The Mohawk Award of Excellence is the highest honour for recognizing individual employees at the college. Three Awards of Excellence are presented annually to an outstanding employee from the faculty, support and administrative employee groups. This year's awards were presented at the President's Kick-Off on September 3.

Congratulations to this year's recipients, Karen Davis, Melissa Crowley and Grant Hodson.

Award of Excellence - Faculty: Karen Davis

Karen Davis, Early Childhood Education Professor and Program Coordinator, is the 2026 Award of Excellence recipient in the Faculty category.

Karen has dedicated nearly 25 years to the Early Childhood Education program at Mohawk College.

She has demonstrated innovation and leadership through the development of initiatives such as the ECE Career Expo, providing students with valuable networking opportunities, career pathways, and direct engagement with employers in the field. Her leadership was especially evident during the pandemic when she guided faculty and students through the transition to online learning with flexibility and creativity. Her impact is further showcased through a recent collaboration with the International Department in developing a training program for educational partners in Egypt.

Karen's active participation on local committees and collaborative initiatives have strengthened connections between the college and the early childhood education sector, ensuring that the program remains responsive to community needs and workforce demands.

Her ability to build and sustain strong partnerships with community organizations, educators, and industry professionals is a key contributor to the sustained success of the ECE program. Her exceptional leadership and steadfast dedication to Mohawk College make her a deserving recipient of the Mohawk Award of Excellence.

Congratulations, Karen!

Award of Excellence - Support Staff: Melissa Crowley

Melissa Crowley, Senior Accounts Receivable Specialist, is the 2026 Award of Excellence recipient in the Support Staff category.

Melissa has played a critical role in Mohawk College's Banner Business Transformation project, also known as the BBT. She consistently goes above and beyond to understand not only current-state processes, but also how Banner SaaS can be leveraged to improve operational efficiency in our future state. She thoroughly reviews requirements, asks thoughtful questions, and challenges assumptions to ensure Mohawk adopts best practices rather than simply replicating existing processes.

Melissa has become a trusted resource across multiple project streams, proactively collaborating with Finance, IT, Student Services, and project consultants to help develop effective solutions while keeping project deliverables on track.

These qualities are not limited to her work on the BBT project; they have been evident throughout her tenure in finance. Whether navigating unique funding arrangements or addressing unusual one-off situations, Melissa is always looking for opportunities to improve outcomes for all. Her dedication to Mohawk College makes her a deserving recipient of the Mohawk Award of Excellence.

Congratulations, Melissa!

Award of Excellence - Administrative Staff: Grant Hodson

Grant Hodson, Director, Corporate Reporting and Banner Business Transformation Project Lead, is the 2026 Award of Excellence recipient in the Administrative Staff category.

Grant was described by his nominators as showing exceptional leadership, in-depth understanding of the college’s operations, and an unwavering willingness to support those around him.

He has made extraordinary and lasting contributions to Mohawk College in two recent projects. In the Strategic Mandate Agreement 3 process Grant played a central role in defining and projecting the performance metrics on which the college is evaluated by the province. His strategic insight and data-informed approach ensured alignment with institutional priorities and helped secure a sustainable foundation under the province’s performance-based funding model.

He is also playing a pivotal role in the college’s Banner ERP implementation. Through Grant's leadership, he has driven forward system modernization, safeguarded data integrity, and laid the groundwork for more efficient service delivery and data-informed decision-making across the college.

Whether leading critical initiatives like SMA3 or Banner implementation, or offering guidance to colleagues across departments, Grant’s collaborative approach fosters a positive and supportive work environment for all. His exceptional leadership makes him a deserving recipient of the Mohawk Award of Excellence.

Congratulations, Grant!

Earlier this month, beneath the bright lights of a Windsor, Ontario pageant stage, stood an accomplished entrepreneur, content creator, model, actor, and humanitarian. 

As Aslihan Morali was crowned Miss Universe Canada 2026, the Mohawk College Office Administration – Health 2018 graduate looked back on an incredible journey. One that had already taken her from arriving to Canada as a refugee at the age of 6 to the international stage. 

This moment was years in the making. 

Her journey included a Top 10 finish at Miss Universe Canada 2023, a second runner-up placement at Miss International Canada 2023, the title of Miss Supranational Canada 2025, and the Miss Congeniality award at Miss Supranational 2025. Each experience helped her grow as a competitor and leader. 

Behind those achievements were endless hours, late nights, sacrifices, and disciplined preparation, all balanced with the demands of everyday life. Through every setback, Aslihan continued to show up and believe in her purpose with a strong foundation behind her. 

“Education was one of the greatest turning points in my life,” she says. Growing up with limited resources, college provided her with an introduction to the professional world and opened doors she had never imagined. 

“Through my college program, I was fortunate to complete a co-op placement at McMaster Children’s Hospital and was later hired, which helped jump-start my career,” Aslihan explains. “Working in healthcare before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic profoundly shaped my perspective. It taught me about empathy, the fragility of life, and how meaningful even the smallest act of kindness can be.” 

A proud Turkish-Canadian advocate and community leader, Aslihan founded LEAP Global Voices, an empowerment initiative dedicated to helping young girls recognize their potential and rewrite their own stories. “Through LEAP, I share my own story with students and encourage them to understand that where they begin does not have to determine where they end,” she says. 

The young girl whose family packed their lives into two suitcases and came to Canada in search of possibilities has grown up to represent her new country. Aslihan demonstrates that a person’s beginning does not determine how far they can go.

When the crown was placed upon her head, she joined a legacy of extraordinary Canadian women. She accepted the honour with gratitude for the friends, family and team members who have carried the dream alongside her.

“Being Miss Universe Canada is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Only 75 women in the history of Canada have had the privilege and honour of holding this title, and I feel a tremendous responsibility to make this year meaningful,” said Aslihan. “What I’m most looking forward to is the outreach and the opportunity to connect with different communities, causes, and organizations across Canada and internationally.”

Although excited for the opportunity to travel and represent Canada, she says the success of this year will be measured not by the distances she travels or the number of events she attends, but instead by the people she’s able to connect with, the organizations she'll support, and the small positive impacts she will make every day.

Throughout her reign, Aslihan will continue her community work while preparing to represent Canada at the 75th Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico this November.

For Aslihan, achieving this crown is not the conclusion of her story. It marks the beginning of a new chapter.

The Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC), with support from Mohawk College, is looking to build a new $25 million union office and training centre in Grimsby.

“We’re going to replace (the existing structure) with what will be a 40,000-square-foot (3,700-square-metre) facility to meet the growth that we’ve had in this place over the last few years and to make way for the training centre that we hope to build with Mohawk,” said CLAC provincial director Ian DeWaard.

Mohawk president Paul Armstrong said the college will be leasing about 836 square metres  of space in the new facility.

“That will allow us to expand apprenticeship seats in plumbing, electrical and HVAC,” said Armstrong.

He said the Grimsby centre will provide training for about 300 students. That’s in addition to 4,700 apprentices at the college’s Stoney Creek campus.

