Niagara College’s annual Career Fair returns this February, offering students and alumni expanded opportunities to connect with employers and explore future career pathways.

For the first time, the College’s largest career-focused event will be held over six days and will be hosted at both the Welland Campus and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Organized by NC’s Career and Co-op Services, the Career Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Feb. 4, 5, and 6 at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus, and on Feb. 9, 10, and 11 at the Welland Campus.

Open to all Niagara College students and alumni, the Career Fair brings together more than 100 employers from a wide range of industries who are recruiting for full-time, part-time, seasonal, and co-op positions. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with employers, learn about industry opportunities, and make meaningful professional connections. No registration is required for students and alumni.

“The Career Fair is a great opportunity for students and alumni to meet directly with potential employers, learn more about their industries, and explore a variety of career pathways,” said Emily Caldwell, Career Consultant with Niagara College. “It allows NC students and alumni who are looking for jobs to have real conversations, ask questions, and make connections that can lead to future employment.”

Employers such as Niagara Region and Niagara Health attend the Career Fair annually to recruit talent and connect with future employees.

“Attend the Niagara College Career Fair to discover how working within the Niagara Region is more than just a job, it’s a chance to make a meaningful impact in your community,” said Alison Pizzacalla, Talent Acquisition Advisor, Niagara Region. “Explore diverse career paths where you can learn, grow, and be part of something bigger.”

“Participating in the Niagara College Career Fair allows us to connect directly with individuals who are exploring meaningful career pathways in healthcare and to highlight the rewarding opportunities available at Niagara Health,” said Amanda Basilone, Manager, Talent Acquisition, Niagara Health. “These events are an important way to build partnerships, strengthen our workforce pipeline, and engage with individuals who are passionate about making a difference in our community.”

In advance of the event, Career and Co-op Services has been offering a variety of preparation sessions and workshops to help students feel confident and ready to meet with employers. These supports include resume clinics, mock interviews, and sessions focused on networking and Career Fair success.

Students and alumni are encouraged to prepare in advance and develop a plan for their Career Fair experience by taking advantage of the services available through Career and Co-op Services, ensuring they put their best foot forward when connecting with potential employers.

For a list of participating employers, the positions they are hiring for, and the dates and campus locations they will be attending, visit www.niagaracollege.ca/careerfair/employer-list/.

For full event details, visit the Niagara College Career Fair website.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Ranked as the No.1 research college in Canada, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact: 
Courtney De Caire
Communications Consultant 
289-407-8298
[email protected]

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George Brown Polytechnic (GBP), in partnership with Niagara College, has announced the return of the Ontario Wine Awards (OWA) in 2026, the province’s most prestigious wine competition and awards program.

Founded in 1995, the Ontario Wine Awards recognize Ontario Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) wines for their quality, distinction, and excellence.

Under a new shared hosting model, George Brown Polytechnic and Niagara College will co-host the OWA on a rotating basis, beginning at George Brown in Toronto in 2026, followed by Niagara College in 2027, and alternating annually thereafter. This partnership will give students more chances to take part in mentored judging and get practical, hands-on experience helping run the event.

The announcement was made during a partnership event at George Brown, where the two institutions formalized the collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding which confirms shared hosting responsibilities and long-term stewardship of the awards.

“The Ontario Wine Awards have long played an important role in recognizing excellence in Ontario’s wine industry,” said Gervan Fearon, President, George Brown Polytechnic. “By partnering with Niagara College, we are building on that legacy while expanding applied learning opportunities and industry engagement for students in both regions, as well as promoting and supporting an industry that generates nearly $5.5 billion in economic activity and employs more than 22,000 individuals. Ontario wines are celebrated and recognized across Ontario and, indeed, across the world. The Ontario Wine Awards is a part of this recognition and celebration.”

“As the home of Canada’s first commercial teaching winery, we’re very pleased to partner with George Brown Polytechnic in the return of the Ontario Wine Awards,” said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “This collaboration creates a unique opportunity for the students who will one day drive the success of Ontario’s wine industry to celebrate and learn from the current leaders and innovators in this world-class sector.”

“The Ontario Wine Awards continues to go from strength to strength under the joint patronage of George Brown Polytechnic and Niagara College,” said Tony Aspler, founder of the Ontario Wine Awards. “I’m delighted that this partnership helps secure the future of Ontario’s prestigious wine competition, celebrating the work of the province’s winemakers.”

Each year, the OWA culminate in the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Ontario Wines, recognizing the very best VQA wines produced across the province.

“These awards offer a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the skill, care, passion, and innovative spirit of Ontario’s winemakers,” said the Honourable Edith Dumont, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. “I am delighted that George Brown Polytechnic and Niagara College will be cultivating their future together.”

