Durham College Professor Chris Daniel Honoured with 2025 OACETT Outstanding Educator Award

Durham College professor Chris Daniel received the 2025 Outstanding Educator award from the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT). The award was presented at OACETT's Annual General Meeting in Windsor in June 2025.

The recognition was based on Daniel's teaching approach and involvement with students in the Mechanical Engineering Technology program. According to Durham College, Daniel was nominated by his students for his teaching, mentorship, and hands-on approach to education.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Daniel and his students used campus resources to develop support for frontline workers, according to the college. This work included leveraging innovation and designing equipment as part of classroom learning.

Reflecting on the nomination, Daniel said, "When I realized that my students had taken the time to write letters to support my nomination indicating that I had such a massive impact on them – it meant a great deal."

Liam Croft, a 2025 graduate of the Mechanical Engineering Technology program and one of Daniel's nominators, said, "He is an enthusiastic and energetic instructor, who excels in relating complex concepts to practical applications while keeping classes fun and engaging. Many of my favourite academic memories come from the friendly design competitions incorporated into his classes."

Tania Clérac, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering Technology at Durham College, said the award recognizes Daniel's impact on students.

Daniel stated that watching students make progress and being involved in their development is a rewarding part of his work as an educator.