Read the full story in the Niagara Falls Review: With hundreds on apprenticeship wait-lists, CLAC and Mohawk College plan $25M trades training centre in Grimsby

The funding is expected to help nearly 200 jobseekers access training for in-demand careers while upgrading facilities and equipment used by apprentices. The investments are being delivered through the Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program, Apprenticeship Capital Grant and Skills Development Fund Capital Stream.

Mohawk College Receives Largest Share of Hamilton Trades Funding

Mohawk College will receive more than $2.6 million across several initiatives. That includes $1.89 million to modernize electrical, carpentry, automotive and millwright training at its Stoney Creek campus.

Another $483,252 will fund new electrical training equipment, while $265,699 will support pre-apprenticeship training for 15 sheet metal workers, including hands-on instruction, certifications and paid work placements.

“Continued investment in skilled trades training allows Mohawk College to enhance the equipment and facilities that support hands-on learning across a wide range of programs, from automotive and truck and coach, to carpentry, refrigeration and welding. Keeping our training environments current with industry needs strengthens the student experience, supports learners throughout their journey into the trades and helps ensure the employers have access to graduates who are prepared to contribute from day one. Skilled trades training is a priority for Mohawk and we appreciate the Ontario government’s continued support,” said Dr. Cebert Adamson, Vice President Academic at Mohawk College.

Read the full story in Wire Service Canada: Ontario Invests More Than $6 Million in Hamilton Skilled Trades Training

Through this agreement, CLAC and Mohawk College will collaborate on the development of classroom and lab space at CLAC’s location in Grimsby, a short distance from the college’s skilled trades campus in Stoney Creek. The added capacity the Grimsby location provides will help with the backlog of apprentices waiting for in-class training in high demand Red Seal Programs such as electrical, plumbing, welding and carpentry.

The collaboration aligns with the Government of Canada’s Team Canada Strong initiative, which aims to recruit, train and hire 80,000 to 100,000 new Red Seal skilled trades workers by 2030-31. It also aligns with the province’s long standing push to get more people into the skilled trades.

“This partnership demonstrates how colleges and labour organizations can work together to solve urgent workforce challenges,” said Paul Armstrong, President of Mohawk College. “By expanding access to high-quality, hands-on apprenticeship training, we are helping more people move into in-demand careers while supporting the skilled talent pipeline employers need to grow Ontario’s economy.”

Rooted in a shared commitment to workforce development, the partnership brings together Mohawk College’s strength in industry-led skilled trades education with CLAC’s direct connection to workers and workforce needs in the field. Mohawk and CLAC will work together to identify skills gaps in the trades and respond with targeted, industry-informed programming. They will also explore how they can support accelerated learning pathways and integrate emerging technologies into trades education based on worker experience and insight, from the field.

“Ontarians need the breadth, depth and expertise of our community colleges, to serve the vast number of prospective tradespeople who come from all corners of the province,” said Ian DeWaard, CLAC Provincial Director. “This partnership strengthens our ability to support the next generation of skilled trades professionals by ensuring people have accessible pathways into well-paying, in-demand careers.”

Beyond physical infrastructure, the agreement commits both organizations to exploring future partnerships in applied research, workforce development, and emerging areas such as green construction, sustainable building practices, and next-generation skilled trades training. The facility is currently in the preliminary design stage, with plans to start the approvals process latter this year, and a ground breaking in early 2027.

Media contacts:

Andre Van Heerden
Communications Director
Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC)
416-906-0989

Meaghan Drury
Communications Specialist
Mohawk College
meaghan.drury@mohawkcollege.ca

About Mohawk College:

Mohawk College is a nationally recognized leader in applied research and education. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, the college serves more than 27,500 full-time, part-time and apprenticeship students annually across four main campuses. It offers nearly 200 industry-led programs spanning health, technology, aviation maintenance, skilled trades and climate action, and operates living classrooms embedded within industry partner sites. Since opening in 1967, more than 180,000 students have graduated from Mohawk College.

About CLAC:

CLAC is one of Canada’s largest independent national unions, with over 60,000 members working in a wide range of sectors—construction, education, emergency services, healthcare, retail, service, transportation, manufacturing, and more. CLAC (Christian Labour Association of Canada) was formed in 1952, based on the values of respect, dignity, and fairness.

Endorsements:

“Stoney Creek and Hamilton as a whole have long been known for their hard-working tradespeople. I am pleased to hear that reputation will continue to grow as Mohawk College and CLAC have partnered to get more apprentices the in-class training they need to succeed in growing fields such as welding, plumbing, carpentry and electrical work. The best way to ensure Canada continues to grow and prosper is to take care of those building it. I look forward to the valuable opportunities this will create for the residents of Hamilton East-Stoney Creek.”
- Ned Kuruc, MP for Hamilton East-Stoney Creek

“Canada needs more skilled tradespeople, and meeting that challenge takes a Team Canada approach. Partnerships like this one between Mohawk College and CLAC are exactly how we get there - expanding apprenticeship training, opening doors to good, rewarding careers, and building the skilled workforce to move our country forward."
- Lisa Hepfner, MP for Hamilton Mountain

“The future of Hamilton's economy depends on a strong skilled trades workforce, and Mohawk College is leading the way by preparing the next generation for careers in the building trades. Their work is helping build a Canada Strong economy while creating good-paying opportunities for workers across our region.”
- John-Paul Danko, MP for Hamilton West-Ancaster-Dundas

"Our government is focused on helping more young people discover the skilled trades and giving them clear pathways to rewarding, good-paying careers. Partnerships like this between Mohawk College and CLAC will expand access to hands-on apprenticeship training and give the next generation of workers the skills and experience they need to succeed. By working together with colleges, labour and industry, we’re building the skilled workforce Ontario needs to keep growing and building for the future.”
- Sheref Sabawy, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development

“Our government is making historic investments in skills training to ensure Ontario has the workforce needed to build homes, hospitals, schools, roads, and other critical infrastructure. The partnership between Mohawk College and CLAC will help more apprentices access the training they need right here in Hamilton, and strengthen our city’s position as a hub for the skilled trades. Partnerships like these will help fill in-demand jobs, support local employers, and create lasting opportunities for workers and families across our region.”
- Monica Ciriello, MPP for Hamilton Mountain

“We at the Town of Grimsby are excited for this new partnership between Mohawk College and the Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC). Workforce development has remained a key priority for the Town, and this new Memorandum of Understanding will help us achieve greater workforce alignment in the skilled trades. The College’s current apprenticeship pathways –like that with VTR Solutions here in Grimsby–are already bringing new talent and generating real successes for local industry and business. As we continue to work with our educational partners, we ensure success for local industry in training and retaining highly skilled professionals for the jobs in our community.”
- Mayor Jeff Jordan, Town of Grimsby

The CLAC and Mohawk College will sign a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at addressing urgent labour market needs through expanded skilled trades training capacity and accelerated apprenticeship pathways. The agreement includes collaboration on the development of dedicated classroom and lab space near CLAC’s location in Grimsby. The Parliamentary Assistant to the Ontario Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, Sheref Sabawy will attend and speak along with local area MPs, MPPs, Mayors and Councillors.

Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2026

Time: 9:30 am – 11 am (remarks begin at 10 am)

Location: Mohawk College Stoney Creek Campus, 481 Barton Street, Stoney Creek, ON

Directions & Parking:

For directions to the Stoney Creek campus, visit the Google Maps link.

The event will be held in the atrium immediately inside the main entrance off Barton Street. For parking and event location, visit the Mohawk College Campus Map. Parking is complimentary.

Notes:

Media representatives can confirm attendance by emailing Mohawk College Communications Specialist, Meaghan Drury at Meaghan.drury@mohawkcollege.ca

Media Contacts:

Andre Van Heerden
Communications Director
Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC)
416-906-0989

Meaghan Drury
Communications Specialist, Mohawk College
905-575-2127
Meaghan.drury@mohawkcollege.ca

This past spring, recent Mohawk College Architectural Technology co-op graduate, Omar Ashkar received the Intern Excellence Award 2025 for the Greater Toronto Area at Pomerleau’s annual Excellence Celebration. Omar completed two co-op terms at Pomerleau and has since accepted a full-time position with the company.

Pomerleau is one of Canada’s largest construction companies, specializing in building, infrastructure, and civil engineering projects across the country. The organization is involved in major and complex projects such as hospitals, transit systems, wastewater treatment plants, and renewable energy facilities, often involving innovative and sustainable construction practices.

Each year, Pomerleau celebrates the contribution of its interns through the Excellence program. This initiative expresses appreciation for students who completed their internships and recognizes the outstanding performance of those who stood out by awarding them one of the 2025 Excellence scholarships.

Omar was one of eleven interns to receive the award out of 366 interns eligible. Pomerleau recognizes the talent, effort, and achievement of its top interns through a nomination and scholarship program. Each year, the management of each office nominates the most outstanding interns in each of the firm’s main divisions. The winners are chosen from across Canada and invited to the Excellence Celebration to be honoured and receive a $2,500 scholarship.

“Receiving the Toronto Intern Excellence Award means a lot to me. My time at Mohawk and my co-op with Pomerleau helped shape my confidence, skills, and passion for the building industry. I’m grateful for the support and opportunities that made this achievement possible,” says Omar, now working as a Project Coordinator at Pomerleau Construction.

Omar’s achievement sets an inspiring example of what dedication and passion can achieve. This recognition is more than just an award; it reflects the value of hands-on learning and the impact students can make when given the opportunity.

At Mohawk College in Hamilton, next to the gym where students shed their heavy winter layers before working out, there are four rows of sleek, almost sci-fi-looking structures. Steel pillars rise to support tilted, solar-panelled roofing shielding some 40 cars – each open-air structure can accommodate 25 – and a few dishevelled students after a sudden burst of freezing rain. From a low angle, it might not look like much: just another parking lot in a city full of too many. But if you tore this one up and planted a two-acre forest in its place, it would reduce carbon emissions by the same amount. This solar carport, the largest in Ontario, helps keep the lights on in that gym.

Read the full story in Cambridge Today: The parking lot that’s keeping the lights on

July 6, 2026

This notice relates to a recent event that could affect the confidentiality of certain current/former students and staffs’ personal information, due to a third-party incident affecting MyCanvas accounts.

What Happened? On April 26, 2026, a malicious actor obtained unauthorized access to certain myCanvas accounts hosted on Instructure inc. (‘‘Instructure’’), including myCanvas accounts belonging to Mohawk College (‘‘Mohawk’’). This activity was subsequently identified as part of a ransomware incident impacting Instructure. On or around May 2, 2026, Instructure notified Mohawk of the Incident. Mohawk subsequently commenced its own internal response with the assistance of third party cybersecurity specialists.

On or around May 12, 2026, Instructure advised Mohawk that it reached an agreement with the unauthorized party, resulting in the return of the data, assurances it will not be shared, and evidence that copies have been deleted. At the time of this update, there is no evidence that the data has been posted online. That said, we are issuing this notice as a precautionary measure, so that students and staff may consider taking the appropriate preventive measures.

What Information Was Involved? Personal information that has been identified in the myCanvas accounts may include any combination of the following: name, email addresses, institutional/student identifications, user-generated content, including messages.

What We Are Doing. We take this event and the security of information in our care very seriously. Upon discovery of this event, we immediately began an exhaustive investigation to determine its nature and scope.  As part of our ongoing commitment to the confidentiality of the information, we are also working to put in place additional security measures to further protect against the risk of a similar event occurring in the future. We have also reported this event to the appropriate regulatory authorities, including the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario (‘‘IPC’’).

Please note that you are entitled to make a complaint to the IPC. The complaint must be made in writing and filed with the IPC by no later than May 2027. The mailing address for the IPC is: 2 Bloor Street East, Suite 1400 Toronto, ON, M4W 1A8.

What You Can Do. While we have no indication of fraud or identity theft as a result of this event, we encourage you to remain vigilant for phishing or suspicious messages, not click unfamiliar links or share personal information. We invite you to report any concerns to the IT Service Desk.

For More Information.  We understand that you may have questions about this event that are not addressed in this notice. If you have any further questions or require assistance, please contact us at mohawkcommunications@mohawkcollege.ca.

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May 22, 2026

Update on Canvas Security Incident

Mohawk College continues to monitor the global cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the provider of MyCanvas.

Instructure has advised it reached an agreement with the unauthorized party, resulting in the return of the data, assurances it will not be shared, and evidence that copies have been deleted. At the time of this update, there is no evidence that the data has been posted online. This provides additional reassurance; however, situations involving unauthorized third parties carry inherent uncertainty, and the Mohawk community should continue to remain vigilant.

Current Status

• MyCanvas is fully operational and safe to use
• No action is required from students or employees

Precautionary Guidance

• Remain vigilant for phishing or suspicious messages
• Do not click unfamiliar links or share personal information
• Report concerns to the IT Service Desk

The college will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates if warranted.

May 12, 2026

Update on Canvas Security Incident

Instructure has advised that it has reached an agreement with the unauthorized party, resulting in the return of the data, assurances that it will not be shared, and evidence that any copies have been deleted. While situations involving cybercriminals can never be guaranteed, this development provides some reassurance.

At this time, no action is required. However, we strongly encourage you to remain vigilant for phishing emails or suspicious messages. Be cautious of unexpected requests for personal information and avoid clicking unfamiliar links.

We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.

May 8, 2026

Update: MyCanvas Learning System Back Online

Mohawk College’s MyCanvas learning system is back online and is safe for use by students faculty and staff.

The college continues to monitor the situation with MyCanvas provider Instructure and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

May 7, 2026

MyCanvas Learning System Offline

Mohawk College’s MyCanvas learning system is unavailable until further notice.

Students who have concerns about assignments, assessments, or course-related deadlines are encouraged to contact their program coordinator directly for support and guidance. Faculty and staff are aware of the outage and will adjust their teaching plans accordingly. No assignments are due during the outage. 