“Collaboration is key to delivering a world-class education that prepares students to succeed in their future careers, drive critical sectors, and meaningfully contribute to our economy,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Through this partnership, George Brown Polytechnic and Niagara College are ensuring that students get the hands-on experience they need to thrive, while also fostering excellence in Ontario’s premium wine industry.”

GBP will continue as the brand steward and owner of the Ontario Wine Awards, while Niagara College will serve as co-host during designated rotation years. A joint steering committee will oversee governance, judging standards, and academic integration.

Wine submissions open on January 30. Wineries across the province are encouraged to submit their entries and be part of this year’s awards.

Judging for the 2026 Ontario Wine Awards will take place May 30-31 at George Brown’s Chef School, with winners being announced during Ontario Wine Week in June.

About George Brown Polytechnic

George Brown Polytechnic equips graduates with the career-ready skills and real-world experience to thrive in today’s dynamic job market. With three campuses in downtown Toronto, we blend academic excellence with hands-on learning. Our students sharpen their skills in simulated work environments like The Chefs’ House and WAVE Clinics, engage with 5,000+ industry partners through experiential learning and research, and access global opportunities across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. George Brown offers more than 200 career-focused programs, including degrees, diplomas and certificates, along with 175 continuing education certificates and designations. Each year, we welcome nearly 30,000 full-time students and receive more than 63,000 continuing education registrations. Learn more at georgebrown.ca.

For media inquiries: [email protected]

About Niagara College

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

For media inquiries:

Michael Wales
Director, Communications
905 328-4101
[email protected]

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Jan. 22 tasting event to cap of Canadian Whisky Week

Niagara College’s Artisan Distilling students are ready to put local spirits on the map.

On Jan. 22, the College will host Celebrating Niagara Whisky, a unique tasting event that raises a glass to the region’s distinct character and connects students with industry and community.

Capping off Canadian Whisky Week (Jan. 12-16), the ticketed event will feature local heavyweights shaping the future of the spirit, including Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers, Forty Creek Distillery, Wayne Gretzky Estates, Harris Beach Spirits, Spirit in Niagara Distillery, as well as NC’s Teaching Distillery – the first of its kind in Canada, a living laboratory for students in the Artisan Distilling program.

Prominent Whisky Consultant Ajay Bhardwaj, Director of Spirits at Iron Gate Auctions, will lead a guided exploration of the spirit, while students take the lead on hosting. Guests will have an opportunity to mingle with the producers for firsthand insight into the passion behind the pour.

Andrea Fujarczuk, Professor at NC’s School of Wine, Beer and Spirits, noted that the event is about advocacy as much as appreciation.

“For Niagara College, this event provides our students with a platform to lead the conversation on Canadian whisky,” said Fujarczuk. “Historically, our national spirit has not always received the spotlight it deserves. Through this event, we are reclaiming that narrative, supporting our local artisans, and building a stronger and more connected industry for the future.”

Artisan Distilling students are fully immersed in the initiative. As part of a Canadian Whisky Week learning experience, each student was paired with a local distillery to conduct deep-dive research into the brand, preparing to introduce their products to guests for the evening event.

For Artisan Distilling student Tanner Cuthbert, the event represents a “full circle” moment. A St. Catharines native and former high school teacher, Cuthbert pivoted to NC’s Artisan Distilling program to turn a long-standing interest in history and mixology into a new career.  

“Learning distillation science through practical applications has helped me to retain a deep knowledge and understanding of distillation methods and techniques,” said Cuthbert. “I am looking forward to meeting and working with local whisky producers who have built a reputation for Niagara Whisky on both a national and international scale.”

Fujarczuk emphasized that industry exposure is vital for students.

“This event is a massive win for our students because it gets them out of the lab and directly into the heart of the industry,” said Fujaczuk. “They are working side-by-side with the best distillers in the region, building the kind of professional connections that usually take years to develop.

It’s a hands-on lesson in market trends, regional styles, and high-level networking.”

Distinct regional spirit

The event highlights Niagara whisky’s unique position, often set apart by a ‘wine country’ finish where barrels previously used for award-winning wines impart smooth notes of honey, apricot, and dark fruits.

“While the wine and beer sectors in Ontario have incredible community support, the distilling world is still finding its voice. We are holding this event to change that,” said Fujarczuk. “It is about more than just a celebration; it is about building the same kind of powerful, community-driven force that has made Niagara famous for its wine.”

Students will also present Stout Cask Whisky from the College’s Teaching Distillery. Head Distiller David Dickson described the spirit as a nod to tradition with an innovative twist.

