Welder Foundation

Courses

In the Welder Foundation program students will learn the following skills: occupational skills, cutting and gouging processes, semi-automatic and automatic welding, Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), Fusion and Braze Welding (TB) using Oxy-Fuel (OFW) process, basic metallurgy, and welding drawings, layout, and fabrication. The Welder Foundation program covers the competencies from Welder Level 1 and 2 apprenticeship programs under the Skilled Trades BC Welder designation. At the end of the program, students will write a standardized level exam from Skilled Trades BC that covers both the Level 1 and Level 2 competencies. Students will need to find a sponsor/employer to begin their apprenticeship to continue into Welder Level 3.

Entry Requirements

Spring 2027 Intake and Onwards

For applications to the Spring 2027 intake (January start), you must meet the following requirements:

• General Admission Requirements

Note: WorkSafe BC regulations apply to all Trades programs; students are expected to adhere to these regulations. While in the shop, all students must wear and use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) for the area in which they are working and follow the safe work procedure which applies to the task. This may include, but is not limited to CSA certified safety footwear, safety glasses, hearing protection, and any other PPE dictated by common sense and/or WorkSafe BC regulations. Students must be aware they are working in an industrial setting with potential hazards and remain aware of their surroundings at all times. If a safety concern is identified, you must report this to your instructor immediately.

Program Specific Recommendations

The following courses or their equivalent, with a minimum grade of "C":

• English Language Arts 10, or equivalent
• Workplace Math 11, or equivalent

This course includes an off-site practical experience component. The scale of this component is dependent on the state of the local economy and community partnerships.

Need help meeting these requirements? Check out our Academic Upgrading options.

CTC Option

High school students may be eligible to take this program. See your school counsellor for details.

Limited Admission

If there is room in the program, you will be accepted once you have met all the admission requirements. This is called "first qualified, first accepted". If you qualify after the program is full, you will be put on a waitlist.

Locations & Dates

CNC programs have varying lengths and start dates to meet your needs, and are offered across multiple campuses where possible. Don’t see the campus you’re looking for? Check back with us soon as this page is updated throughout the school year.

Invest in your future

The estimated cost for this program is $4,084.

• Tuition: $2,661
• Student fees: $879
• Medical/Dental Fee (Fall semester only): $260
• Tool Box Purchase: $473.70 + tax

These costs are an estimate and do not include books. Costs may change without notice. Student fees vary by campus. Check the  for more details.

Books and Toolbox for this program can be purchased from the bookstore.