This outage affects the MyCanvas learning system only. No other college systems are affected. The college continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

May 6, 2026

Important IT Notice: Third‑Party Incident Affecting MyCanvas

Mohawk College is aware of a global cybersecurity incident involving Instructure, the provider of the MyCanvas learning system.

At this time, there is no required action for students or employees. Passwords and login credentials were not affected, and there is no indication that financial or highly sensitive personal information was involved.

Users are encouraged to remain vigilant for phishing emails and report any suspicious messages.

The college continues to monitor the situation and will share updates if needed. 

Mohawk College recently earned the Verified Employee Listening badge from McLean & Company, a leading HR research and advisory firm.  

This designation recognizes organizations that demonstrate a commitment to understanding the employee experience through structured, research-backed employee listening practices. By deploying an employee engagement pulse survey delivered by McLean & Company this past winter, Mohawk College has taken a meaningful step toward gathering actionable feedback and strengthening its people strategy.  

Furthermore, the feedback obtained through employee focus groups held in June combined with the results of the employee engagement survey will help to inform the new employee engagement strategy that will launch this fall.   

"Receiving the Employee Listening badge is a meaningful recognition of the work that is being done to ensure every employee has a voice,” says Amanda Pike, Director, People, Organizational Development & Change. “By listening, learning and responding, we are creating a more engaged environment where Mohawk College employees can thrive and continue doing great work for our students and the community.”  

The McLean & Company Verified Employee Listening badge is part of McLean & Company’s Awards & Recognition program, which celebrates organizations that are measuring what matters and building stronger, more responsive workplaces.  

To learn more about the program, visit www.hr.mcleanco.com/awards-and-recognition-program  

About McLean & Company  

McLean & Company pairs evidence-based research and immediately applicable tools with deep HR expertise to position organizations to meet today’s needs and prepare for the future. The global HR research and advisory firm’s member organizations enjoy comprehensive resources, full-service diagnostics, workshops, action plans, and advisory services for all levels of HR professionals, from executive leadership and HR leaders to HR team members, that help shape workplaces where everyone thrives. 

Students of the Mohawk College Advertising and Communications Management program will soon see their award-winning work in the pages of notable industry magazine, Applied Arts.   

The annual awards give talented students an advantage in the competitive advertising field by featuring their work in a well-regarded industry magazine.   

Applied Arts describes the contest as a “fast-track to landing your first job.” Winning an Applied Arts Award is an excellent resume boost for these exceptionally talented students.   

The contest is open to current secondary, post-secondary, and graduate students studying graphic design, creative advertising, photography, illustration, digital, motion or gaming programs from the US, Canada and Europe. Any work created at any time during a student’s academic creative program is eligible.  

“The industry exposure is fantastic,” says Professor Rafael Ferreira.  

And what it means to the students to win an award of this calibre can be summed up by the excitement of one of the winners. "I screamed so loud in the car when I got the email that I scared my mom," says Kambria Johnson.  

See the Mohawk College winners' work: 

• Arby's Nickelback – Macey Miller & Stephanie Hutchinson-Rodgers
• Flo Period Power Up – Macey Miller & Stephanie Hutchinson-Rodgers
• Tilt Arcade Bar – Macey Miller & Stephanie Hutchinson-Rodgers
• Taino – Kambria Johnson
• Kewpie Blurring Type – Shane Joslin & Alex Ryzhkova
• Gemini Learning Cycles – Shane Joslin, Liv Ellis & Kambria Johnson  
• Lowes 'Highs and Lows' - Jason Flores and Julianne Tessoro

Congratulations to these talented students on this incredible achievement. Watch for the print magazine featuring their award-winning submissions on bookstore shelves in the coming months.  

*Note: Originally, this story indicated that six awards were won by Mohawk College students. A seventh was confirmed after the story was published and has since been updated. 

CHCH News legend Annette Hamm has signed off for her last time on Morning Live.

It brings a long, illustrious career to a close, but she’s not fully done just yet. That career began with CHCH News back in 1986. She worked as a writer, a crime reporter, a weekend news anchor and eventually she moved to the morning show desk.

“There’s been lots of exciting things that I have done, and I’m really gonna miss the adrenaline,” said Hamm. “I thought my crime reporter days were my very favourite days, but I also really love the show here.”

For years, people woke up to Hamm’s voice in the morning, through all the ups and downs, good times and silly times.

Hamm is a Hamiltonian through and through: she attended Mohawk College and in 2016 she was given an Alumni of Distinction award — success she credits to her colleagues and her viewers.

Watch the full story on CHCH: CHCH News legend Annette Hamm departs from Morning Live after decades on-air

This spring, graduates were recognized at ceremonies throughout June with W.K. Warrender Awards, Governor’s General Awards, Outstanding Achievement Awards, and Graduate Medals.  

W.K. Warrender Award 

The Mohawk College Judge W.K Warrender Award went to three graduates Aydann Mueller (Aviation Technician - Avionics Maintenance), Sahil Jain (Computer Systems Technician -Software Support), and Mubeen Ali (Pharmacy Technician).

The W.K Warrender Award recognizes the distinguished contribution of recipients to student life throughout their time at the college. 

Aydann Mueller was a consistent and engaged presence in student life initiatives. She volunteered at open houses, represented the Aviation program in promotional videos, participated in CHCH news interviews, and took part in an Airport Emergency Exercise—always contributing her time willingly and with genuine enthusiasm. Her leadership also extended into competition, where she earned a gold medal at the Skills Ontario competition and went on to represent both Mohawk College and Ontario at the national level. In recognition of her achievement, a gold medal banner bearing her name now hangs in the rafters of the Hamilton Airport campus hangar, standing as a lasting inspiration for future students.  

From the start of Sahil Jain’s academic journey, he demonstrated a strong commitment to excellence, maintaining an average above 90%, earning multiple Dean’s List recognitions. Beyond academics, he contributed over 527 volunteer hours, strengthening the campus community through his roles as Student Ambassador, Wellness Ambassador, and Peer Tutor.  As a Director-at-Large with the Mohawk Students’ Association, he represented the student voice and supported meaningful campus initiatives.  He also gained valuable industry experience as an IT Support Technician intern at Mohawk’s Mississauga campus in partnership with triOS College, successfully applying his academic knowledge in a professional setting. Throughout his journey, he demonstrated that leadership is measured not only by personal achievement but also by service to others.  

Mubeen Ali has consistently demonstrated leadership, dedication, and a strong commitment to student success. Balancing multiple jobs throughout his studies, he remained actively involved in campus life, volunteering in class and across the college while supporting his peers and contributing positively to the Allied Health community. From his first week at Mohawk, he served as a representative of his program on the Associate Dean’s Allied Health focus group, helping to improve student resources and learning supports. He worked as a Student Services Assistant with the Mohawk Students’ Association and regularly volunteered at open houses and provided guided campus tours. He also co-led the Pharmacy Technician Student Club, organizing social events, study sessions, and Pharmacy Awareness Month activities. Outside of school, this student volunteered within his local mosque and community, mentoring youth and encouraging them to explore different career opportunities through post-secondary education.  

