Exploring futures in nuclear: OPG’s WattNext Nuclear Career Expo at Ontario Tech and Durham College
On October 27, 2026, Ontario Tech University and Durham College’s Oshawa campus welcomed Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) inaugural WattNext Nuclear Career Expo. Hosted at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre. The event brought together students, educators, industry professionals and community members for a day of learning, engagement and career exploration focused on Ontario’s nuclear energy sector.
The expo began with dedicated programming for high school students, featuring morning and afternoon sessions that introduced them to the nuclear industry and its diverse career opportunities. Through interactive learning and exploration, students discovered how their interests could translate into future education and career pathways, gaining insight into the skills, training and roles that support Ontario’s energy sector.
In the evening, the expo opened to the community, welcoming families, post-secondary students, job seekers and educators. Interactive exhibits, presentations and conversations with industry professionals created an introduction to careers in nuclear energy and the educational pathways that lead to them. Opportunities spanned skilled trades, engineering, technology, operations, business and corporate services, underscoring the talent required in the sector. Exhibitors included Aecon, AtkinsRéalis, Bruce Power, Cameco, Skills Ontario and Skilled Trades Ontario, among many others.
Ontario Tech University supported the planning and execution of the expo in collaboration with OPG and Durham College. The university contributed to the on-campus experience through an activity led by Engineering Outreach and booths representing various university offerings. These engagements highlight Ontario Tech’s academic capabilities, connected visitors with university staff and showcased education and experiential learning pathways that prepare students for careers in the nuclear and energy sectors.
Career development was a key component of the evening. Workshops offered guidance on resume development, interview preparation and building a professional LinkedIn profile. The OPG Pavilion complemented these sessions with interactive opportunities to explore energy technology, engineering, nuclear safety, radiation protection equipment and major OPG projects. Attendees could connect directly with OPG’s Human Resources team to learn more about current and future career opportunities.
By connecting high school students with potential career pathways and helping job seekers explore their next steps, the WattNext Nuclear Career Expo highlighted the value of bringing education, industry and community together. Through collaboration with industry partners such as OPG, Ontario Tech and Durham College, it created meaningful opportunities for learning, career exploration and workforce development.
