Welder Upgrading

Welding involves the use of manual or semi-automatic welding equipment to fuse metal pieces together. Welders use flame-cutting, brazing and soldering equipment, melting and fusing pieces to be joined to form a permanent bond. They also use metal shaping machines such as brakes, shears and other metal straightening and bending machines.

Two separate Welder program pathways are available to students: an Apprenticeship model comprising Levels 1-to-3, with an optional Multi-Process Alloy Welding (MPAW) endorsement, and the non-apprentice model, comprising of a Foundation program followed by "Welder B and A".

Students without an employer sponsor may register in the Welder Foundation (formerly Level C) program. If they are unable to secure a sponsor they can continue upgrading in the non-apprentice pathway, Welder Level B, then Welder Level A.

Welding Level B: This program develops more advanced welding skills and related theory than were taught in the Welder Foundation program: pipe welding, gas tungsten arc welding, etc., providing graduates with a broader base of skills and more employment opportunities.

Welding Level A: This program teaches more advanced welding skills and related theory than were taught in the Welder Foundation and B Level program: pipe welding with stainless steel electrodes, low-allow steel electrodes, more advanced blueprint reading, and welding metallurgy.