Outstanding Achievement Awards 

The Mohawk College Outstanding Achievement Awards are presented to graduating students with a minimum 75% GPA in addition to proven community involvement and extracurricular achievements, as nominated by their faculty.  

The Outstanding Achievement Awards were presented to:  

• Zachary Sousa (Software Engineering Technician)
• Amy Kabbes (Child and Youth Care)
• Daniil Bryzgalov (Computer Engineering Technology – Mechatronic Systems) 

Governor General's Award  

The Mohawk College 2026 Governor General's Award went to Xin Zou of the Aviation Technician – Avionics Maintenance program. 

The Governor General’s Academic Medal, established in 1873, is one of the most prestigious awards that can be received by a student in a Canadian educational institution for exceptional academic achievement.  

The Collegiate Bronze Medal is awarded annually at the Spring Convocation to the student who achieves the highest overall average upon graduation from a diploma-level full-time post-secondary program that must be at least two years in duration. The recipient is selected from the graduating classes spanning an academic year.  

Xin Zou was also the recipient of the Mohawk College Graduate Medal, which is awarded annually at the Spring Convocation to one full-time student per faculty who achieves the highest-grade point average, with no failures.  

Graduate Medals  

The Mohawk College Graduate Medals are awarded to one student per faculty who achieve academic distinction while maintaining honours standing, with no failures.  

The medals are presented annually at the Spring Convocation to a full-time graduating student with the highest-grade point average from each faculty, as determined by the Registrar. The criteria for this award stipulates that it is issued on academic marks only. 

The Spring 2026 Graduate Medals were presented to:  

• Kaitlyn Phillips (Brain Disorders Management)
• Kassidy Weis (Early Childhood Education)
• Connor Nethercott (Business)
• Greg Whitby (Construction Engineering Technician)
• Khyam Osorio (Biotechnology)
• Xin Zou (Aviation Technician – Avionics Maintenance)

Congratulations to all these students on their incredible achievements!  

When Insurance student Madison Filax-Orr stepped into the Senate of Canada Building in Ottawa this spring, she joined 109 post-secondary students from across the country for Model Senate 2026 — a three-day immersive experience designed to simulate the work of Canada’s Upper Chamber. Participants debated legislation, examined policy issues in committee, and even responded to a surprise emergency debate, all while learning firsthand how parliamentary democracy works.   

Launched in 2020 and hosted by the Senate Administration, the event is a unique model parliament in Canada that attracts hundreds of applicants from across the country.  

For Madison, the opportunity was a natural extension of her passion for civic engagement and advocacy.  

“I chose to participate in the Model Senate because it offered a powerful platform to translate insights from my student leadership journey into advocacy for both my peers and post-secondary students,” she said.  

Madison first learned about Model Senate through the Mohawk Students’ Association (MSA) last year. Encouraged by mentors who recognized her commitment to student leadership, she applied and was accepted. After a rewarding first experience, she returned for a second year and has since used her own social media platforms to encourage other students to apply.  

Throughout the event, participants debated a fictional bill, engaged in committee studies, and networked with senators, Senate staff, and fellow student leaders from across Canada.   

As part of her senator’s statement, Madison advocated for stronger collaboration between government officials, educators, and students.  

“I urged government officials to work collaboratively with educators and students, emphasizing consistent consultation with those most directly impacted by policy decisions,” she said. “Ultimately, influencing even a single leader to consider these vital perspectives would make the entire experience incredibly worthwhile.”  

Serving as President of the Mohawk Students’ Association since April 2026, Madison says the lessons she learned in Ottawa will directly shape her leadership approach.  

“The most valuable lesson I will bring from the Model Senate into my role as MSA President is the power of meaningful collaboration and active consultation,” she said. “Participating in direct dialogue with students, educators, and policymakers reinforced that the most impactful leadership happens when we actively listen to our constituents and co-create solutions.”  

She hopes to continue fostering open communication with Mohawk College students, ensuring their voices are reflected in decisions that affect their academic experience, well-being, and future opportunities.  

For Madison, Model Senate demonstrated how meaningful change begins when people come together, listen to one another, and advocate for the communities they serve.

Mohawk’s Distinguished Fellows make invaluable contributions to the college through academic advisement and student engagement, community outreach and strategic advisement to Mohawk’s senior leadership team.  Participation in Mohawk College’s Distinguished Fellow program is by invitation only, with the title conferred and service to the college recognized during convocation ceremonies.

This year’s inductees are:

Dr. Azim S. Gangji
Distinguished Fellow - Adjunct Professor

Dr. Azim S. Gangji is a nephrologist, transplant physician, clinician educator and health-system leader whose work has strengthened the connection between healthcare and education in Hamilton and beyond. As Vice-President, Academic at St. Joseph’s Health System, Vice-President, Education at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, and a Professor of Medicine at McMaster University, Dr. Gangji has played a key role in advancing collaborative models of learning, including the Mohawk–St. Joseph’s Living Classroom partnership, which creates meaningful opportunities for Mohawk College students to learn in real-world healthcare environments.

Dr. Gangji’s leadership spans nephrology, transplantation, simulation, interprofessional education and health-system collaboration. He is Co-Chair of the Ontario Hospital Association Education Committee and has chaired national committees through the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada focused on residency and fellowship programs, accreditation and CanMEDS leadership. Internationally, he has helped strengthen dialysis services, cardiovascular and kidney disease prevention, clinical training, research and healthcare workforce capacity in Guyana and other global health settings. Through his commitment to innovation, mentorship and patient care, Dr. Gangji has made a lasting impact on learners, institutions and communities locally and around the world.

The Distinguished Fellow - Adjunct Professor for Dr. Azim S. Gangji will be conferred by virtue of hooding at the Convocation Ceremony held on Monday, June 15 at 2 pm.

Rob MacIsaac
Distinguished Fellow

Rob MacIsaac is a visionary public servant, lawyer and community leader whose career has shaped municipal government, transportation, healthcare and postsecondary education across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. As a former President of Mohawk College, MacIsaac helped advance the college’s role as a community-building institution and championed the importance of education in preparing the next generation of leaders. He also served as Mayor of Burlington, founding Chair of Metrolinx, and most recently as President and CEO of Hamilton Health Sciences, where he led a $1.6-billion health system through the COVID-19 pandemic.

A graduate of the University of Waterloo and Western University’s Faculty of Law, MacIsaac holds an ICD.D. designation from the Rotman School of Business and an Honorary Doctorate from Charles Sturt University. He has chaired Ontario’s Greenbelt Task Force, served on numerous boards across the public and private sectors, and been recognized with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, a Paul Harris Fellowship Award and the CUI Urban Leadership Award, among other honours. Throughout his career, MacIsaac has been guided by a deep commitment to building stronger communities and supporting emerging leaders across the region.

The Distinguished Fellow for Rob MacIsaac will be conferred by virtue of hooding at the Convocation Ceremony held on Tuesday, June 16 at 9:30 am.

