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).
There is a reading week in this program typically at the end of February.
The information on this program page is a summary of the official Program Information and Completion Guide approved by NLC’s Education Council.
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
Intakes
| Location | Starting | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dawson Creek | September | Cohort |
Length
840 hours; approximately 32 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 | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 2,990.40 | $ 160.18 | $ 660.70 | $ 3,811.28 |
International Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | International Medical Insurance | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 12,357.00 | $ 168.42 | $ 760.15 | $ 289.80* | $ 13,575.37 |
*Per four months
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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.
- The program is affiliated with SkilledTradesBC, SD 59, 60, 81 and 87.
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 101 – Welder Foundation (840 contact hours)
Credential
Certificate in Welder Foundation