Certificate of Completion in Welder Foundation

Program Description

Welders weld ferrous and non-ferrous metals in all positions, on both plate and pipe, using SMAW (Shielded Metal Arc Welding), GTAW (Gas Tungsten Arc Welding), and FCAW (Flux-Cored Arc Welding) processes.

Welders use manual or semi-automatic welding equipment. They use flame-cutting, brazing, and air-arcing equipment. Additionally, they use brakes, shears, and other metal straightening and bending machines. They generally plan work from drawings or by analyzing the job tasks, determine the materials required and welding processes, then use their knowledge to complete the job. Welders use blueprint symbols to determine machining operations. They check product specifications using precision measuring instruments, maintain equipment and replace parts when required. Welders use a logbook to record training, competencies, certifications, endorsements and employment history.

Welders may specialize in certain types of welding, such as custom fabrication, shipbuilding and repair, pressure vessel welding, pipeline construction welding, structural construction welding or machinery and equipment repair welding.

Students who complete the Welder Foundation program will receive Levels 1 and 2 technical training and 300 work-based hours credit toward completing their Welder Apprenticeship. Certified welders will qualify to test for Pressure Welding IT Procedure tests administered by Technical Safety BC (TSBC).

This program has a Reading Week (30 hours) that falls during the last week of February of each year. (exact dates may vary).

Career Prospects

Welders can specialize in certain types of welding such as custom fabrication, shipbuilding and repair, pressure vessel welding, pipeline construction welding, structural construction welding or machinery and equipment repair welding. Welders can find employment with companies that manufacture structural steel and plate work, boilers, heavy machinery, aircraft, ships, and other metal products, and by welding contractors and welding shops. They also may be self-employed in the industry.

Details

Location: Dawson Creek Campus

Length: 28 weeks (840 hours)

Start: September 

Fees: Current Fee Schedule

Admission Prerequisites

Math – one of the following:
BC Math 10 (minimum final grade of C+), or BC Math 11 or BC Math 12 (minimum final grade of C), or equivalent.\
MATH 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
English – 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.

OR

ESTR 037 (Intermediate-Level Essential Skills for Trades) with a minimum final grade of 67%.

OR

Canadian Adult Achievement Test (CAAT):
  •        Reading Comprehension: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
  •        Number Operations: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
  •        Problem Solving: 11.0 grade equivalent or higher
  •        Mechanical Reasoning: 51/70 (6th Stanine) or higher
Based on the results of the assessment(s), applicants may be required to participate in an assessment interview to determine admissibility. Interviews may be conducted virtually if necessary.

OR

Successful completion of the NLC POWER program.

Important Notes

  1. The program is eligible for Canada Student Loans. Visit StudentAid BC to apply for financial assistance online.  Note that dual credit students are not eligible for Student Aid.
  2. A complete list of tools and equipment will be provided by Admissions upon acceptance to the program which will include required CSA approved leather boot with safety toe and shank, clear lense safety glasses and flame resistant coveralls - welders’ safety clothing, leather gloves, leather jacket or apron, welding helmet and cutting goggles.
  3.  Students are required to have a computer (laptop or other mobile device) with minimum computer requirements as listed on the NLC website (www.nlc.bc.ca/Services/Information-Technology/minPC).
  4. The information on this program page is a summary of the official Program Completion Guide approved by NLC’s Education Council. Download a PDF of the Program Completion Guide.

APPLY NOW for the Welding Foundation program

Do you need more information?
Contact trades@nlc.bc.ca

Courses