Dan Lawrie
Distinguished Fellow

Dan Lawrie is the Founder and Chairman of Lawrie Insurance Group, one of Canada’s largest independently owned insurance brokerages, headquartered in Hamilton, Ontario. A respected business and community leader, Lawrie has built a nationally recognized company rooted in independence, integrity and a client-first approach. His longstanding commitment to Hamilton and the surrounding region has also made him a valued supporter of Mohawk College and its role in strengthening the communities it serves.

Beyond business, Lawrie is widely recognized for his contributions to the arts, culture and community development across Southern Ontario. He has supported major civic and cultural institutions, including the Art Gallery of Burlington and the Royal Botanical Gardens, and helped create public art initiatives such as the Dan Lawrie International Sculpture Collection in Hendrie Park and the Burlington Waterfront Sculpture Trail. His contributions have earned him numerous honours, including Hamilton Citizen of the Year, induction into the Burlington Entrepreneur Hall of Fame and the Key to the City of Burlington.

The Distinguished Fellow for Dan Lawrie will be conferred by virtue of hooding at the Convocation Ceremony held on Wednesday, June 17 at 2 pm.

Glenn T. Gibson
Distinguished Fellow

Glenn T. Gibson is a distinguished international insurance executive, educator and community leader whose career spans more than five decades. A former Global Chief Strategy Officer with Crawford & Company, he has led complex catastrophe and major loss initiatives around the world and is widely recognized for his expertise in appraisal, arbitration and fire investigation. His deep commitment to professional education, applied learning and community leadership aligns closely with Mohawk College’s role in preparing skilled graduates and strengthening the Hamilton region.

Gibson has delivered more than 500 lectures globally and authored more than 250 published articles, several of which have been cited by the Ontario Superior Court. For more than 30 years, he has contributed to specialized training programs in partnership with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. His academic and professional credentials include executive education at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Fellow Chartered Loss Adjuster, Certified Fire & Explosive Investigator, Certified Fraud Examiner and Institute Certified Director designations. A dedicated civic leader, he serves as Chair of the Hamilton Sports Group Foundation and has previously held leadership roles with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. His contributions have been recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal and the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

The Distinguished Fellow for Glenn T. Gibson will be conferred by virtue of hooding at the Convocation Ceremony held on Wednesday, June 17 at 7 pm.

Lillian Wherry
Distinguished Fellow - Honorary Diploma (Posthumous)

Lillian Wherry was born in Hamilton on Nov 1, 1920 and died Feb 1, 2025 at 104 years old. She grew up during the Great Depression which prevented her from pursuing a post-secondary education. She attended a technical school then worked in a bakery. At the age of 22, she married Robert Wherry. They both knew what it was like during hard times and were always ready to help others when they saw a need. They were devout Christians and active volunteers in many organizations their entire lives. 

Robert was a welder, and he was proud of his welding skills and the important projects he had worked on. After he died in 2009, Lillian created a scholarship at Mohawk aimed at supporting students learning the welding trade. She also supported the new welding lab at the Marshall School for Skilled Trades and Apprenticeship. In 2017, Lillian was presented the Senior Citizen of the Year award by the mayor of Hamilton in recognition of her lifelong commitment to volunteering and supporting others in the community. 

The Distinguished Fellow - Honorary Diploma for Lillian Wherry will be conferred posthumously at the Convocation Ceremony held on Friday, June 19 at 2 pm.

All Mohawk College Convocation ceremonies will be streamed live to the college's YouTube channel. For information on the ceremonies, visit: https://www.mohawkcollege.ca/convocation-ceremonies-june-2026-graduates-dates-and-times   

Mohawk College announced today the 2026 Alumni of Distinction recipients, honouring 8 outstanding graduates who have made a remarkable impact in their careers and community contributions, providing an exceptional source of inspiration for future generations.   

"These alumni showcase what is possible when passion, purpose, and perseverance come together,” said President Paul Armstrong ‘88. “Mohawk College is proud to be a part of their journey and celebrate their success, recognizing the positive impact they continue to make in their professions and beyond." 

This year marks the 30^th anniversary of the Alumni of Distinction awards with over 200 incredible alumni honoured to date. 

Congratulations to the 2026 Alumni of Distinction recipients:  

• Andrew Cote ‘01, Director Supplier Services, UNFI Canada (Business)
• Jeremy Inglis ‘04, Deputy Fire Chief, Training and Support Services, Oakville Fire Department (Community Services)
• Hussein Rumaithi ‘19, Associate Creative Director, McKinney Canada (Cultural & Creative Achievement)
• Joseph Apps ‘16, CEO, Joe Apps Technology (Entrepreneur)
• Lisa De Panfilis ‘17, Director, Quality, Safety and Strategy, Yukon Hospital Corporation (Health Sciences)
• Amanda Engelhardt ‘21, Community Support Counsellor, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton (Recent Graduate)
• Adam Ayres ‘79, Founder Partner, Grow the Good Inc. (Science, Engineering & Technology)
• Terri Johns ‘81 & ‘83, Founder and President, Landwise (Skilled Trades) 

This year’s recipients will be recognized at a celebration in their honour on October 29, 2026.  Tickets are on sale now. 

Since 1996, the Alumni of Distinction Awards have proudly recognized deserving Mohawk graduates. All of the nominees are individuals who set the standard of excellence for which Mohawk College is recognized, and they are a source of inspiration for future generations of graduates.  

Visit the college’s website for more information about the Alumni of Distinction Awards. 

For two inspiring days in May, leaders from across sectors gathered at Mohawk College for the Spring 2026 PIVOT Conference. Attendees were united by a shared goal to accelerate climate action through collaboration, innovation, and community engagement. 

Hosted by Mohawk College’s School of Climate Action, the conference began with immersive field-trip experiences that exposed participants to tangible examples of local climate action. Attendees explored industrial transformation along Hamilton’s waterfront with Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority and Ontario Shipyards and learned of Indigenous-led conservation and knowledge at Kayanase, an ecological restoration and native plant and seed business located on Six Nations. These experiences provided firsthand insight into the opportunities and complexities of building a sustainable future. 

The conference was opened by renowned environmentalist and scientist, Dr. David Suzuki. His message was clear; we need to act, and we need to act now. The urgency for collective action and the responsibility shared by all sectors of society is essential to address climate action. 

Building on the importance of local and collective action, the conference featured a compelling Local to Global Impacts panel discussion which explored climate action through a broader cross sectoral lens. Moderated by CHCH Morning Live co-host and Mohawk College Alumni of Distinction, Annette Hamm, panelists included Mohawk College President Paul Armstrong, Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Eric Jury of Ontario Power Generation, and Peter Jones of IKEA Canada. Their conversation focused on how their institutions and organizations were navigating sustainability challenges, while also identifying opportunities for innovation, resilience, and leadership. 