“It has a stronger focus on rye grain and blending – two of the signatures that we feel best represents Canadian whisky,” said Dickson. “We want our students to be able to leave Niagara College with the ability to enter into the distilling industry anywhere and thus have an ability to follow tradition as well as be comfortable innovating.”

Industry applause

Local industry representatives are cheering the initiative.

“I’ve always loved having the Artisan Distilling program right here in the heart of Niagara! To see students start on a similar journey as I did almost 23 years ago, there’s a bounty of opportunity out there for them to learn and create their own paths within the industry,” said Tim Wilson, Master Distiller at Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers.

Chris Thompson, National Brand Ambassador for Forty Creek Whisky, noted that nearly a third of early Canadian whisky production originated in Niagara.

“While deeply rooted in the wine industry, our rich, local whisky history pre-dates the wine industry,” said Thompson. “Niagara whisky today is still carving out its exciting and flavourful niche and proudly continuing our regional legacy with exceptional, award-winning expressions worth trying.”

Event details

Celebrating Niagara Whisky will be held on Monday, Jan. 22 at Benchmark restaurant, located at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Tickets are available via Eventbrite while supplies last: eventbrite.ca/e/celebrating-niagara-canadian-whisky-week-tickets-1977305156952?aff=oddtdtcreator

Artisan Distilling is a one-year graduate certificate program within the College’s trailblazing School of Wine, Beer and Spirits. The program launched in 2018 along with the opening of Canada’s first Teaching Distillery at NC’s Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca

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The Niagara College Teaching Winery’s popular Cherry Cider has struck sweet success at one of the world’s largest hard cider competitions.

At the prestigious 2025 U.S. Open Cider Championship, the College’s Cherry Cider recently reaped a bronze medal. It shared the honour with Yellow Belly Cherry Cider from Minnesota, alongside the gold-winning McKenzie’s Black Cherry (New York) and silver-winning Ciderboys Cherry Jubilee (Wisconsin) in the Cherry Cider category.

“We’re proud of our Teaching Winery’s continued success as an established leader in wine production over the past 25 years, as well as cider production over the past decade,” said Marc Nantel, President and Acting General Manager of NC’s Learning Enterprises. “This latest international medal is a tremendous win for not only our staff but our students, who gain hands-on experience producing high-quality products which are recognized among the best in the world.”

College Winemaker Allison Findlay, who crafted the cider with the Teaching Winery’s production team, noted the significance of the international achievement.

“It is important to showcase the quality of product coming out of the Teaching Winery/cidery,” she said. “It is also important to participate in these competitions to understand where we stand within our industry.”

Cherry Cider uses the Teaching Winery’s flagship cider, Cider 101, as a base, which is then blended with Montmorency cherry juice sourced locally from Cherry Lane in Vineland. The result is a visually distinct and flavourful beverage. It began as a seasonal item but quickly became a permanent fixture on the Teaching Winery’s shelves due to overwhelming demand.

“It is a beautiful pink colour, with notes of fresh cherry on the nose and a hint of apple notes,” said Findlay, “If one person orders it, people turn their heads because of the fun colour. It is a bit of a change from regular cider, and it is a delicious option for those looking to sip a lighter alcohol beverage, and an alternative to beer.”

The new bronze award is the first for NC’s Cherry Cider since Findlay became NC Winemaker in 2022.

While the wine curriculum is the focus for students, the Teaching Winery’s overall cider production has experienced significant growth over the years. Findlay noted that the NC Teaching Winery is a member of the Ontario Craft Cider Association and offers two main ciders, alongside four seasonal varieties.

News about the medal was applauded by staff at the Wine Visitor + Education Centre where student-crafted products from the College’s learning enterprises, including the Teaching Winery, Teaching Brewery and Teaching Distillery, are available for purchase.

“We’re excited about the victory as well,” said Amanda Baldinelli, Hospitality Event Manager from the NC Learning Enterprises Corporation. “The Cherry Cider is a very popular product; it’s great that it was awarded this prize.”

NC’s Teaching Winery officially launched in November 2002 as the first commercial facility of its kind in Canada and continues to lead the way in beverage education and production.

The Teaching Winery ventured into hard cider production in 2015 when it introduced Cider 101 – a modern, approachable, and fruit-forward New World pub cider – which has since won multiple awards. In 2021, Cider 101 won its fourth gold medal at the U.S. Open Cider Championship – a historic first for the competition. It also won a bronze at the U.S. Open in 2022, as well as a bronze at the Ontario Cider Awards (2016).

Cherry Cider is available for purchase in 750 ml bottles ($16.75 per bottle) and by the pint (when available on tap) at NC’s Wine Visitor + Education Centre retail store – alongside products from the Teaching Winery, Teaching Brewery and Teaching Distillery – located at the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake (135 Taylor Rd.). Select products are also available online at niagaracollegewine.ca. Proceeds from the sale of products from the College’s Learning Enterprises support student learning.

