TSSA for Gas Technician 3 and Oil Burner Technician 3 certification as the theoretical and practical skills required to obtain […]
Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)
The word handyman is an understatement

With a collection of skills and tools needed for any job, millwrights diagnose and fix a variety of mechanical and technical problems.  Whether you need to install mechanical equipment in a power plant or read a diagram and determine the proper work procedure, this apprenticeship will make you the [...]

Mechanical Technician – Mechanical Maintenance and Control
This program will prepare you to become a maintenance mechanic or technician by exposing you to the manufacturing, production and maintenance needs of several different industries. You will develop skills in the theory and practice of machine fabrication and maintenance procedures with an emphasis on the installation, service […]
Mechanical Techniques – Industrial (online)
This monthly intake program is for individuals who intend to pursue a career as an industrial mechanic millwright. If you can’t attend college on a full-time basis but wish to prepare for a career change, its unique, online curriculum delivery will be of interest to you. Please note: You must have an Internet capable computer with [...]
Mechanical Techniques – Precision Machining/CNC
This one-year program offers excellent opportunities if you intend to pursue a career in computer numerically controlled (CNC) precision machining in the power generation, aerospace, renewable energy, medical equipment, tool and die or mould making industries. It will teach you the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in […]
Metal Fabricator (Fitter)
London Bridge won’t fall down on their watch

With knowledge and hands-on experience in pattern and template development, project planning and other necessarily skills, you will possess the ability to develop ways to ensure bridges stay up and buildings are built to last.

Start date varies.
Classroom fee: $400 to $500 per level due at [...]

Mobile Crane Operator (Branch I, 339A)
You can’t lift 16,000 pounds in the gym

You won’t be able to find a 16, 000-pound dumbbell at the gym but if lifting this much weight interests you, make it happen with a career in mobile crane operation. With a calm personality and a high regard for safety, this program will equip you with [...]

Motive Power Technician – Service and Management
This program will give you the skills and training required to pursue a variety of careers in the transportation and automotive fields. As a graduate, you will be prepared to enter the motive power trades with highly skilled trade qualifications and essential business communication, marketing and interpersonal skills. Successful […]
These professionals have rewarding and lucrative careers in an essential trade.
Avoid it all you want, the sink won’t fix itself

If your toilet won’t flush or your shower only has one temperature, who do you call? Plumbers understand the importance of having these problems fixed and have the expertise, skill and tools required to make repairs quickly and efficiently. These professionals have rewarding and lucrative [...]

Power Engineering Technician
As a power engineering technician, you will be an expert in energy conversion and have access to worldwide power engineering opportunities including overseeing and maintaining equipment involved in the process of heat generation and utilization. You will be introduced to all aspects of power plant operation with an emphasis […]
Precision Metal Fabricator
From concept to concrete

With all of the hundreds of metal pieces needed to make car parts, electronics and appliances, somebody with a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship is needed to take product concepts and create functioning items. You will use state-of-the-art equipment such as computer numerically controlled (CNC) punching, laser cutting and machining operations to [...]

Renewable Energy Technician
Renewable energy technicians are part of the rapidly growing field of renewable, sustainable and alternative energy solutions. You will receive a basic exposure to traditional energy consuming systems followed by a solid foundation in the operation of renewable energy systems including solar and wind power and ground source heat [...]
Small Engine Technician
No matter how small it is, an engine is an engine

Whether it’s a lawn that needs cutting, or a trip to the 18th hole, the machines that make these activates possible need to be inspected, repaired and serviced by a small engine technician who sees the value of an engine, no matter how small [...]

Tool and Die Maker
Putting the puzzle pieces together

Tool and die makers are skilled craftspeople who combine skills in reading blueprints and trade calculations—among other things – with hands-on experience to build and program the tools and machines used in sectors such as automotive and aircraft manufacturing. From the shop floor to the 100,000 feet in the air [...]

Trades Fundamentals – NEW
Do you want a career in the lucrative skilled trades industry but are not sure where to start? You will spend just eight months gaining exposure and experience in a variety of areas designed to help you choose a skilled trade or apprenticeship program. You will you obtain the solid foundation required to be successful in many [...]
Welder
Probably the only time you won’t want popcorn

A bad welding job can create a popcorn effect, which occurs when a torch causes metal to bounce off a weld. To avoid this, good welders must know the safest way to complete a job while paying attention to detail and possessing the strong technical knowledge of [...]

Welding Techniques
This two-semester program will prepare you to enter the workforce in entry-level employment as a welder, fitter or service technician. You may also continue your training as an apprentice. Graduates find employment in a variety of small and large organizations in this industry. With further training you may be involved in a […]
Check out our New Programs starting September 2012
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