Day one wrapped up with the Climate Innovators Gala, hosted by the Hamiton Chamber of Commerce. This event, aligned with the PIVOT Conference, hosted the Honourable Bob Rae as a keynote speaker and fireside conversation with Mohawk College’s President, Paul Armstrong. The conversation explored international leadership, opportunities for industry, local momentum, and cross-sectoral collaboration. 

Day two shifted the focus toward action, exploring sector-specific opportunities across three distinct streams; education and community, finance and policy, and industry and infrastructure. Through dynamic panel discussions and focused climate conversations, participants heard from diverse perspectives and engaged in honest discussions. The day also included networking opportunities and lightning talks on approaches to workforce development, smart infrastructure and community-driven climate solutions.

The event concluded with a closing keynote from Anthony Morgan, host of CBC’s The Nature of Things, and researcher focused on reducing polarization and improving high-stakes conversations. His remarks challenged attendees to consider how climate action and social justice are deeply interconnected, leaving participants with a powerful reminder that meaningful and lasting change requires both courage and collective responsibility. 

Thanks to support from sponsors like Presenting Sponsor belairdirect, PIVOT 2026 demonstrated the power of convening diverse voices around a common purpose. Fresh ideas emerged that will continue to shape climate action efforts long after the conference concluded. 

As attendees departed, the message was clear, meaningful climate action requires collective leadership, bold thinking and a willingness to work across sectors. 

Congratulations to Mohawk College Indigenous Counsellor, Elizabeth (Beth) Gray, who was recently honoured with the 2026 Ontario College Counsellors (OCC) Outstanding Contribution and Leadership Award! 

The award recognizes outstanding contribution in leadership, advocacy, collegiality, dedication, quality excellence, originality and relevance. This year's award was announced at the OCC Annual Conference held virtually on May 25. 

Beth has worked at Mohawk College for over 10 years, with the past nine years focused on counselling. She previously spent a decade running a small publishing company as administrator and managing editor, where books on Social Work Practice and Community Organizing were published. 

A community leader, Beth is guided by an unwavering dedication to students. She actively seeks opportunities to learn, build meaningful connections and advocate for services that respond to the evolving realities faced by students. 

Over the past few years, she has developed a strong working relationship with the Hamilton Police Service, which has helped raise awareness around student safety when encountering police and student understanding of grooming and sex trafficking. By working alongside police and advocacy organizations, Beth has championed initiatives that strengthen community supports and student safety. 

Her advocacy has also led to transformative change beyond campus. A new ground-breaking housing project in Hamilton, Sacajawea Non-Profit Housing’s Indigenous Learners Apartments, is currently beginning construction and will provide affordable, culturally safe housing for 31 Indigenous post-secondary students. The project was inspired by Beth’s experience supporting an Indigenous student facing homelessness on a dangerously cold winter day. Determined to find a long-term solution to a systemic issue increasingly affecting Indigenous learners, Beth tirelessly championed the idea of culturally relevant, affordable housing, engaging community partners and leaders to help make the vision a reality. In the face of a national housing crisis that disproportionately impacts Indigenous youth, Beth’s persistence will create lasting change. 

Outside of her work at the college, she mentors mental health professionals training in land-based focusing-oriented therapy, an approach that incorporates Indigenous wisdom into trauma recovery. This commitment reflects both her collegiality and her dedication to providing culturally responsive, high-quality care to students. 

Beth’s passion for learning and commitment to student growth are evident in both large-scale initiatives and everyday acts of support. She regularly seeks opportunities to celebrate student achievements, ensuring students are nominated for special awards and recognized for their accomplishments. She continually adapts her approach to meet changing student needs, always prioritizing student well-being and success. 

“It is a huge privilege to walk alongside our students through their educational journey. I get so inspired by their growth and courage. They make me excited for the future that will be in their hands,” says Beth. “I am proud to work with them and support them however I can as they move toward their vision for their future. I am deeply grateful for their trust. Our students are amazing.” 

Beth’s leadership in counselling and community advocacy continues to make a profound impact, demonstrating that when she dreams big, those dreams often become reality. 

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to creating learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom and connect students to a broader global community. As institutions respond to an increasingly interconnected world, this partnership will support the development of innovative, cross-disciplinary opportunities that prepare students for global success.

“This partnership is unique for Mohawk College because it intentionally integrates academics and athletics to enrich global learning,” said Paul Armstrong, President Mohawk College. “By collaborating with Wrexham University, we are creating opportunities for students to develop skills, build confidence, and broaden their perspectives in ways that go far beyond the classroom.”

This partnership is part of Mohawk College’s flagship Beyond Borders program, which provides students with international learning experiences designed to broaden their understanding of the world and their place within it. Through this MOU, both institutions will explore joint initiatives including student exchanges, faculty collaboration, applied research, and athletic engagement opportunities, offering students a more holistic and global educational experience.

“We are delighted to partner with Mohawk College, strengthening our shared commitment to global collaboration, student opportunity, and the development of skills that will have real impact across our communities. This agreement represents an exciting step forward in creating meaningful international pathways for our learners,” said Joe Yates, Vice Chancelor Wrexham.

The MOU also strengthens the longstanding relationship between Canada and the United Kingdom in education, public service, and innovation, reinforcing a commitment to collaboration, exchange, and student success.

About Mohawk College
Mohawk College is a leading Canadian college focused on applied education, innovation, and student success. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, Mohawk is known for its strong industry partnerships, experiential learning, and global engagement initiatives.

About Wrexham University
Wrexham University is a forward-thinking university in North Wales recognized for applied research, student-centered learning, and community impact.

Hamilton, ON (April 2026)— Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2) and eCampusOntario announced today a new partnership that will strengthen collaboration across postsecondary institutions and expand access to skills training opportunities for learners across Canada.

This partnership reflects a shared commitment to enhancing coordination across educational institutions to improve access to flexible, high-quality learning opportunities that respond to evolving labour market needs. By aligning national and provincial efforts, C2R2 and eCampusOntario will support a more connected and accessible postsecondary education ecosystem.

As part of this collaboration, C2R2 will work with eCampusOntario to integrate its member institutes’ programs into the Skills for Jobs Canada, Canada’s national upskilling platform, designed to connect learners and employers with short-duration, skills-focused education and training. This will enable broader dissemination of programs offered by C2R2 institutes and improve access for learners seeking to upgrade their skills.

“C2R2 is committed to working collaboratively with partners across Canada to strengthen access to education and support workforce development,” said Cebert Adamson, VP Academics at Mohawk College and C2R2 Steering Group Co-Chair. “This partnership with eCampusOntario represents an important step in improving the visibility and accessibility of programs offered by our member institutes, while supporting a more coordinated, pan-Canadian approach to skills development.”

eCampusOntario, a provincially supported not-for-profit organization, plays a key role in advancing digital learning and collaboration across Ontario’s postsecondary sector. Through this partnership, eCampusOntario will extend its collaborative infrastructure to support broader inter-institutional engagement and improved access to educational opportunities.

“eCampusOntario is pleased to partner with C2R2 to support greater collaboration across institutions and jurisdictions,” said Robert Luke, CEO of eCampusOntario. “By working together, we are enhancing pathways for learners and strengthening connections between education providers and employers, contributing to a more responsive and inclusive education system.”

