Welder-Fabricators weld ferrous and non-ferrous metals in all positions, using SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), GMAW (Gas Metal Arc Welding), MCAW (Metal Core Arc Welding), and FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding) processes.
Welder-Fabricators use manual and semi-automatic welding equipment, flame-cutting, brazing, and air-arcing equipment to fabricate plates and construct templates and jigs. They also manufacture structural components from blueprints and structural steel drawings by interpreting the common weld symbols and bolted connections.
Completing this program will assist Welder-Fabricators in finding entry-level work in the custom fabrication, construction, mass production, maintenance, petroleum, mining, forestry, and shipyard industries.
This program provides technical training credit that students can transfer to Level 2 of a Metal Fabricator or Welder apprenticeship and 225 work-based hours credit towards completing their chosen pathway.
Career Prospects
Fabricator-Welders can find employment with companies that manufacture structural steel and plate work, boilers, heavy machinery, aircraft, ships, and other metal products, in industries including petroleum, mining, forestry, and shipyards. They also may be self-employed in the industry.
Details
Intakes
| Location | Starting | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dawson Creek | September | Cohort |
Length
960 hours; approximately 34 weeks long.
Estimated Program Fees
Program fee type: Trades/Apprenticeship (Tier 2)
Costs indicated are estimates for a full-time course load.
Book, instruments, supplies, uniforms/clothing and third-party fees are additional.
Domestic Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees (includes GST) | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 3,348.86 | $ 164.99 | $ 819.32 | $ 4,333.17 |
International Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees (includes GST) | International Medical Insurance | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 11,798.40 | $ 161.76 | $ 803.25 | $ 828.00 | $ 13,591.41 |
Still have questions?
Contact:
Admission Requirements
Complete either A, B, or C:
A. English and Math
English Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Language Arts 10 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 11 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 12 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- ENGL 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
- IELTS score of 5.5 overall with no band less than 5.0 or equivalent English placement test and score.
Math Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Math 10 with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent
- BC Math 11 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- BC Math 12 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- MATH 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
B. ESTR 037
Complete:
- ESTR 037 – Essential Skills for Trades – Intermediate Level with a minimum final grade of 67%.
C. POWER
Complete:
- People Obtaining Workplace Employment Requirements (POWER) program
Important Notes
- The program is eligible for Canada Student Loans. Visit Student Aid BC to apply for financial assistance online. Note that dual credit students are not eligible for Student Aid.
- Students must provide personal protective equipment (CSA approved leather boot with safety toe and shank, clear lense safety glasses, flame resistant coveralls, welders’ safety clothing, leather gloves, leather jacket or apron, welding helmet, and cutting goggles). Students are required to have a computer (laptop or other mobile device) with minimum computer requirements. NLC will provide students with a hardhat, a set of earplugs, a pair of gloves, and coveralls.
- The program is affiliated with SkilledTradesBC, School Districts 59, 60, 81 and 87, and Go 2 (Industry training organization who monitors all hospitality type industry training for SkilledTradesBC).
Program Requirements
| Residency Requirement | 100% of each level must be completed at Northern Lights College or by approval of the Dean |
|---|---|
| Minimum Grade Requirements | 70% minimum in all courses |
All of:
- WELF 150 – Welder-Fabricator Foundation (960 contact hours)
Credential
Certificate in Welder-Fabricator Foundation