For information about the U.S. Open Cider Championship visit usopencider.com.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

Media inquiries, please contact:

Julie Greco

Communications Consultant

905-328-2532

[email protected]

The post Pick of the season: Teaching Winery’s Cherry Cider brings home international medal appeared first on Niagara College.

As demand for skilled clean-energy professionals grows, Niagara College and the Province of Ontario are investing in the training tools needed to prepare tomorrow’s workforce.

New, leading-edge instructional equipment has arrived at the Welland Campus, enhancing learning for students in the two-year Renewable Energies Technician program.

The equipment was made possible through a provincial investment from the College Equipment and Renewal Fund (CERF) of $300,000 matched by the college’s contribution of $312,084, for a total project cost of $612,084 in 2024-45.

“Niagara College thanks the provincial government for its remarkable support,” said President Sean Kennedy. “This investment helps future-proof our technology programs and enhance student learning. It will ensure we continue to prepare the next generation of skilled technicians, especially in clean and sustainable energy, where our grads are in high demand and key to Canada’s sustainable future.”

As demand for clean energy soars, the program trains highly skilled graduates to install, operate, repair, and maintain renewable energy systems for in-demand careers in technology. Students in the program learn to assess energy consumption and optimize efficiency for both residential and commercial settings.

“As our government continues to protect Ontario and build on our clean energy advantage, the province is making strategic investments to train skilled workers in the renewable energy sector,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West. “This investment through the College Equipment and Renewal Fund for Niagara College will help secure an affordable energy future for our region and across the province.”

“Canada’s renewable energy industry is growing fast and urgently needs skilled workers,” said program coordinator Bryan Mewhiney. “Many of our students have jobs lined up before they even graduate, but the challenge is awareness. Too few people know this field exists, nor that the sector offers lifelong, meaningful careers.”

The funding has enabled advanced learning in solar, HVAC, and geothermal energy through a new solar training facility, four heat pump trainers, and two geothermal learning systems.

“Designing and managing renewable energy systems takes specialized training and a strong foundation in engineering – that’s exactly what we provide at Niagara College,” said Mewhiney.

The solar training facility simulates a real house roof where students gain hands-on experience installing solar panels, but on ground-level for safety. Students from the college’s own School of Trades, led by instructor Craig Brown, constructed the half-truss roof.

New heat pump trainers and geothermal learning systems are preparing students to service this emerging and highly efficient technology that uses heat from the ground to do the work of an air conditioner, furnace or boiler all-in-one to both heat and cool. Unlike solar and wind energy, geothermal is available year-round, 24/7.

Graduates from the Renewable Energies Technician program go on to careers managing renewable energy projects, designing and implementing sustainable systems, installing and maintaining solar PV, solar thermal, wind turbines, and geothermal HVAC systems, retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency, and working in technical sales to promote clean energy technologies.

Renewable Energies Technician alum Ayodele Aderinkoye (2024) came to NC from Nigeria with a background in electrical and electronics engineering and a passion for sustainable energy. Now working as a Wind Turbine Technician with Enercon Service Canada, he says the program set him up for success.

“The hands-on learning, excellent training facilities, and the continuous support from my professors gave me the skills and confidence I needed to succeed in the renewable energy field,” said Aderinkoye.

Aderinkoye returned to NC to speak with students this fall and said the new training facility will give future students a strong start.

“It will give students access to state-of-the-art technology, combined with the outstanding teaching from our professors. “It will prepare them to excel in the renewable energies world.”

Apply for Fall Term 2026

Applications are being accepted for the Fall 2026 intake of the Renewable Energies Technician program. Domestic and international students are welcome to apply, and international students who enroll will be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

Ministry of College and Universities College Equipment and Renewal Fund

The funds support colleges to acquire and renew instructional equipment and learning resources to deliver relevant, high-quality education and training that meet evolving employer needs and support Ontario’s economy.

A leader in applied education, Niagara College (NC) offers diploma, bachelor degree, post-graduate and apprenticeship programs at specialized campuses in Niagara-on-the-Lake and Welland. Consistently ranked among Canada’s top research colleges, NC is also involved in educational projects and partnerships around the world that provide students with important hands-on-experience. NC welcomes students from across Niagara, Ontario, and around the world who are studying in in-demand programs that support key sectors and industries in Niagara and beyond, with graduates making important contributions in all corners of our community. Learn more at niagaracollege.ca.

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Media inquiries, please contact:

Jessica Torok
Communications Consultant 
Niagara College
905-932-1520
[email protected]

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