The partnership includes coordinated onboarding, training and ongoing support to facilitate institutional participation, as well as the use of standardized data and metadata to improve program discoverability and alignment with labour market information.

This initiative underscores the importance of collaboration in advancing equitable access to education and supports broader efforts to build a skilled, adaptable, and resilient workforce.

About Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2)

Canadian Colleges for a Resilient Recovery (C2R2) is a coalition of highly aligned colleges, cégeps, and polytechnics across Canada with an established commitment to sustainability. The coalition members have come together as a driving force, providing the skills required to transition to a clean economy in Canada. C2R2’s administration and secretariat are located at Mohawk College in Hamilton.

About eCampusOntario

eCampusOntario is a not-for-profit organization funded by the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, that supports innovation, collaboration and digital-by-design education in Ontario’s publicly assisted colleges, universities, and Indigenous Institutes. It provides the sector with platforms, programs, and services to advance digital participation in postsecondary education, connecting Ontario’s postsecondary institutions and learners to the future of learning and work.

For further information, please contact:

Sean Coffey
Director, Communications
Mohawk College
905-575-2127
sean.coffey@mohawkcollege.ca

Jason Northway-Frank 
Senior Manager, Governance and Public Relations
eCampusOntario
647-719-0555
jnorthway-frank@ecampusontario.ca

Kenora, ON – Skilled Trades Ontario (STO) is improving access to certification for apprentices in Northwestern Ontario by opening the Agency’s first examination centre in Kenora. CEO Candice White joined the Honourable David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, and Minister Rickford to mark the announcement at Seven Generations Education Institute in Kenora.

The Kenora centre is the latest addition to a province-wide network of 24 partnerships between colleges and institutions across Ontario, giving apprentices the ability to write their certifying exams closer to where they live, work, and learn.

“Apprentices across Ontario have told us what a five-hour drive to an exam centre meant for their certification – in time, in cost, and in delays,” shares CEO Candice White. “For too long, that has been the reality. Bringing certifying exams to apprentices exactly where they are changes that. This is what the apprenticeship pathway should look like – meeting apprentices where they are, with the consistency and integrity they deserve. We’re grateful for our industry partners and to the STO team who made this possible.”

The exam centres are located at:

• Centennial College, Ashtonbee Campus
• Durham College, Whitby Campus
• Georgian College, Midland Campus
• George Brown College, Casa Loma Campus
• Humber College, Trades and Technology Campus
• Skilled Trades Ontario Headquarters
• Algonquin College, Ottawa Campus
• Algonquin College, Pembroke Campus
• Fleming College, Peterborough Campus
• Loyalist College, Belleville Campus
• St. Lawrence College, Cornwall Campus
• St. Lawrence College, Kingston Campus
• Canadore College, Commerce Court Campus
• Collège Boréal, Timmins Campus
• Collège Boréal, Sudbury Campus
• Confederation College, Thunder Bay Campus
• Confederation College, Kenora Campus
• Sault College, Sault Ste. Marie Campus
• Conestoga College, Skilled Trades Campus
• Fanshawe College, London Campus
• Georgian College, Owen Sound Campus
• Lambton College, Sarnia Campus
• Mohawk College, Stoney Creek Campus
• St. Clair College, Windsor Campus

STO has delivered more than 7,200 exams across this network of exam centres throughout the province. This total is exclusive of final-level exam offerings which boast an additional 5,400 exams. Behind this number is a dedicated team of Skilled Trades Ontario staff who set up and manage these examination locations every day. They are the reason we can ensure the integrity of the exam experience at each of our sites.

“The opening of the examination centres reflects STO’s continued commitment to improving client service and expanding equitable access to certification across the province,” said Board Chair Michael Sherrard. “This milestone strengthens Ontario’s skilled trades system, supports the growth of a highly qualified workforce, and reflects ongoing efforts to expand regional access and improve service for apprentices, sponsors and employers across Ontario.”

These examination centres will make Ontario’s certification system for apprentices more accessible, responsive and equitable by bringing essential services closer to communities. This work is helping strengthen the skilled trades workforce that will build Ontario’s future.

About Skilled Trades Ontario
Skilled Trades Ontario is an agency of the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development responsible for apprenticeship and skilled trades certification in Ontario. Skilled Trades Ontario is dedicated to simplifying access to services for skilled trades professionals, promoting the skilled trades as a career of choice and addressing the labour shortage in the skilled trades, in partnership with government and industry.

MEDIA CONTACTS
Media Relations
Skilled Trades Ontario
media@skilledtradesontario.ca

Mohawk College has been recognized with the Large Employer Award at the Burlington Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards Gala, held on May 13.

Presented annually by the Burlington Chamber of Commerce, the Business Excellence Awards celebrate organizations and leaders making significant contributions to Burlington’s economy and community. This year’s gala recognized 73 finalists across eight award categories, highlighting the strength and diversity of the city’s business community.

The Large Employer Award recognizes Mohawk College’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and community partnership in the Burlington region.

“This award represents our ongoing commitment to meeting the workforce development needs of the Burlington region, and we look forward to strengthening our connection to the city in the coming years," said Mohawk College President, Paul Armstrong. “On behalf of Mohawk College, we congratulate the fellow nominees and award recipients recognized for their contributions to Burlington’s continued growth and success.”

Hamilton, ON (May 13, 2026) Mohawk College Advertising students are celebrating and taking home a few medals from the Young Ones competition in New York earlier this week, widely considered the most prestigious student advertising competition in the world.  

Students earned 32 shortlisted entries and 10 finalist placements, the strongest results in the program’s history. Those results translated into two bronze medals and eight awards of merit, as well as placing first among Canadian institutions and 12th in the world for The Young Ones One Show contest. Overall, the college ranked 28th for combined competition scores.    

 “Competition was fierce with over 3200 total entries. Taking home two bronze medals and placing first among Canadian teams is a notable achievement for our students,” said Jef Petrossi, Professor, Advertising. “They are competing against the top advertising schools in the world, and to see this level of success speaks to their creativity, dedication and talent.”  

Among the highlights of this year’s awards was that one Mohawk team was a finalist in the competition’s live Pitch Competition. The team travelled to New York to present their campaign in front of leading global industry professionals, showcasing their ideas on an international stage.  

Hosted annually by The One Club for Creativity, the Young Ones competition attracts entries from top institutions around the world and is regarded as a launching pad for the next generation of creative leaders. 

See Mohawk’s two bronze medal-winning submissions:  

• Highs & Lowe's  

• Learning Cycles  

Mohawk’s results reflect both the continued strength of its Advertising program and of Hamilton as a hub for creative talent. 

Vincent L. of Mohawk College earned gold in the post-secondary division, while Evan B. of the Halton District School Board claimed top spot in the secondary category.

Competitors were evaluated across four core modules reflecting modern repair practices, with a total possible score of 1,000 points.

Read the full story in Collison Repair Magazine: Top Techs: Skills Ontario autobody competition winners named