Durham Region teachers, co-op program coordinators and guidance counsellors all gathered at the Whitby Durham College Campus on November 20, 2009 to take part in an industry tour. They saw molten steel being poured and stood on the roof of the College to get a closer look at their new solar panels. It was an initiative to show teachers what opportunities are available to their students in Durham post-graduation.

“The pilot project was a partnership between the Durham Region Local Training Board, the Regional Municipality of Durham and the Whitby Chamber of Commerce. The groups thought the tour would be a good way to create a link between educator and industry”, said Heather McMillan, training board project officer.

Whitby Chamber of Commerce member, Christine Raynor said, “The half-day tour could be the launching point for future initiatives, such as having high school students do tours of local businesses so they can see first-hand what sectors are hiring. It’s all about educating our young people and providing opportunities for them to work here at home.”

Diane Hruska a local guidance counsellor said it was interesting to see the new ways Durham is preparing for the challenges of educating employable graduates.

To read more about what Durham College has in store for Durham Region please visit thier website.